[Core] [55% incumbents] Buff and vacuum floors to ensure their cleanliness prior to the application of finish.
  DWAs: Clean building walls or flooring. | Clean facilities or sites.

[Core] [55% incumbents] Scrape and sand floor edges and areas inaccessible to floor sanders, using scrapers, disk-type sanders, and sandpaper.
  DWAs: Smooth surfaces with abrasive materials or tools.

[Core] [55% incumbents] Inspect floors for smoothness.
  DWAs: Inspect completed work to ensure proper installation.

[Core] [55% incumbents] Attach sandpaper to rollers of sanding machines.
  DWAs: Load materials into construction equipment.

[Core] [55% incumbents] Guide sanding machines over surfaces of floors until surfaces are smooth.
  DWAs: Smooth surfaces with abrasive materials or tools.

[Core] [55% incumbents] Apply filler compound and coats of finish to floors to seal wood.
  DWAs: Apply sealants or other protective coatings.

[Core] [55% incumbents] Remove excess glue from joints, using knives, scrapers, or wood chisels.
  DWAs: Remove excess materials from finished construction projects.

--- SKILLS ---
  Active Listening (imp:3.00 lvl:2.75) — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand
  Monitoring (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organization
  Speaking (imp:2.75 lvl:2.25) — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  Critical Thinking (imp:2.75 lvl:2.38) — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternativ
  Reading Comprehension (imp:2.62 lvl:2.38) — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
  Active Learning (imp:2.62 lvl:2.25) — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future pr
  Writing (imp:2.12 lvl:1.88) — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audienc
  Learning Strategies (imp:2.12 lvl:1.88) — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate fo
  Mathematics (imp:2.00 lvl:1.50) — Using mathematics to solve problems.
  Science (imp:1.12 lvl:0.12) — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

--- KNOWLEDGE ---
  Building and Construction (imp:4.11 lvl:4.48) — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or r
  Customer and Personal Service (imp:4.08 lvl:4.13) — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal servic
  English Language (imp:3.65 lvl:3.59) — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the mea
  Production and Processing (imp:3.31 lvl:3.22) — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and ot
  Administration and Management (imp:3.02 lvl:2.60) — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, 
  Mechanical (imp:3.00 lvl:3.71) — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and main
  Mathematics (imp:2.91 lvl:3.45) — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their appl
  Design (imp:2.84 lvl:3.33) — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of 
  Public Safety and Security (imp:2.72 lvl:2.65) — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote
  Sales and Marketing (imp:2.64 lvl:2.78) — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products
  Education and Training (imp:2.55 lvl:3.01) — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching
  Administrative (imp:2.50 lvl:2.46) — Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word proce
  Engineering and Technology (imp:2.48 lvl:2.67) — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. Th
  Transportation (imp:2.46 lvl:2.30) — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea
  Chemistry (imp:2.34 lvl:2.85) — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances a
  Communications and Media (imp:2.04 lvl:1.88) — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and m
  Economics and Accounting (imp:2.00 lvl:1.31) — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial mar
  Personnel and Human Resources (imp:1.87 lvl:1.45) — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, tra
  Psychology (imp:1.75 lvl:1.41) — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, 
  Foreign Language (imp:1.69) — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language inclu
  Telecommunications (imp:1.68 lvl:0.86) — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of te
  Computers and Electronics (imp:1.57 lvl:1.22) — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and comput
  Physics (imp:1.52 lvl:1.01) — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships,
  Geography (imp:1.43) — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, an
  Law and Government (imp:1.38 lvl:0.94) — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulat
  Medicine and Dentistry (imp:1.32) — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human i
  Therapy and Counseling (imp:1.24) — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and r
  Fine Arts (imp:1.20) — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform
  Biology (imp:1.19) — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interd
  Sociology and Anthropology (imp:1.19) — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human 
  Philosophy and Theology (imp:1.13) — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their 
  History and Archeology (imp:1.03) — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civi
  Food Production (imp:1.00) — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food

--- ABILITIES ---
  Arm-Hand Steadiness (imp:3.75 lvl:2.88) — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while hold
  Manual Dexterity (imp:3.62 lvl:2.88) — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your
  Control Precision (imp:3.62 lvl:3.00) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehi
  Multilimb Coordination (imp:3.62 lvl:3.00) — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or
  Trunk Strength (imp:3.62 lvl:3.88) — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the 
  Finger Dexterity (imp:3.25 lvl:2.88) — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or bot
  Stamina (imp:3.25 lvl:3.12) — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getti
  Near Vision (imp:3.25 lvl:3.12) — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
  Oral Comprehension (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through 
  Static Strength (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
  Extent Flexibility (imp:3.12 lvl:3.62) — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
  Oral Expression (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will unde
  Selective Attention (imp:3.00 lvl:2.62) — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distrac
  Reaction Time (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sou
  Dynamic Strength (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This inv
  Information Ordering (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according
  Visualization (imp:2.88 lvl:2.75) — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when 
  Gross Body Coordination (imp:2.88 lvl:2.50) — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together wh
  Speech Recognition (imp:2.88 lvl:2.38) — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
  Problem Sensitivity (imp:2.75 lvl:2.50) — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does no
  Deductive Reasoning (imp:2.75 lvl:2.62) — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that 
  Inductive Reasoning (imp:2.75 lvl:2.12) — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusion
  Category Flexibility (imp:2.75 lvl:2.50) — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping
  Rate Control (imp:2.75 lvl:2.62) — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in an
  Wrist-Finger Speed (imp:2.75 lvl:2.75) — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and 
  Far Vision (imp:2.75 lvl:2.75) — The ability to see details at a distance.
  Speech Clarity (imp:2.75 lvl:2.25) — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
  Perceptual Speed (imp:2.62 lvl:2.38) — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among
  Depth Perception (imp:2.62 lvl:2.12) — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you
  Speed of Limb Movement (imp:2.50 lvl:2.38) — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
  Visual Color Discrimination (imp:2.50 lvl:2.62) — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of c
  Written Comprehension (imp:2.38 lvl:2.12) — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
  Flexibility of Closure (imp:2.38 lvl:2.12) — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or so
  Response Orientation (imp:2.38 lvl:2.12) — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two o
  Gross Body Equilibrium (imp:2.25 lvl:1.88) — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unsta
  Written Expression (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will under
  Fluency of Ideas (imp:2.12 lvl:1.88) — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas
  Number Facility (imp:2.12 lvl:1.38) — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
  Memorization (imp:2.12 lvl:1.38) — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and proced
  Time Sharing (imp:2.12 lvl:1.88) — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of
  Auditory Attention (imp:2.12 lvl:2.12) — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distra
  Originality (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situa
  Mathematical Reasoning (imp:2.00 lvl:1.50) — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a prob
  Speed of Closure (imp:2.00 lvl:1.50) — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into mea
  Spatial Orientation (imp:2.00 lvl:1.25) — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know wher
  Peripheral Vision (imp:1.88 lvl:1.12) — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes ar
  Hearing Sensitivity (imp:1.75 lvl:1.38) — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch 
  Explosive Strength (imp:1.62 lvl:1.00) — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping
  Night Vision (imp:1.62 lvl:0.75) — The ability to see under low-light conditions.
  Glare Sensitivity (imp:1.62 lvl:0.75) — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
  Sound Localization (imp:1.62 lvl:0.62) — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
  Dynamic Flexibility (imp:1.50 lvl:0.50) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with yo

--- WORK ACTIVITIES ---
  Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings (imp:4.33 lvl:4.08) — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment,
  Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials (imp:4.31 lvl:2.70) — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors o
  Getting Information (imp:4.19 lvl:2.68) — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sour
  Controlling Machines and Processes (imp:4.09 lvl:5.11) — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines 
  Performing General Physical Activities (imp:4.08 lvl:4.10) — Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require co
  Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events (imp:4.07 lvl:2.77) — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or 
  Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates (imp:4.05 lvl:3.85) — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone,
  Handling and Moving Objects (imp:4.01 lvl:5.62) — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials,
  Making Decisions and Solving Problems (imp:3.90 lvl:3.41) — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and sol
  Performing for or Working Directly with the Public (imp:3.74 lvl:3.86) — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving
  Training and Teaching Others (imp:3.72 lvl:3.51) — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or tr
  Processing Information (imp:3.69 lvl:2.57) — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying
  Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment (imp:3.68 lvl:3.51) — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, an
  Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge (imp:3.66 lvl:4.38) — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
  Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work (imp:3.61 lvl:3.61) — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your
  Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others (imp:3.61 lvl:3.89) — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
  Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information (imp:3.60 lvl:2.79) — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resourc
  Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment (imp:3.49 lvl:2.73) — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, s
  Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards (imp:3.45 lvl:2.94) — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events o
  Thinking Creatively (imp:3.45 lvl:4.28) — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, syste
  Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others (imp:3.39 lvl:3.51) — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
  Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships (imp:3.38 lvl:4.06) — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and m
  Scheduling Work and Activities (imp:3.37 lvl:3.20) — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
  Monitoring and Controlling Resources (imp:3.30 lvl:3.43) — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
  Communicating with People Outside the Organization (imp:3.29 lvl:3.45) — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organizatio
  Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates (imp:3.29 lvl:3.43) — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance 
  Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People (imp:3.24 lvl:3.02) — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
  Developing Objectives and Strategies (imp:3.20 lvl:3.44) — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to 
  Coaching and Developing Others (imp:3.12 lvl:3.10) — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherw
  Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others (imp:3.09 lvl:3.48) — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, 
  Providing Consultation and Advice to Others (imp:2.96 lvl:3.19) — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical,
  Documenting/Recording Information (imp:2.95 lvl:2.45) — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in writte
  Developing and Building Teams (imp:2.93 lvl:3.15) — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team membe
  Assisting and Caring for Others (imp:2.83 lvl:2.91) — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other pe
  Analyzing Data or Information (imp:2.80 lvl:2.11) — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by break
  Selling or Influencing Others (imp:2.67 lvl:2.59) — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or
  Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment (imp:2.66 lvl:2.38) — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines,
  Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment (imp:2.59 lvl:3.14) — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to t
  Staffing Organizational Units (imp:2.16 lvl:1.88) — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organ
  Working with Computers (imp:2.01 lvl:1.86) — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to progra
  Performing Administrative Activities (imp:1.94 lvl:1.71) — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files

--- WORK STYLES ---
  Attention to Detail (imp:2.11) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Dependability (imp:2.06) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Dependability (imp:2.00) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Cautiousness (imp:1.38) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Attention to Detail (imp:1.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Perseverance (imp:0.95) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Achievement Orientation (imp:0.75) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Stress Tolerance (imp:0.53) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Integrity (imp:0.51) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Self-Control (imp:0.46) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Self-Confidence (imp:0.37) — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Sincerity (imp:0.06) — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Initiative (imp:0.01) — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Innovation () — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Achievement Orientation () — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Intellectual Curiosity () — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Tolerance for Ambiguity () — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Initiative () — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Adaptability () — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Self-Confidence () — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Perseverance () — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Leadership Orientation () — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Humility () — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Sincerity () — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Empathy () — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Cooperation () — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Optimism () — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Social Orientation () — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Cautiousness () — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Integrity () — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Stress Tolerance () — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Self-Control () — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Cooperation (imp:-0.01) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Optimism (imp:-0.01) — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Adaptability (imp:-0.06) — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Empathy (imp:-0.16) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Innovation (imp:-0.18) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Intellectual Curiosity (imp:-0.28) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Social Orientation (imp:-0.37) — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Humility (imp:-0.40) — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Leadership Orientation (imp:-0.59) — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Tolerance for Ambiguity (imp:-0.61) — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.

--- TRANSFERABLE SKILLS ---
  Operation and Control (imp:3.12 lvl:2.75) — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
  Coordination (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
  Operations Monitoring (imp:2.88 lvl:2.50) — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working pr
  Time Management (imp:2.88 lvl:2.62) — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
  Complex Problem Solving (imp:2.75 lvl:2.50) — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and ev
  Quality Control Analysis (imp:2.62 lvl:2.38) — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate
  Judgment and Decision Making (imp:2.62 lvl:2.25) — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the m
  Service Orientation (imp:2.50 lvl:2.25) — Actively looking for ways to help people.
  Social Perceptiveness (imp:2.38 lvl:2.00) — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
  Equipment Maintenance (imp:2.25 lvl:2.00) — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind o
  Persuasion (imp:2.12 lvl:1.75) — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
  Instructing (imp:2.12 lvl:2.12) — Teaching others how to do something.
  Equipment Selection (imp:2.12 lvl:1.75) — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
  Troubleshooting (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
  Repairing (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
  Negotiation (imp:2.00 lvl:1.62) — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
  Systems Analysis (imp:2.00 lvl:1.38) — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, 
  Systems Evaluation (imp:2.00 lvl:1.25) — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed 
  Management of Personnel Resources (imp:1.88 lvl:1.62) — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best 
  Management of Material Resources (imp:1.62 lvl:0.75) — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materi
  Operations Analysis (imp:1.38 lvl:0.38) — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
  Technology Design (imp:1.38 lvl:0.38) — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
  Management of Financial Resources (imp:1.38 lvl:0.38) — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for the
  Installation (imp:1.00) — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
  Programming (imp:1.00) — Writing computer programs for various purposes.

--- NATIONAL WAGES ---
  total_employment : 3,720
  annual_median    : $50,440
  annual_pct10     : $37,070
  annual_pct25     : $41,600
  annual_pct75     : $59,620
  annual_pct90     : $70,340
  annual_mean      : $52,460
  hourly_median    : $24.25

--- GEOGRAPHIC DISPERSION ---
  highest_state    : Utah ($74,240)
  lowest_state     : Puerto Rico ($21,980)
  dispersion_ratio : 3.378x

--- TOP STATES BY WAGE (24 total) ---
  Construction                             emp:    3,430  median: $  51,980
  Retail Trade                             emp:      100  median: $  46,450
  Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp:       90  median: $  37,620
  Manufacturing                            emp:       60  median: $  38,590

--- TOP INDUSTRIES BY EMPLOYMENT (4 total) ---
  Construction                             emp:    3,430  median: $  51,980
  Retail Trade                             emp:      100  median: $  46,450
  Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp:       90  median: $  37,620
  Manufacturing                            emp:       60  median: $  38,590

exact_match_status : found
matched_title      : Floor sanding
match_score        : 0.6000
wikidata_qid       : Q5460177
word_count         : 900
wikipedia_url      : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Floor_sanding
license            : CC BY-SA 4.0
fetched_at         : 2026-06-02T22:38:32.055519Z

--- WIKIPEDIA FULL TEXT ---
Floor sanding is the process of removing the top surfaces of a wooden floor by sanding with abrasive materials.
A variety of floor materials can be sanded, including timber, cork, particleboard, and sometimes parquet. Some floors are laid and designed for sanding. Many old floors are sanded after the previous coverings are removed and suitable wood is found hidden beneath. Floor sanding usually involves three stages: preparation, sanding, and coating with a protective sealant.


== Drum sander machines ==

All modern sanding projects are completed with specialized sanding machines. Drum sander machines come in two versions. There are 120 V and 240 V floor sanders. 240 V drum sanders are more powerful and remove more wood material than the 120 V machine. Most homeowners who want to refinish their floors themselves use the 120 V version as they are more readily available at tool rental stores. Belt sanders are preferred for the continuous sandpaper belt design to prevent sanding machine marks in floors. Feathering is an industry term used by handling the machine in such a way as to avoid deep scratch marks during start and finish. The belt sander was invented by Eugen Laegler in 1969 out of Güglingen, Germany. 90% of the area can be reached with the belt/drum sander. The remaining 10% left such as edges, corners, under cabinets, and stairs, are sanded by an edge sanding machine. A rotary machine known as a multi disc sander or buffer is then used for the final sanding steps. The buffers take abrasive discs, which rotate in same plane is the floor itself. The power of the stripping relies on the weight of the machine and therefore can be useful for surface treatments like buffing, light sanding or stripping old sealants. In the belt sanders the abrasive material is fitted and secured tight between a drum and a tension device. The belt moves vertically, along the grain of the floor surface, which assures a powerful stripping, good finish and a lasting abrasive. In drum sanders it is fitted just around the drum itself, which is less secure and retains a risk of leaving marks on a newly sanded surface.
A buffing machine is used also in the final stages of wood floor refinishing. This is a rotary machine with attached fine abrasives which helps remove differences between the vertical and horizontal circulations of the sanding drums and the disk of the edging machines. These fine abrasives also help to smooth the final finish by removing minor imperfections on the surface prior and between re-coatings.


== Process ==
 

Preparation is the first stage of the wood floor sanding process. All nails which protrude above the boards are punched down.  Nails can severely damage the sanding machines which are being used. Staples or tacks used to fasten previous coverings (if any) are removed to reduce the possibility of damage. Some brands or types of adhesives which have been used to secure coverings may need to be removed. Some adhesives, oils, and varnishes, will clog sandpaper and can even make sanding impossible.
After the floor is prepared, the sanding begins. The first cut is done with coarse-grit sandpaper to remove old coatings and to make the floor flat. The best method when using a drum sander is to start out with a lower grit belt sandpaper. For oak, maple, and ash hardwoods, It is recommended to start with 40 grit, then with each subsequent sanding pass, go up in sandpaper grit e.g. 60, 80, and finish with 100 grit. When wood floor planks are warped, cupped, or significantly uneven, it may require multiple passes. The differences in height between the boards are flattened uniformly. The large sanders are used across the grain of the timber. The most common paper used for the first cut is 40 grit. The areas which cannot be reached by the large sanders are sanded by an edger, at the same grit paper as the rest of the floor. If filling of holes or boards is desired this is the stage where this is usually done. 80 grit papers are usually used for the second cut. The belt sander is used inline with the grain of the timber in this cut. A finishing machine is then used to create the final finish. The grit paper used is of personal preference, however 100-150 grit papers are usually used.
The sanded floor is coated with polyurethane, oils, or other sealants.  If it is an oil-based sealant, then it is highly poisonous, having a high volatile organic compound content, so wearing a suitable respirator mask is recommended.


== Issues ==
Sanding removes all patina, and can change the character of old floors. The result does not always suit the character of the building.
Sanding old boards sometimes exposes worm-eaten cores, effectively ruining the floor's appearance.  This can reduce the sale price, or even cause the floor to require replacement.
Sanding removes material, and timber floors have a limit to how much they can be sanded.
Improper sanding, often caused by using an inferior sanding machine,  can lead to 'chatter marks'. These occur when the sander has not been correctly positioned over the area to be sanded, the edge of the sander catches and creates a rippling effect over the wood or parquet floor.
Often these marks can only be discerned after the stain or sealant has been applied.


== References ==

--- SEMANTIC NEIGHBORS (5) ---

  Title: Bernie Sanders (similarity: 0.4390)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bernie_Sanders
  QID: Q359442
  Extract: Bernard Sanders is an American politician and activist serving as the senior United States senator from Vermont, a seat he has held since 2007. He is the longest-serving independent in U.S. congressional history, but maintains a close relationship with the Democratic Party, having caucused with Hous

  Title: Random orbital sander (similarity: 0.4167)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Random_orbital_sander
  QID: Q2455671
  Extract: A random orbital sander is a hand-held power tool which sands in a random-orbit action—that is, in constant irregular overlapping circles. This technology was first commercially utilized in 1968 by Rupes Tools. Random orbital sanders combine the speed and aggressiveness of a belt sander with the abi

  Title: Deion Sanders (similarity: 0.4500)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deion_Sanders
  QID: Q954184
  Extract: Deion Luwynn Sanders Sr., commonly known as Deion Sanders, is an American football coach and former player who is the head football coach at the University of Colorado Boulder. Nicknamed "Prime Time" and "Coach Prime", he played in the National Football League (NFL) for 14 seasons with the Atlanta F

  Title: List of current United States senators (similarity: 0.1231)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_current_United_States_senators
  QID: Q2297935
  Extract: The United States Senate consists of 100 members, two from each of the 50 states. This list includes all senators serving in the 119th United States Congress.

  Title: Finisher (similarity: 0.4571)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finisher
  QID: Q1417269
  Extract: Finisher may refer to:Finisher (wrestling), a move in professional wrestling
Asphalt finisher or Paver
The Finisher (series), also known as Vega Jane, a book series by David Baldacci
The Finisher (novel), the first book in the series
The Finishers, a 2013 French film
Finisher, a device for post-prin

model_pass1          : claude-sonnet-4-20250514
model_pass2          : claude-haiku-4-5-20251001
inference_confidence : high
confidence_notes     : Strong data foundation with detailed O*NET work activities, clear wage data from BLS OEWS May 2025, and direct Wikipedia match confirming occupation definition.
inferred_at          : 2026-06-03T23:17:28.227350+00:00
tokens_input         : 4,603
tokens_output        : 4,222
cost_usd             : $0.045133
wikipedia_used       : True
wikipedia_title      : Floor sanding
wikipedia_note       : The Wikipedia entry for 'Floor sanding' directly describes the core process of removing top surfaces of wooden floors by sanding with abrasive materials, aligning perfectly with this occupation's primary function.

--- PROSE FIELDS ---

ROLE SUMMARY:
Floor Sanders and Finishers are skilled construction trade workers who restore and refinish wooden floors using specialized sanding equipment and finishing materials. They scrape, sand, and apply protective coatings to achieve smooth, sealed surfaces in residential and commercial buildings. This physically demanding occupation requires precision with power tools and attention to detail to deliver high-quality flooring results.

DAY IN THE LIFE:
Floor sanders begin by preparing work areas and inspecting floors to determine the appropriate sanding approach. They operate floor sanding machines to smooth surfaces, carefully guiding equipment to avoid gouges or uneven areas. Hand tools like scrapers and disk sanders are used to reach edges and corners inaccessible to larger machines. After sanding, they vacuum and buff floors to remove all debris before applying filler compounds and multiple coats of protective finish. Workers must monitor their equipment continuously, replace sandpaper as needed, and inspect completed work to ensure smoothness and proper finish application.

WHO THRIVES:
Successful floor sanders possess strong manual dexterity and arm-hand steadiness to control precision sanding equipment effectively. They demonstrate excellent attention to detail and dependability, as small mistakes can require extensive rework. Physical stamina and trunk strength are essential for operating heavy equipment and working in bent or kneeling positions for extended periods. Workers who thrive enjoy realistic, hands-on tasks and take pride in transforming worn floors into beautiful finished surfaces. Good coordination and the ability to work independently while following detailed procedures are crucial for success.

CAREER ENTRY:
Most floor sanders enter the field with less than a high school diploma (46.6%) or a high school diploma (34.6%), with some obtaining post-secondary certificates in construction trades (16.4%). Entry typically involves on-the-job training as helpers or apprentices, learning to operate sanding equipment and apply finishes under experienced supervision. The Job Zone 2 classification indicates that some preparation is needed, usually gained through several months of hands-on training.

CAREER TRAJECTORY:
Floor sanders can advance to supervisory roles overseeing flooring crews or establish their own floor refinishing businesses. Career progression may lead to broader flooring specializations, including installation of various floor types or general contracting. Some workers transition to related construction trades such as furniture finishing, terrazzo work, or other surface finishing specialties that leverage their sanding and coating expertise.

MARKET INTELLIGENCE:
Floor Sanders and Finishers earn a median annual wage of $50,440 according to BLS OEWS May 2025, with the 10th to 90th percentile range spanning $37,070 to $70,340. The occupation employs 3,720 workers nationally, concentrated heavily in construction (3,430 workers). Geographic wage variation is substantial, with Utah offering the highest wages at $74,240 versus Puerto Rico's $21,980, representing a 3.38x ratio. The relatively small employment base suggests a specialized niche within the broader construction trades sector. Demand is tied to residential renovation cycles and commercial building maintenance needs.

AUTOMATION OUTLOOK:
Floor sanding faces moderate automation risk as the work requires precise control and adaptation to varying floor conditions that current robotic systems struggle to handle. While some automated sanding equipment exists, the need to navigate around obstacles, assess surface conditions, and apply professional judgment for finish application provides protection against full automation. The hands-on nature of edge work and detail finishing particularly resists technological replacement.

--- REASONED EDGES ---
  [skill_overlap] Floor Layers, Except Carpet, Wood, and Hard Tiles (47-2042.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both roles require building and construction knowledge (4.1-4.5 importance) and manual dexterity for precision floor work.
    data: Building and Construction knowledge
    data: Manual Dexterity abilities
    data: Related occupation designation
  [task_similarity] Furniture Finishers (51-7021.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both occupations apply protective finishes and coatings to wood surfaces, requiring similar finishing techniques and materials knowledge.
    data: Apply filler compound and coats of finish
    data: Production and Processing knowledge
    data: Related occupation designation
  [riasec_cluster] Terrazzo Workers and Finishers (47-2053.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both roles have strong Realistic orientation (R:7.00) emphasizing hands-on work with tools and materials in construction settings.
    data: RIASEC R:7.00
    data: Construction industry employment
    data: Related occupation designation
  [task_similarity] Grinding and Polishing Workers, Hand (51-9022.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both roles involve smoothing surfaces with abrasive materials and require similar control precision and manual dexterity abilities.
    data: Smooth surfaces with abrasive materials
    data: Control Precision abilities (3.6 importance)
    data: Manual Dexterity abilities
  [job_zone] Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers (47-2051.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both occupations are Job Zone 2 requiring some preparation and involve finishing surfaces to achieve smooth, professional results.
    data: Job Zone 2 classification
    data: Surface finishing tasks
    data: Construction industry employment

--- NORMALIZER SIGNALS ---
  match_keywords   : ['floor sander', 'floor finisher', 'hardwood finisher', 'floor refinisher', 'floor sanding', 'wood floor', 'floor finishing', 'sanding machine']
  exclude_keywords : ['carpet installer', 'tile setter', 'drywall', 'painter', 'furniture']
  title_patterns   : ['*floor sand*', '*floor finish*', '*hardwood*', '*refinish*', '*sander*']
  common_variations: ['Floor Sander and Finisher', 'Hardwood Floor Finisher', 'Floor Refinisher', 'Floor Mechanic', 'Floor Renovator', 'Hardwood Finisher', 'Floor Surfacer', 'Floorer']

total_terms    : 40
top_words      : ['tendency', 'others', 'sanding', 'floor', 'equipment', 'sanders', 'materials', 'machines', 'principles', 'floors', 'control', 'includes', 'objects', 'machine', 'sander', 'finish', 'ideas', 'tools', 'techniques', 'hand']
source_layers  : onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference

TERM                    COUNT     FREQ  DOMINANT SOURCE      SOURCE BREAKDOWN
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
tendency                   42  0.01348  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
others                     38  0.01219  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
sanding                    35  0.01123  wikipedia            wikipedia:63%  inference:31%  onet_tasks:6%
floor                      33  0.01059  wikipedia            wikipedia:58%  inference:36%  onet_tasks:6%
equipment                  31  0.00995  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:74%  inference:23%  dwas:3%
sanders                    26  0.00834  wikipedia            wikipedia:65%  inference:27%  onet_tasks:8%
materials                  18  0.00578  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:56%  dwas:22%  wikipedia:11%
machines                   17  0.00546  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:41%  wikipedia:35%  onet_tasks:12%
principles                 16  0.00513  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
floors                     15  0.00481  wikipedia            wikipedia:40%  inference:33%  onet_tasks:27%
control                    14  0.00449  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:86%  inference:14%
includes                   13  0.00417  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:92%  wikipedia:8%
objects                    12  0.00385  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
machine                    12  0.00385  wikipedia            wikipedia:83%  onet_dimensions:17%
sander                     12  0.00385  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
finish                     11  0.00353  wikipedia            wikipedia:55%  inference:27%  onet_tasks:18%
ideas                      11  0.00353  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
tools                      10  0.00321  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:50%  dwas:20%  inference:20%
techniques                 10  0.00321  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
hand                       10  0.00321  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:70%  inference:20%  wikipedia:10%
body                       10  0.00321  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
grit                       10  0.00321  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
surfaces                    9  0.00289  inference            inference:44%  onet_tasks:22%  dwas:22%
problems                    9  0.00289  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
needs                       9  0.00289  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:89%  inference:11%
procedures                  9  0.00289  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:89%  inference:11%
construction                9  0.00289  inference            inference:56%  onet_dimensions:22%  dwas:22%
resources                   9  0.00289  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
needed                      9  0.00289  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:78%  inference:22%
quickly                     9  0.00289  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
activities                  9  0.00289  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
actions                     9  0.00289  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:89%  wikipedia:11%
orientation                 9  0.00289  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
belt                        9  0.00289  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
sandpaper                   8  0.00257  wikipedia            wikipedia:62%  onet_tasks:25%  inference:12%
wood                        8  0.00257  wikipedia            wikipedia:75%  onet_tasks:25%
attention                   8  0.00257  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:75%  inference:25%
monitoring                  8  0.00257  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
effectively                 8  0.00257  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:75%  wikipedia:12%  inference:12%
rules                       8  0.00257  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%