Edge Sander

Definition

A hand-held power sander that can reach close to the wall at the room perimeter to complete the sanding process not accessible by the drum sander.

Purpose

Edge sanders are used in flooring projects to sand areas close to walls and baseboards that larger sanders cannot reach. They ensure that the entire floor surface is evenly sanded, providing a smooth and consistent finish.

Examples of Use

• Sanding the edges of a hardwood floor during refinishing to achieve a uniform surface.
• Reaching tight corners and spaces near baseboards in a room where a drum sander cannot fit.
• Preparing the perimeter of a floor for staining or sealing after sanding the main area with a larger sander.

Related Terms

• Drum Sander: A large, cylindrical sander used for sanding large, flat surfaces.
• Orbital Sander: A small, hand-held sander used for fine finishing and detail work.
• Floor Buffer: A machine used to polish and maintain the finish of a floor.

Notes

• Using an edge sander requires skill to avoid gouging or uneven sanding along the edges of the floor.
• Proper dust collection and ventilation are important when using an edge sander to minimize airborne particles.