I rented an orbital sander from Menards and based on their suggestions purchased 2 packs of 36 grit, 2 of 50 grit, and 2 of 80 grit sandpaper. The room is only about 100 square feet.

The floor is old and has been covered with carpet for years. The house was built in the early 1900s.

After prepping everything and starting the sander, the sandpaper gets coated in what appears to be the old varnish/finish, rendering it useless. This happens in a matter of 30 seconds or less and at $5 per pack, not very cost efficient. The images below speak for themselves:







As you can see, the floor is quite a mess. I've read many articles and watched many videos, but this is my first time attempting this. Nothing mentioned having to strip the old varnish off... but is that what's causing this issue? What can I do?

Appreciate any help - especially since I'm paying by the hour to rent this thing!

Thanks,
Carl

Its wax or wax impregnated finish..

Hire a pro... You will save money...

Thanks for the reply.

So with a wax based finish, assuming that is what's on my floor now, using a sander won't work? Would it work to purchase a chemical and strip the floor, and then sand it?

Believe me hiring out looks to be inevitable but would like to do it myself if possible.

May be your only option with the machine you have.

Its nit aggressive enough and you would also need a rougher grit.. Say 20-16grit to strip.


You can try chemical or wax strippers first and try again..
By the time you pay the days rentals, finishes. Strippers and paper... Less your own time which is worth something... You certainly won't save much if anything