Today, floor sanding is fast, clean, and efficient. But go back 100 years, and the process was completely different. In the early 20th century—especially around the 1920s—refinishing wooden floors was slow, messy, and highly skilled work.
In this article, we’ll take a look at how floor sanding and refinishing wooden floors were done in the past. We’ll also compare it to the modern methods used across the UK today.
Manual Floor Sanding: Hard Work on Hands and Knees
Before electric sanding machines became common, everything was done by hand. Craftsmen would kneel on the floor and use scrapers, sandpaper, or abrasive blocks. These tools helped them remove the top layer of wood and smooth out any imperfections.
By the 1920s, early mechanical sanders started to appear. These machines were large, heavy, and hard to control. They didn’t collect dust either, so the air would quickly fill with fine particles. Cleaning up took just as long as the sanding itself.
Sanding Edges by Hand
The first floor sanders couldn’t reach corners or skirting boards. This meant the edges of every room had to be sanded by hand. Craftsmen used small scrapers or sanding blocks to get a smooth, even finish around the edges. It took time and care to blend these areas with the rest of the floor.
How People Refinished Wooden Floors
Once the floor was sanded, it was time to apply the finish. The most common products were oil-based varnishes and shellac. Shellac dried quickly and gave floors a warm, amber colour.
Finishes were applied by hand using brushes or cloths. Several thin coats were needed, and each layer had to dry fully before the next one was added. Unlike today, there were no quick-drying or water-based options. It was a slow process that required patience.
Buffing and Long-Term Care
After finishing, the floor was usually buffed by hand. People used rags, cloths, or even sacks to bring out the shine. Buffing machines weren’t widely available, so getting that polished look took a lot of effort.
To maintain the shine, homeowners used paste wax. This was applied by hand and then buffed regularly. It helped protect the floor but also meant ongoing upkeep was essential.
How Floor Sanding Has Changed
Modern floor sanding has come a long way. Today, machines are lighter, easier to use, and come with dust extraction systems. Professionals can sand a floor quickly with minimal mess.
Edge sanders now make it simple to get a clean, even finish around skirting boards. And when it comes to refinishing wooden floors, there are many durable, fast-drying options to choose from.
Even though technology has improved, the goal remains the same: to bring out the natural beauty of wood flooring.
Thinking About Floor Sanding?
If you’re thinking about floor sanding or refinishing wooden floors in your home, trust the professionals. With the right tools and techniques, we can revive the natural beauty of your wooden floors and add long-lasting value to your property. Contact us today for a free quote!