A perfect job has to be done with a perfect tool, and that is why finishing sanders are important in the construction and finishing process. This type of sander is used to provide a smooth surface on different materials like wood, plastic, metal, etc.
If you need to get something done as quickly as possible, we recommend that you use a finishing sander. Many people believe that a palm sander can substitute for a finishing sander, but this is not the case because palm sanders are designed for greater jobs and do not provide good finishes like finishing sanders.
Now, Let's Talk About What Is a Finishing Sander Used For?
As we said earlier, this type of sander is used to provide a smooth surface, but it can also be used for other purposes. For example, you can use it to remove paint from surfaces or varnish.
You can also use it to fix any irregularities on the surface of the wood. If you have small indentations or scratches, you can use a finishing sander to make them disappear.
Furthermore, if you are working with small pieces of wood, it is better to use a finishing sander instead of a palm sander because the former will provide you with better results.
What Is Grit How It Can Be Used?
The grit is the size of the abrasive particles on the sandpaper. The higher the number, the finer the grain. For example, the 30-grit paper has large grains while 400-grit paper has very fine grains.
You should use different grits depending on the material you are working with and the type of surface you want to achieve.
If you are working with hardwood, you should start with a coarse grit (40 or 60) and then move to a finer one.
On the other hand, if you are working with softwood, you can start with a medium-grit paper (100).
In general, the following grit order is recommended:
- 60/80/100/120/150/180/220
- 240/280/320/360/400
How To Use A Finishing Sander?
Using a finishing sander is as like as using a palm sander. The main difference is that finishing sanders are smaller and have a rectangular base.
Step-1: Choose the Right Sandpaper
As we said before, the grit you need depends on the material you are working with and the surface you want to achieve. So, make sure to choose the right sandpaper before starting your work. If you're not the pro level worker then you must go for the professional help.
Step-2: Prepare the Surface
Before using the sander, you need to prepare the surface. For example, if you are going to remove paint from a wood surface, you need to sand it first with coarse-grit paper to remove the paint and then use a finer grit to smooth the surface.
If you are going to stain the wood, you need to sand it with a fine-grit paper to make sure the stain will be even.
Step-3: Turn on the Sander and Start Sanding
Once you have chosen the right sandpaper and prepared the surface, you can turn on the sander and start working.
Remember to move the sander in different directions to avoid creating scratches or uneven surfaces.
Also, make sure to apply even pressure on the sander and don't push too hard because you could damage the surface.
Step-4: Check the Surface Regularly
As you are sanding, check the surface regularly to see if you are achieving the desired results. If not, you can change the sandpaper or adjust your technique.
Step-5: Clean the Surface
When you are finished sanding, make sure to clean the surface to remove any dust or debris. You can use a vacuum cleaner or a damp cloth. You should also clean the sander to remove any sandpaper residue.
How to Finish Sanding like a Pro- Sanding Tips
- Always use a dust mask to avoid inhaling dust particles.
- If you are working with paint, use a respirator to avoid breathing in fumes.
- Wear ear protection if you are going to be using the sander for a long time.
- Do not over-sand because you could damage the surface.
- The best way to avoid this is to sand in different directions.
- Make sure to change the sandpaper regularly to avoid clogging.
- Use fine-grit paper for the final sanding to achieve a smooth surface.
- If you want to remove paint from a wood surface, use a chemical stripper before sanding.
- Use painter's tape to avoid sanding the wrong area.
- You can also use it to create patterns or designs on the wood.
- Use a power sander for large surfaces and a hand sander for small areas.
- If you are going to be using the sander for a long time, invest in a good quality one.
Is There Any Other Use of Finishing Sander?
Yes, finishing sanders have many other uses besides sanding wood.
For example, you can use them to remove paint from a wall or ceiling, to sand down plaster, or to remove rust from metal surfaces. Besides, you can also use them to create a smooth finish on concrete or stone surfaces.
Another use of finishing sander is to remove varnish from wood. This is a common technique used by furniture refinishes.
To do this, you need to sand the surface with a coarse-grit paper to remove the varnish and then use a finer grit to smooth the surface.
You can also use a finishing sander to remove wax from a wood floor.
Should I Concern Before Buying A Finishing Sander?
Yes, you should definitely concern before buying a finishing sander because it's a one-time investment. There are many things to consider before purchasing a finishing sander such as the type of sander, the size, the power, the price, and the warranty.
Read Our Best Finishing Sander Fro Your Projects.
Conclusion:
Whether you're a beginner or a professional, using a finishing sander is a great way to achieve a smooth surface.
Just remember to choose the right sandpaper, to prepare the surface, and to sand in different directions. Also, don't forget to clean the surface and the sander when you're finished.
If you follow these tips, you'll be able to sand like a pro in no time!
Now that you know how to use a finishing sander, why not try it on your next project?
