Almost always used in the final stages of finish removal, scraping and sanding can be used as the primary tool for stripping. Strong paints like those made with epoxy usually need to be sanded off. Sanding is also the preferred tool for very delicate surfaces. Wood floors also need to be sanded with specialty floor sanders like the Varthane ezV Sander that can be rented from many home centers.
Be careful when sanding a finish, especially when using a belt or orbital sander. The sandpaper doesn't differentiate between removing the finish and sanding down the wood.
