How to Sand Wooden Doors Before Painting or Staining

Wooden doors endure constant use, leading to scratches, dents, and uneven finishes. Whether repainting or staining, proper sanding ensures a smooth surface and long-lasting results. This guide covers the grit sequence, tools, and steps for sanding wooden doors like a pro.

Why Sand Wooden Doors?

Sanding removes old finishes, smooths imperfections, and opens the grain for better paint or stain adhesion. Skipping sanding can cause peeling, blotches, and uneven coverage.

Tools You’ll Need

• Orbital sander for flat panels
• Hand sanding block for edges and corners
• 9x11 in sandpaper sheets (wet or dry use)
• Tack cloth or vacuum
• Drop cloths and painter’s tape

Best Grit Sequence for Doors

• 80 grit: Removes thick paint or varnish.
• 150 grit: Smooths scratches and levels the surface.
• 220 grit: Final prep before primer, paint, or stain.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Wooden Doors

1. Remove the door. Take it off the hinges and lay it flat on sawhorses.
2. Start with 80 grit. Use 80 grit (25-pack) to strip heavy finishes and rough patches.
3. Smooth with 150 grit. Apply 150 grit (50-pack) for even leveling.
4. Finish with 220 grit. Use 220 grit (100-pack) for a silky, paint-ready surface.
5. Clean thoroughly. Wipe away dust with a tack cloth before priming or staining.
6. Apply finish. Prime and paint, or stain and seal depending on your project.

Special Cases

For paneled doors, use a sanding sponge to reach grooves. For veneered doors, avoid coarse grits—start at 150 grit to prevent sanding through the thin surface.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain to avoid visible scratches.
• Replace sandpaper often—clogged sheets reduce effectiveness.
• Use painter’s tape to protect glass inserts or decorative trim.

Aftercare

• Allow paint or stain to cure fully before rehanging the door.
• Clean with gentle cleaners to protect the finish.
• Touch up edges as needed over time.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand doors if I’m repainting? Yes—at least a light sanding with 220 grit helps new paint stick.
• What if my door has multiple paint layers? Strip heavy coatings first, then sand with 80 grit.
• Can I sand without removing the door? Possible, but laying it flat ensures even sanding and less mess.

Watch & Learn

Refinish doors the right way with eQualle’s 9x11 in sandpaper sheets, available in 25, 50, and 100 packs for wet or dry use. Shop door sanding sheets here.