[Ian Rochester]

Bit of a side step from our normal business but we have been asked to sand down and polish some old wooden floors for a current client.  Just after some more information on the processes, equipment, costs, prices to charge, etc, before I decide to do it or subby it out.

Any help would be appreciated.

[Phild]

I would strongly recommend subbing the job out to a specialist unless: 1) you are planning on moving into this sector and you need a practice site. Even then, 2) Ensure the floor is a large open one and isn't too badly worn (which will require multiple grades of sanding belts and repairs) or 3) It's a 'personal' job for a friend who knows that they are getting a 'cost price' job as you are using it as a test area and they accept that it mightn't be perfect.

If all that puts you off yet your still keen to learn more about wooden floors why not sub it out (and of course add your 15 - 20%) but make sure your subbie knows that your going to be there while he does the job then watch, listen and learn.

[Griffus]

I did a sanding job for a friend using our Victor Airflow. This machine has a built in vac which is a must for this type of work.

Used a small power sander with same grit for edges. I used 80 grit.

Did a great job.

The problem I had was sourcing sanding discs to fit. In the end I bought these from Victor Central. Call Trevor Preece on 0121 765 2354/68. The web address is now http://www.victorfloorcare.com/

[Robert Parry]

I would agree with Phil, unless you are 100% certain that the floor does not require a lot of work, pass it on to someone who knows exactly what they are doing, go along and watch by all means, then figure if its worth being trained for. If your insurance allows this sort of procedure to be carried out, ensure that you can prove that you or your staff are competent to do the work. Sanding of wooden floors can and do go horribly wrong, and there is no cheap fix, if you insurance refuses to pay, the cost of replacing or fixing the floor could run into many thousands of pounds!

Regards,

Rob