How to Sand and Restore a Wooden Bench for Outdoor or Indoor Use (80, 120, 180, 220, 320 Grit Guide)

A weathered wooden bench can be brought back to life with the right sanding and finishing process. Whether your bench sits outside in the elements or indoors as a decorative piece, the 5-Inch 8-Hole Sanding Discs, Hook & Loop, Assorted Grit (50-Pack) provide the complete range—80, 120, 180, 220, and 320 grit—to strip away old coatings, smooth the surface, and prepare it for a fresh protective finish.

Why Sanding is Key for Bench Restoration

Outdoor benches can develop rough surfaces, splinters, and peeling finishes due to moisture and sun exposure. Indoor benches may suffer from scratches, fading, or dull finishes. Sanding with the correct grit progression ensures a smooth, safe surface that holds finish well and looks professional.

Tools & Materials

• Assorted Grit Sanding Discs (80, 120, 180, 220, 320 grit)
• Random orbital sander with dust collection
• Vacuum or shop vac
• Tack cloths
• Wood stain, paint, or exterior-grade sealer
• Brushes or applicator pads

Grit-by-Grit Process

• 80 Grit: Heavy removal of old paint, varnish, or weathered gray wood. Ideal for leveling out rough spots and removing splinters.
• 120 Grit: Smooths the aggressive marks left by 80 grit and starts refining the wood surface.
• 180 Grit: Prepares the surface for finish by evening out the grain and removing minor imperfections.
• 220 Grit: Creates a fine, consistent texture for optimal finish adhesion.
• 320 Grit: Final polish that produces a silky-smooth feel and professional look.

Step-by-Step Bench Restoration

1. Preparation: Remove any cushions, hardware, or non-wood parts. Clean the bench with mild soap and water, then let it dry completely.
2. Start with 80 Grit: Sand all surfaces to strip away the old finish and damaged wood fibers. Keep the sander moving to avoid gouges.
3. Move to 120 Grit: Smooth the rough surface left by coarse sanding, preparing it for finer work.
4. Refine with 180 Grit: Eliminate any lingering scratches and prepare the surface for detail sanding.
5. Fine Sand with 220 Grit: Achieve a uniform texture ready for stain, paint, or sealant.
6. Final Pass with 320 Grit: Lightly sand to create a smooth-to-the-touch finish that enhances the look of the final coat.
7. Clean Thoroughly: Vacuum dust from all surfaces and wipe with a tack cloth.
8. Apply Finish: Use exterior-grade sealant for outdoor benches or stain/clear coat for indoor benches. Apply according to the manufacturer’s directions.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain to avoid visible scratches in the final finish.
• For slats or rounded edges, use hand sanding to maintain the shape.
• Work in a shaded area if finishing outdoors to prevent premature drying.
• Apply two or more coats of protective finish for outdoor durability.

Aftercare for Your Restored Bench

• Clean regularly with a damp cloth to remove dirt and pollen.
• Inspect annually for wear and reapply finish as needed.
• For outdoor benches, cover or store indoors during extreme weather.

FAQs

• Can I use these discs on a metal bench frame? Yes—choose the grit based on the type of metal prep needed.
• Do I have to sand to 320 grit? For outdoor furniture, 220 grit is often enough, but 320 grit gives a smoother, more refined finish.
• Will these discs work on hardwood? Yes, they are suitable for both softwoods and hardwoods.

Watch the Process

With the 5-Inch 8-Hole Sanding Discs (50-Pack), you have every grit you need to restore a bench from rough and worn to smooth and protected—ready for years of use and enjoyment.