How to Sand Wooden Doors Before Painting or Staining (80–400 Grit)

Whether you’re repainting an old interior door or refinishing a solid wood entry door, sanding is the essential first step. Proper sanding removes old finishes, smooths imperfections, and ensures new paint or stain adheres evenly.

Why Sand Wooden Doors?

Doors collect fingerprints, scratches, and uneven finishes over time. Sanding evens out the surface, removes gloss from old coatings, and prepares the wood to accept primer, paint, or stain.

Tools You’ll Need

• Orbital sander for flat door panels
• Detail sander or sanding sponge for edges and trim
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Wet/dry sandpaper sheets (80–400 grit)
• Protective mask and goggles

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 80 grit: Stripping heavy paint or varnish layers.
• 120 grit: Smoothing surfaces after paint removal.
• 220 grit: Prepping bare wood before primer or stain.
• 320–400 grit: Light final sanding before topcoats for silky smoothness.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Remove the door. Take the door off hinges and lay it flat for easier sanding.
2. Start with 80 grit. Use 80 grit (25-pack) to strip old finishes.
3. Refine with 120 grit. Smooth the wood using 120 grit (50-pack) wet/dry sheets.
4. Prep with 220 grit. Sand with 220 grit (100-pack) before primer or stain.
5. Finish smooth. For glossy paints or clear finishes, lightly sand with 400 grit (10-pack) before final coating.
6. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum dust and wipe with tack cloth.
7. Apply finish. Prime, stain, or paint the door as desired.

Special Cases

For veneered doors, avoid coarse grits like 80 unless stripping is required—veneer is thin and can sand through easily. For exterior doors, seal edges after sanding to prevent moisture penetration.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain for a professional look.
• Use sanding sponges for curved trim and profiles.
• Check progress with angled lighting to spot scratches or gloss.
• Always clean between grit changes for consistent results.

Aftercare

• Repaint or restain doors every few years depending on wear.
• Wipe with a damp cloth to clean—avoid harsh chemicals.
• Touch up scratches quickly to maintain protection.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand if using a bonding primer? Yes—light sanding improves adhesion and smoothness.
• Can I sand doors without removing them? Yes, but it’s more difficult—removing is recommended.
• What grit is best before painting? 220 grit ensures proper adhesion without scratching.

Watch & Learn

Sanding doors is the foundation of a smooth, professional finish. Stock up on coarse sheets, medium grits, and fine sandpapers to get professional results on your next door project.