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Which sandpaper do I need for which job?

Whether you’re sanding manually or using a machine: The sandpaper determines the result. In this article you’ll find everything you need to know about the different types of sandpaper and usage, the technique of sanding, the various sanders and their suitability.

Whether you’re sanding manually or using a machine: The sandpaper determines the result. In this article you’ll find everything you need to know about:

What is the purpose of sanding?

Sanding is most commonly done to prepare for a painting or varnishing job. You sand to remove old layers of paint or rust, but also to roughen up the surface a bit. Paint does not attach well on a smooth surface and it’s a waste of work to end up with ugly spots.

The different types of sandpaper

To find out which sandpaper is most suitable for which job, we must first look at the available types. Sandpaper can be divided into two aspects: the material that it is made of and the coarseness of the grain.

Materials

Sandpaper consists of a layer of paper on which grinding material is attached. In the case of the cheapest sandpaper, the grinding material is made of glass particles. This paper absorbs and wears out quickly. It is actually only advisable for sanding old paint layers.

Garnet sandpaper is a better option for sanding wood. Emery paper is even more wear resistant and can be used for wood, metal and plastic. Water resistant sanding paper gives a very smooth end result. Wet sanding has the added advantage of less dust flying around in the air.

The size of the grain

  • Old layers of paint or rust removal: 60-80
  • Sanding new wood: 80-120
  • Sanding the surface of existing layers of paint which are in good condition: 120-150
  • Sanding the surface of good layers of paint: 180-220
  • Sanding between new coats of paint: 240

Show me all types of sandpaper

For a nice result you need to sand multiple times using different grains:

  1. with a coarse grain to remove old paint
  2. with a medium-coarse grain to prepare the bare surface
  3. with a fine grain between the new coats of paint or varnish

Tip: Sanding painted wood lightly can be done using fine steel wool. This doesn’t wear out, as is the case with sandpaper. You can clean it out and use it again.

The technique of sanding

Like every other job, sanding requires some preparation, regardless of the type of sandpaper you are using. You will have to clean and degrease, depending on the condition of the surface. If you do not then you will sand the dirt into the foundation.

Then you fill the holes, cracks and bumps using appropriate filling material. You do not want to be meagre due to shrink when drying. Later on you can easily sand away any excess.

If you are sanding manually, please follow these guidelines:

  • Fold and tear a sheet of sandpaper in half (use the edge of a table). Fold the halves in two, then first use one side and after that the other side.
  • Sand back and forth in a straight motion and maintain the same amount of pressure.
  • If possible, sand smoothly along the wood grain.
  • Sand narrow slits etc using a folded piece of sandpaper.

Tip: Use a sanding block. You won’t be the first person to have wrist and finger complaints after a big sanding job. You can have more comfort and control by using a sanding block (wrapping the paper around it). There are various professional sanding blocks for sale, but you can also easily create one yourself, for example by glueing a layer of carpeting onto a block of wood.

Machine sanding: which sandpaper for which job?

An electric or battery sander can come in handy when you need to do a big sanding job. There are about four different types.

Belt sander

This machine let’s the sandpaper run over two rolls. It is especially suitable for coarser work, such as removing old paint layers with a coarse grain paper.

Orbital sander

An orbital sander is the best choice for (fine) sanding of large and flat surfaces. The rectangular pad does not move back and forth, but makes a vibrating movement.

Delta sander

This machine functions similarly to an orbital sander. The difference is in the pad, which has a pointed shape like the Greek word delta. You’ll need this machine if you have to sand in tight corners.

Random orbital sander

This machine has a round sanding sole running in an eccentric motion. It is suitable for flat and somewhat round surfaces.

Sandpaper for sanders voor schuurmachine

The various sanders all require a specific type of sandpaper with the correct dimensions.

Read also: What is the best sander for your toolbox?

Safe sanding = dust-free sanding

The biggest safety risk of sanding is the dust that is released. Inhalation of paint particles and wood dust can have bad consequences. The dust particles from hardwood (for example oak floorboards or teak garden furniture) are particularly harmful. Therefore you must always use a sander that is equipped with a dust bag or that is connected with a vacuum cleaner, and you must use a dust mask for extra protection (also when you are sanding manually).

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