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If you are planning on doing some drywall work, whether it’s patching up a hole or sanding down a rough surface, you may be wondering what grit sandpaper is best to use. The short answer is that it depends on the job you are doing. However, in general, you should start with a coarser grit sandpaper and work your way to a finer grit for a smooth finish.
Contents
What is Grit Sandpaper?
Grit sandpaper refers to the number of abrasive particles per square inch on the sandpaper. The higher the number, the finer the grit. Sandpaper comes in various grit sizes, ranging from coarse to fine, with the most common grits being 80, 120, 150, 220, and 320.
When it comes to drywall, the grit sandpaper you use will depend on the task you are performing. Here are some common uses for sandpaper in drywall work and what grit sandpaper is best suited for them.
Removing Excess Joint Compound
When applying joint compound to a drywall joint, you may end up with some excess that needs to be sanded down. For this, it’s best to use coarser grit sandpaper, such as 80 or 100. This will quickly remove any excess compound and leave the surface smooth.
Sanding Rough Spots
After the joint compound has dried and been sanded down, you may notice some rough spots on the surface of the drywall. For this, you’ll want to use a slightly finer grit sandpaper, such as 120 or 150. This will smooth out any rough spots and prepare the surface for painting or wallpapering.
Sanding Between Coats
When applying multiple coats of joint compound, you’ll want to sand down each coat before applying the next. For this, you’ll want to use finer grit sandpaper, such as 150 or 220. This will help to smooth out any imperfections and prepare the surface for the next coat.
Preparing for Painting or Wallpapering
Once you’ve applied all of your joint compound and sanded down any imperfections, you’ll want to prepare the surface for painting or wallpapering. For this, you’ll want to use very fine grit sandpaper, such as 220 or 320. This will ensure a smooth surface that is ready for painting or wallpapering.
Tips for Sanding Drywall
No matter what grit sandpaper you use, there are some tips you should keep in mind to ensure that you get the best results.
- Use a sanding block: A sanding block will help to keep the sandpaper flat against the drywall, ensuring an even sanding job.
- Use a dust mask: Sanding drywall can create a lot of dust, which can be harmful to your lungs. Be sure to wear a dust mask to protect yourself.
- Sand in a circular motion: Sanding in a circular motion will help to avoid creating gouges in the drywall.
- Wipe the surface clean: After sanding, be sure to wipe the surface clean with a damp cloth. This will help to remove any dust and prepare the surface for painting or wallpapering.
List of Grit Sandpaper for Drywall
To summarize, here is a list of grit sandpaper and their recommended uses for drywall:
- 80 or 100 grit: for removing excess joint compound
- 120 or 150 grit: for sanding rough spots
- 150 or 220 grit: for sanding between coats
- 220 or 320 grit: for preparing for painting or wallpapering
Tools to Consider Before Sanding by Hand
Did you know that there are actually electrical tools to help with the sanding process? Hand-sanding is often necessary, but these electric tools can make it easier and faster. Here are a few to consider:
Orbital Sander: This is one of the most popular electric tools for sanding drywall. It moves in a random orbital pattern and can help to reduce the amount of effort needed.
Detail finishing Sander: This tool is designed specifically for sanding drywall and is great for getting into tight corners and hard-to-reach areas.
Power Sander: This tool is ideal for larger sanding jobs, as it can cover a large area in a short amount of time. It’s also useful for removing excess joint compound quickly. This is my personal favorite. It does take some time to get used to, but as soon as you’ve mastered it, it makes the job so much easier.
No matter what type of drywall project you are working on, the right grit of sandpaper will make all the difference. Be sure to choose the right grit for the job and follow these tips and tools to ensure a smooth, professional finish.
Conclusion
Knowing what grit sandpaper to use for your drywall project is essential for achieving a smooth finish. Starting with a coarser grit and working your way to a finer grit will help you achieve the best results. Additionally, following the tips for sanding drywall will help you avoid any mistakes and ensure that your surface is ready for painting or wallpapering.
Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional contractor, having the right grit sandpaper for your drywall project can make all the difference in achieving a smooth, professional finish. By following the guidelines outlined in this article and practicing proper sanding techniques, you can achieve the perfect drywall finish every time.
Remember, safety should always be your top priority. Be sure to wear protective gear and take all necessary precautions when sanding drywall. With the right tools and a little patience, you can achieve a smooth, flawless finish that will last for years to come.
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