How to Sand a Wooden Bench for Outdoor or Indoor Use (60–320 Grit Guide)

Sanding a wooden bench is essential whether you’re restoring an old piece or preparing a new one for finish. The correct grit sequence ensures a smooth, splinter-free surface that’s ready for paint, stain, or sealant.

Why Sand a Bench?

Benches often face rough wear, weather exposure, and surface imperfections. Sanding removes splinters, evens the surface, and improves finish adhesion for long-lasting protection.

Tools & Materials

• Orbital sander and sanding block
• Sanding sponges for curved areas
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Wet/dry sandpaper sheets
• Dust mask, safety glasses, gloves

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 60 grit: Removing old finish, paint, or heavy damage.
• 120 grit: Smoothing after coarse sanding.
• 220 grit: Pre-finishing preparation.
• 320 grit: Final sanding before applying finish.

Step-by-Step: Sanding a Wooden Bench

1. Prepare the workspace. Place the bench on a drop cloth in a well-ventilated area.
2. Coarse sanding. Use 60 grit (25-pack) to strip finishes and remove major imperfections.
3. Intermediate sanding. Smooth with 120 grit (50-pack) to remove deep marks.
4. Pre-finishing. Use 220 grit (100-pack) for an even, refined surface.
5. Final sanding. Lightly go over with 320 grit (25-pack) to prepare for painting, staining, or sealing.
6. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum dust and wipe with a tack cloth before finishing.
7. Apply finish. Choose an exterior-grade finish for outdoor benches or interior-grade for indoor use.

Special Cases

For hardwood benches, use a slower sanding pace to avoid overheating and glazing the wood surface.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain to prevent scratches.
• Pay extra attention to armrests and seat edges for comfort.
• Use sanding sponges for rounded or decorative details.

Aftercare

• Reapply protective finish annually for outdoor benches.
• Clean with mild soap and water—avoid harsh chemicals.

FAQs

• Do I need to remove all old paint? Yes, for best adhesion of the new finish.
• Can I sand a bench by hand? Yes, but a power sander will save time on large surfaces.

Watch & Learn

For a splinter-free, professional bench refinish, stock up on the right grits. Shop all wet/dry sandpaper sheets today.