Belt sanders are a popular choice for sanding floors due to their innovative design, which makes it easier for the operator to change out the belts. These sanders also tend to leave less chatter on the floor, resulting in a smoother finish. Hardwood belt sanders are often considered a more refined tool for stripping floors down to bare or flat wood, and they are generally easier to use.

Drum sanders are a type of sanding machine that was originally designed for use on hardwood floors. These machines are known for their powerful sanding capabilities, which allow them to quickly remove finishes. They are often used for sanding gym floors and large open spaces, but they can also be used to sand residential floors. Drum sanders are considered to be reliable and hardworking tools that are essential for many hardwood flooring projects. Despite being an older design, they are still widely used by professionals in the industry.

Flooring edgers are specialized tools used to sand the edges and corners of a floor that cannot be reached by drum or belt sanders. They are smaller and more maneuverable than these larger sanding machines, making them well-suited for sanding the perimeter of a room, as well as tight spaces and corners. Edgers can be used to sand a wide range of flooring materials, including wood, concrete, and terrazzo, and are often used by flooring professionals to prepare a floor for refinishing or to smooth out rough or uneven areas. Some edgers are equipped with dust-collection systems to help minimize the amount of dust generated during the sanding process.

Buffers are a type of floor sanding machine that have been used in the hardwood flooring industry for many years. American Sanders offers buffers in various head sizes, with the most common being 16″ wide. These machines are designed to spin and sand the floor using various attachments and sandpaper types. Buffers are commonly found in schools, businesses, and other public facilities and are known for their versatility, as they can be used to perform a wide range of tasks. They are an essential tool for professionals working in the hardwood flooring industry.

Orbital or planetary sanders are a type of floor sanding machine offered by American Sanders. These machines have multiple heads that spin in different directions, which helps to create an even, smooth sand on a floor while minimizing scratches from sandpaper. They are highly effective at flattening a hardwood floor and are generally considered easier to use and master than other types of sanders because they do not cut on just one side. Orbital or planetary sanders are an important tool for professionals working in the hardwood flooring industry and are known for their performance and efficiency.