13 · Floor Care

Floor Sander

Also called Drum sander · Belt sander · Hardwood floor sander

An abrasive belt or pad machine that strips old finish and smooths wooden floors ready for refinishing.

Electric (corded)

Overview

A floor sander strips the old finish off a wooden floor and levels the boards underneath, taking it back to bare timber ready to be refinished.

Refinishing hardwood floors, removing old varnish and stains, and levelling cupped or patched boards.

One rule matters more than the rest: never let the sander stand still with the drum down. It cuts fast enough to gouge a hollow into the floor in about a second, and that hollow is then in the floor for good.

Keep it moving, sand with the grain, and work through the grits from coarse to fine. Jumping from coarse straight to fine leaves scratches the fine grit cannot reach.

Best uses

Refinishing hardwood floors
Removing old varnish and stains
Levelling cupped or patched boards

Troubleshooting

Find a symptom

Chatter marks or waves in the floor

Checks to try, in order

Always lower the drum while the machine is already moving forward.
Replace a worn or loose belt.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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Belt keeps running off to one side

Checks to try, in order

Adjust the belt tracking knob as shown on the machine.

If it won't track, return it — don't keep sanding.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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Tool won't switch onShared · Electric (corded)

Likely causes

Tripped GFCI or breaker
Lock-off button
Damaged cord
Dead outlet

Checks to try, in order

Check the outlet works and reset any GFCI / RCD that has tripped.
Release the lock-off button or safety switch before squeezing the trigger.
Inspect the cord and extension lead for cuts, crushed sections or damaged plugs.
If running from a generator, make sure it's running and its breaker hasn't tripped.

A damaged cord or plug means the tool is out of service. Tag it and return it — never tape a cord.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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Keeps tripping the breakerShared · Electric (corded)

Likely causes

Circuit overloaded
Undersized extension cord
Blunt accessory

Checks to try, in order

Plug into a circuit with nothing else heavy running on it.
Use a shorter, heavier extension cord. Long, thin cords starve the motor and trip breakers.
Don't force the tool — a dull bit, blade or disc makes the motor draw more current.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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Overheating, burning smell or heavy sparkingShared · Electric (corded)

Checks to try, in order

Stop and unplug the tool.
Check the motor vents aren't blocked with dust.
Let it cool, fit a sharp accessory and let the tool's weight do the work.

Heavy sparking from the vents or a burning smell that returns points to worn brushes or a failing motor — workshop only.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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Safety

Empty the dust bag often and never leave a full bag in the building. Sanding dust containing old finish can spontaneously combust.
Wear a dust mask and hearing protection.

For electric (corded)

Inspect the cord and plug before every use. Use a GFCI/RCD outdoors or near water.
Unplug before changing blades, bits, discs or pads.
Wear eye protection, and a dust mask when cutting, grinding or sanding masonry.