Stop skipping grits: the secret to a professional finish on your next project
In short: General contractor Tom Silva explains how to select and use sandpaper effectively. Learn why skipping grit levels wastes time and which sander is best for your specific task, from aggressive material removal to fine trim work.
Sanding is a process of refinement, not just removal. To achieve a smooth surface efficiently, start with a lower grit—such as 60 or 80—and progress through the levels without skipping. Jumping from 80 to 120, for instance, forces the finer paper to work harder than necessary, ultimately increasing the time required to finish the job.
Choosing the right tool is equally critical. Belt sanders are designed for aggressive material removal, while finish sanders excel at handling corners, trim, and angles. For most universal projects, a random orbit sander is the standard choice. Regardless of the tool, maintaining a clean surface between passes using a vacuum or dust bag is essential for a high-quality result.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: How to Choose and Use Sandpaper | Ask This Old House
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