WHY ARE HARDWOOD FLOORS SANDED IN STAGES?
One machine and one pass cannot produce a properly prepared floor. Different equipment and progressive abrasives do different parts of the work.
REMOVE, FLATTEN, REFINE AND PREPARE.
The sequence depends on the floor, coating and target result. Professional sanding generally moves from appropriate initial cutting toward finer refinement while edges and details are blended with the main field.
EACH MACHINE HAS A DIFFERENT JOB
Main-field machine
Works across open areas to remove coating and flatten suitable flooring.
Edger and detail tools
Reach perimeter areas, corners and transitions the larger machine cannot.
Multi-disc or buffer work
Helps refine and blend the surface as the sequence progresses.
Dust collection
Connected collection and jobsite controls reduce airborne dust, though no sanding process should be promised as literally dust-free.
THE NEXT STEP MUST REMOVE THE RIGHT MARKS
An overly aggressive cut can damage a floor, while skipping necessary refinement can leave scratches or inconsistent areas visible after stain and finish. John adjusts the sequence for species, condition, flatness, coating, repairs and the intended final appearance.
THE NUMBER OF PASSES CHANGES WITH THE TARGET SURFACE
Bona publishes several sanding sequences for its own equipment and abrasives. Three examples show why “one grit” is not a complete sanding plan.
| Published method | Example grit progression | Bona’s stated use |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | 50 → 80 → 100 | Low-gloss finishes, matte or lower. |
| Standard | 50 → 60 → 100 → 120 | All finish and gloss types; also unpigmented oil or hardwax oil. |
| Color | 50 → 60 → 80 → 100 → 120 | High gloss, pigmented oil and hardwax oil. |
These are manufacturer examples, not a required Accolade sequence or a promise for every floor. Starting grit, skipped steps, equipment and final preparation depend on the coating, species, flatness and intended finish.
SANDING EQUIPMENT FAQ
Does every floor use the same grits?+
No. The starting point and progression depend on the coating, wood, damage, flatness and desired result.
Why are edges sanded separately?+
Large machines cannot reach walls and tight details. Those areas require specialized equipment and careful blending.
Is professional sanding dust-free?+
Collection systems can substantially reduce dust, but normal sanding should not be described as eliminating every particle.