How to Sand Wooden Mantels for Refinishing (80–320 Grit)

Wooden mantels are a focal point in living rooms and fireplaces, but soot, scratches, and worn finishes can diminish their beauty. Sanding is the first step to bring mantels back to life, preparing them for stain, paint, or clear finishes.

Why Sand Mantels?

Sanding removes old coatings, smooths imperfections, and ensures new finishes bond properly. It also helps highlight the natural grain, making stained mantels more striking.

Tools You’ll Need

• Orbital sander for flat mantel tops
• Sanding sponges for trim, edges, and decorative molding
• Wet/dry sandpaper sheets (80–320 grit)
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Mask, goggles, and gloves

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 80 grit: Removing paint, varnish, or smoke damage.
• 120 grit: General smoothing after coarse sanding.
• 220 grit: Prepping bare wood for paint or stain.
• 320 grit: Final sanding for smooth, refined surfaces.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Clear and prep. Remove décor items and cover surrounding areas to contain dust.
2. Start with 80 grit. Use 80 grit (25-pack) to strip finishes and smooth rough patches.
3. Refine with 120 grit. Sand surfaces with 120 grit (50-pack) wet/dry sheets.
4. Prep with 220 grit. Use 220 grit (100-pack) to prepare for paint, stain, or sealer.
5. Finish with 320 grit. Lightly sand detailed trim and surfaces with 320 grit (25-pack) for a polished result.
6. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum dust and wipe with tack cloths.
7. Apply finish. Stain, paint, or seal the mantel for a refreshed look.

Special Cases

For carved mantels, hand sanding with sponges works better than power tools. For mantels exposed to soot, clean thoroughly with a degreaser before sanding.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain to avoid scratches.
• Work in sections for consistent results.
• Prime before painting to cover smoke stains.
• Use fine grits for smooth finishes on visible surfaces.

Aftercare

• Dust mantels regularly to maintain finishes.
• Reapply protective coatings every few years.
• Avoid placing hot objects directly on the mantel.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand to bare wood? Yes, for staining. For repainting, scuff sanding is often enough.
• Can I sand mantels by hand? Yes—hand sanding works best for carved or detailed sections.
• What grit is best before painting? 220 grit ensures proper adhesion and smoothness.

Watch & Learn

Sanding mantels restores elegance and enhances their durability. Stock up on coarse sheets, medium grits, and fine sandpapers for your next mantel refinishing project.