Sanding Painted Wood: Prep for Refinishing or Repainting

When working with painted furniture, cabinets, or trim, sanding is the key step before applying a new finish. Proper sanding removes flaking paint, smooths edges, and ensures new coatings adhere well. This guide explains the best grit sequence, tools, and methods for sanding painted wood effectively.

Why Sand Painted Wood?

Old paint often peels, chips, or creates an uneven surface. Sanding eliminates these flaws and provides the right texture for primer or new paint. Skipping sanding can cause premature peeling and poor adhesion.

Essential Tools

• Orbital or palm sander for large flat surfaces
• Detail sander or sanding block for corners
• Wet/dry silicon carbide sandpaper
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Primer and paint

Best Sandpaper Grits for Painted Wood

• 80 grit: Strip peeling paint and rough areas (80 Grit (25-pack)).
• 150 grit: Smooth and refine after heavy removal (150 Grit (100-pack)).
• 220 grit: Final prep for primer or new paint (220 Grit (50-pack)).

Step-by-Step: Sanding Painted Wood

1. Inspect the surface. Identify peeling paint, chips, or rough patches.
2. Start with 80 grit. Remove failing paint and level uneven spots.
3. Switch to 150 grit. Smooth transitions and prepare the surface further.
4. Finish with 220 grit. Lightly sand for a uniform surface ready for primer or paint.
5. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum and wipe with a tack cloth to remove all dust.
6. Prime and paint. Apply primer first for maximum adhesion, then your chosen topcoat.

Special Cases

For lead-based paint (common in pre-1978 homes), never dry sand—use a chemical stripper or professional removal for safety. For furniture with intricate carvings, sanding sponges or fine detail sanders are best.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain to avoid scratches.
• Don’t oversand—avoid gouging into the bare wood unnecessarily.
• Seal edges with primer to prevent future peeling.

Aftercare

• Allow primer and paint to dry fully between coats.
• Lightly sand between coats with 220 grit for smoothness.
• Use furniture pads or trim protectors to prevent chips on refinished surfaces.

FAQs

• Do I need to remove all old paint? No—only loose or peeling paint. Stable layers can be scuff-sanded.
• Can I use a heat gun instead? Yes, but be cautious—heat can scorch wood or release fumes.
• Is primer always necessary? Yes, especially when switching paint types or colors.

Watch & Learn

With the right grit sequence, painted wood can be quickly transformed for refinishing. Explore our full selection of coarse and fine sandpapers to handle every step of the job.