Sanding: For a perfectly smooth finish!
Removing material, smoothing surfaces, preparing and beautifying: sanding is one of the most versatile DIY tasks. What do you need to ensure your sanding project goes smoothly, and what's the best method? Here are our top tips for the perfect finish.
AIAIAIWhat is grinding?
Grinding is a type of machining process where material is removed from a workpiece in the form of tiny particles. As grinding is a particularly fine finishing method, these particles can be as fine as dust – so always wear a respiratory mask! Grinding has three main purposes:
- Smoothing surfaces
- Sharpening tools
- Cutting materials
Depending on the task, you will need a grinder or grinding machine, as well as grinding discs, grinding stones and sandpaper.
Which sander for which job?
Whether you're sanding parquet flooring or stripping paint from a garden gate, sanding is all about the perfect combination of sander, abrasive and technique. In theory, any sander can do any sanding job, but you should always use the optimal tool. Here's an overview:
- Belt sander: Large surfaces with high material removal
- Delta sander: Edges, corners and awkward areas
- Orbital sander: Fine finishing and polishing of flat or curved surfaces
- Sheet sander: Coarse work on large surfaces
- Angle grinder: For grinding and cutting
- Drywall sander: Smoothing walls and ceilings
- Hand sander: Very fine work and intricate corners
How to sand properly: A step-by-step guide
Every sander can be used in several ways. Using the right sanding method ensures optimal material removal with the least possible risk to your workpiece.
Dry sanding
Dry sanding is done without water, oil or emulsions as a lubricant and coolant. This allows you to achieve a particularly high rate of material removal, making dry sanding ideal for coarse work.
Wet sanding
With wet sanding, a liquid serves as a lubricant and also cools the workpiece during processing. This allows you to sand at a high speed. Wet sanding is particularly suitable for filled, painted car bodies. Wood for bathroom furniture or other wet areas is also moistened during the sanding process.
Hand sanding
An easy-grip sanding block made of cork or hard rubber and soft, fleece-based abrasives allow for precise and effective work. Hand sanders are a great choice for complex structures and hard-to-reach places. For example, you can use them to remove old coats of paint from window frames.
Belt sanding
Electric belt sanders work with a sanding belt that is guided and driven over motorised rollers. They sand large surfaces particularly quickly. This makes belt sanders ideal for coarse and preliminary sanding, as well as for removing paint from doors or gates.
Our tip: Only with the right abrasive will your sander become the perfect tool. Find out what's important in our “Sandpaper” guide.
Sanding wood in 4 steps
Tools at the ready? Let's get sanding! Our step-by-step guide for wood can also be used for other materials. If you're not sure, check out our tutorials!
Step 1: Coarse sanding
Secure the workpiece to your workbench or place it on a stable surface. Take a coarse-grit sandpaper (P40 to P80) and work along the wood grain. Make sure your movements are even and apply light pressure. Don't let the sander rest in one spot for too long.
Step 2: Dampen the wood
Evenly dampen the wood with a sponge. This will raise the wood fibres, making them easier to sand off. Let the wood dry a little.
Step 3: Medium sanding
Switch to a medium-grit sandpaper (P120 to P180). Work evenly with light pressure across the grain. Remove the wood dust and dampen the workpiece again.
Step 4: Fine sanding
For the final finish, use a fine-grit sandpaper with a grit of P180 to P400. Work along the grain until all imperfections have disappeared.
Our tip: Always keep some sandpaper in your toolbox. You can use it to quickly and easily remove things like glue residue or layers of paint.
