If your home has hardwood floors, maintaining the surface allows this valuable, beautiful feature to stand out. When the wood experiences wear, floor sanding helps rejuvenate the appearance and remove imperfections. However, this is a complex process that can be frustrating if you try to do it yourself. If you’re considering this project, below are several issues you might experience.

What Are Common Problems With DIY Floor Sanding?

1. Improper Grit

The grit on the sanding device you use refers to the size of the abrasive materials. If you start with a grit that is too fine, it won't effectively sand the floor, requiring extra time and energy. Alternatively, a grit that is too coarse can wear through layers quickly. When sanding hardwood floors, the grit should progress to finer grades gradually so that the finished floor isn't uneven or abrasive. The starting grit that you need depends on how much damage and wear the flooring features, which is hard to estimate without a thorough assessment.

2. Health Problems

Floor sanding releases wood dust into the air. If your family inhales these particles, they may cough and sneeze more frequently, as well as experience eye and throat irritation. The dust can also trigger asthma symptoms and worsen respiratory conditions, and those with sensitive skin may have a mild allergic reaction.

The stain or finish you apply can also be harmful because it releases volatile organic compounds. These substances can cause acute and long-term health concerns. Professional flooring contractors use high-quality safety equipment and sanding systems that minimize dust and harmful substances.

3. Difficult Sanding

Sanding hardwood floors requires you to pass over the surface multiple times to create a flat, smooth surface. Then, you will need a different sander to reach against the walls and corners. If the floor features scratches, you must sand deeper than normal to remove them. However, if you sand too much, the flooring will degrade, preventing you from resurfacing it in the future. 

When doing this yourself, the process can be tedious and labor-intensive without the proper tools and training. The tools available to homeowners aren't as powerful or efficient as commercial sanders, leading to a more time-consuming and strenuous process that may not produce equivalent results.

When you need a professional floor sanding contractor to restore your hardwood, contact Carl Bohlmeyer Floor Sanding in Lincoln, NE. With over 50 years of experience, this locally owned and operated company offers high-quality sanding and refinishing services. They are licensed and insured, and use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to achieve stunning results. Visit them online for more information about their services. Call (402) 423-7225 for an estimate.