Refinishing your floors can give your entire space a fresh, high-end look—but only if you use the right tool. Choosing the wrong sander can lead to uneven results, damaged surfaces, or hours of extra work. So, how do you know which sander is right for your project?
Whether you’re a DIY homeowner in the GTA or a professional on a tight schedule, here’s a clear, no-fluff breakdown to help you choose between belt, drum, and orbital sanders.
1. Belt Sander – For Fast, Aggressive Sanding
A belt sander uses a looped belt of abrasive sandpaper to quickly remove old coatings and level out rough hardwood floors. It’s powerful, and it doesn’t mess around.
Best for:
- Heavy finish removal
- Flattening uneven hardwood floors
- Speed on large open areas
Things to Know:
- Not beginner-friendly—easy to gouge the wood
- Requires strong control and focus
Looking for speed and power? A belt sander rental is your go-to when you need to strip floors fast.
2. Drum Sander – Professional Results, Heavy-Duty Work
The Duram Floor Sander is a perfect example of a drum sander—built for deep sanding and aggressive surface leveling. It uses a rotating drum wrapped in abrasive paper to grind down layers of wood with precision.
Best for:
- Deep floor restoration
- Removing years of wear
- Large square footage
Things to Know:
- Can damage floors if misused
- Best for pros or confident DIYers
Learn more about drum sanders from Family Handyman’s guide to hardwood floor refinishing.
You can also check Wood Floor Business for expert sanding tips and equipment comparisons.
3. Orbital or Square Floor Sander – Ideal for Finishing Touches
A square floor sander (also known as an orbital sander) is much gentler and perfect for fine finishing or light sanding between coats of finish. It’s ideal if you’re working on engineered wood or need a safer, less aggressive approach.
Best for:
- Smoothing between stain or finish coats
- Light refinishing
- Beginners and smaller jobs
Things to Know:
- Won’t remove thick coatings or deep scratches
- Slower but safer to use
For many DIY jobs, a square floor sander rental is the easiest and most forgiving tool.
Quick Comparison Table
| Sander Type | Power Level | Skill Level | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Belt Sander | High | Moderate | Paint/finish removal, rough floors |
| Drum Sander | Very High | Advanced | Full hardwood refinishing |
| Orbital Sander | Medium | Beginner | Smoothing, light refinishing |
Final Thoughts
Picking the right sander makes all the difference in your floor project. If you’re stripping decades-old hardwood, go with a belt or drum sander. For light refinishing or between-coat work, the orbital sander will be your best friend. Still not sure? Rent the tool that matches your exact project needs—and get expert advice when you do.
Rent a Floor Sander in Toronto Today
At Expert Tools Rental, we offer clean, powerful, and ready-to-work sanders—including belt, drum, and orbital options. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned contractor, we’ll help you choose the right tool. Contact us or Call us today or book your sander rental online—fast delivery available across the GTA!
