Refinish Wooden Door with 100, 240, and 3000 Grit Sandpaper

Wooden doors can become weathered, scratched, or faded over time. Using a sanding process with 100, 240, and 3000 grit sandpaper, you can strip the old finish, smooth the wood, and prepare it for a durable new coat of paint or varnish.

Why This Method Works

100 grit removes old coatings and surface flaws. 240 grit refines the surface for even stain or paint absorption. 3000 grit burnishes the wood for a smooth, professional-grade finish before sealing.

Tools & Materials

• Wet/dry sandpaper: 100 grit (100-pack), 240 grit (25-pack), 3000 grit (25-pack or 50-pack)
• Orbital sander or sanding block
• Vacuum or dust brush
• Microfiber cloths
• Paint, stain, or exterior-grade varnish

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 100 grit: Strip old finish and smooth imperfections. (100-pack)
• 240 grit: Smooth for finish application. (25-pack)
• 3000 grit: Burnish for a silky, refined touch. (25-pack) or (50-pack)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Remove hardware from the door and clean off dirt and dust.
2. Coarse sanding. Use 100 grit sandpaper to strip the old finish and level rough areas.
3. Intermediate smoothing. Switch to 240 grit sandpaper to refine the surface before final sanding.
4. Final burnish. Lightly sand with 3000 grit (25-pack) or 3000 grit (50-pack) for a smooth, professional feel.
5. Apply finish. Paint, stain, or varnish the door, letting each coat dry completely before adding another.

Special Considerations

For panel doors, use hand sanding in grooves and corners to maintain detail.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain for a more natural appearance.
• Vacuum and wipe down between grit changes to prevent scratches.
• Use weather-resistant finishes for exterior doors.

Aftercare

• Wipe down the door periodically to remove dust and dirt.
• Reapply protective coating as needed to maintain durability.

FAQs

• Can I start with 240 grit? Only if the door is in excellent condition with minimal wear.
• Will 3000 grit make the surface too glossy? No—it will create a refined feel without excessive shine unless paired with a high-gloss finish.
• Does this work on painted doors? Yes—just use 100 grit first to remove paint before smoothing.

Watch & Learn

Get your wet/dry sandpaper kit and restore your wooden doors to their original beauty.