How to Sand Wooden Garden Furniture Before Refinishing

Wooden garden furniture weathers quickly under sun, rain, and daily use. Before refinishing, sanding is essential to restore smoothness, remove gray fibers, and prepare the wood for stain, oil, or paint. This guide explains how to sand garden furniture properly for a refreshed, long-lasting look.

Why Garden Furniture Sanding Matters

Outdoor chairs, tables, and benches develop splinters, discoloration, and rough textures. Without sanding, finishes won’t absorb evenly, leading to blotches and early breakdown. Careful sanding revives the wood and ensures protective coatings bond well.

Tools You’ll Need

• Random orbital sander and sanding block
• Sanding sponges for curves and slats
• Wet/dry sandpaper sheets (80–220 grit)
• Vacuum or blower for dust removal
• Exterior wood oil, stain, or paint

Best Grit Sequence for Garden Furniture

• 80 grit: Removes weathering, splinters, and rough spots.
• 150 grit: Smooths seating and tabletops for comfort.
• 220 grit: Final prep for stain, oil, or paint.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Garden Furniture

1. Clean first. Wash furniture to remove dirt, mildew, and old residue. Let dry completely.
2. Initial sanding. Use 80 grit (25-pack) to strip away rough fibers and damaged wood.
3. Smooth surfaces. Switch to 150 grit (50-pack) for touch-friendly seats and arms.
4. Final prep. Use 220 grit (100-pack) for a finish-ready surface.
5. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum or blow away sanding dust before applying finish.

Special Cases

Cedar or teak furniture may only need light sanding with 150–220 grit to refresh surfaces. For painted furniture, scrape peeling paint before sanding smooth. Avoid over-sanding softwoods, as this reduces finish absorption.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain for consistent results.
• Use sanding sponges for curved arms and slats.
• Apply finish immediately after sanding to protect exposed wood.

Aftercare

• Re-finish regularly: Apply fresh oil or stain every 1–2 years.
• Spot sand: Use 220 grit to smooth scratches or rough patches before touch-ups.
• Store smart: Protect furniture under cover during harsh weather.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand new garden furniture? Yes—light sanding removes mill glaze and improves finish absorption.
• What finish works best? Oils enhance natural wood; stains add color; paints provide full coverage.
• Can I use a belt sander? Only on flat tabletops—use gentler tools for curved or detailed parts.

Watch & Learn

Sanding garden furniture restores beauty and prepares wood for long-lasting finishes. With the right grit sequence and tools, your outdoor furniture will look refreshed and stay protected season after season.