Gel stain will sand off just fine. It’s not substantially different than regular poly, there is just pigment suspended in it. If they can sand through floors with multiple coats of paint a little gel stain is nothing.

Exactly as Hallett & Co. states, Gel stain is essentially tinted poly. A pro will have no issues sanding that all off.

"i seem to remember reading that you should never sand a gel finish."

I'd love to see the source for this claim.

Apparently there may be two types of gel stain. We've used one that is utilized just like regular liquid stain, apply and wipe. If there's a type that's applied and not wiped, it should cure just like a surface finish and easily be removed by sanding. That said, some types of finish present challenges when being sanded, but that's a part of the business.

36 grit will clean it right off.

Thank you all for your help