Drum Sander

Definition

A specialized walk-behind floor sander, about the size of a lawn mower, pushed along the floor's open areas.

Purpose

Drum sanders are used for sanding and smoothing large, open floor areas. They are powerful and efficient, capable of removing old finishes and leveling uneven surfaces to prepare floors for refinishing or new coatings.

Examples of Use

1. Hardwood Floor Refinishing: Used to sand off old finishes and smooth the surface before applying new stain or polyurethane.
2. Removing Paint or Varnish: Efficiently removes layers of paint or varnish from wooden floors.
3. Leveling Uneven Floors: Helps to level and smooth out uneven floor surfaces in preparation for new flooring installations.

Related Terms

• Orbital Sander: A smaller, handheld sander used for detailed work and smaller areas.
• Edge Sander: A sander designed to reach the edges and corners that a drum sander cannot.
• Belt Sander: A powerful sander used for heavy-duty sanding tasks, similar to a drum sander but with a continuous belt.

Notes

• Drum sanders require skill to operate without gouging the floor; improper use can cause damage.
• It's essential to use the correct grit sandpaper and follow a systematic sanding pattern for best results.