Sanding Countertops Before Refinishing: Smooth Prep for Lasting Results

Refinishing countertops—whether wood, laminate, or resin—starts with proper sanding. Sanding removes old finishes, levels imperfections, and ensures new coatings bond securely. Without it, even the best sealers or paints won’t last long.

Why Sanding Countertops Matters

Countertops take heavy daily use: food prep, spills, and constant cleaning. Sanding creates a clean, smooth surface that improves adhesion and enhances the final appearance. Skipping this step risks peeling finishes, uneven color, and poor durability.

Essential Tools

• Orbital sander for flat countertop surfaces
• Hand sanding block for edges and corners
• Wet/dry silicon carbide sandpaper
• Vacuum and tack cloths
• Protective gear: mask, gloves, goggles

Best Sandpaper Grits for Countertops

• 100 grit: Strip old finish or paint, level rough spots (100 Grit (100-pack)).
• 150 grit: Smooth and refine surface (150 Grit (25-pack)).
• 220 grit: Final sanding for stain, paint, or sealer (220 Grit (50-pack)).

Step-by-Step: Sanding a Countertop

1. Clear and clean. Remove appliances and wipe down the countertop.
2. Start with 100 grit. Sand to remove old coatings, stains, or imperfections.
3. Switch to 150 grit. Smooth scratches and refine the surface.
4. Finish with 220 grit. Lightly sand for a smooth, finish-ready surface.
5. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum and wipe with a tack cloth before applying new finish.
6. Apply finish. Use stain, paint, epoxy, or sealer depending on countertop type.

Special Cases

Laminate countertops only need light scuff sanding (150–220 grit) to help primer stick. For epoxy countertops, sanding with 400+ grit before recoating ensures a strong bond.

Pro Tips

• Sand with even pressure to avoid low spots.
• Work in sections for large countertops.
• Dampen the surface before the final sanding pass to raise grain (for wood).

Aftercare

• Allow finishes to cure fully before placing heavy items back.
• Use cutting boards and trivets to protect refinished surfaces.
• Clean with mild, non-abrasive products.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand laminate before painting? Yes, sanding scuffs the surface so primer adheres.
• What grit should I use between finish coats? 320–400 grit for smooth adhesion.
• Can I use a belt sander? Not recommended—it can remove too much material too quickly.

Watch & Learn

Sanding countertops properly ensures a flawless, durable finish. Stock up on wood sanding sheets for your next refinishing project.