How to Sand Stone and Concrete Surfaces for a Smooth Finish

Stone and concrete surfaces are durable but often rough, uneven, or stained. Sanding these materials not only improves their appearance but also prepares them for sealers, paints, or polishing. With the right grit sequence and tools, you can achieve professional results at home.

Why Sand Stone or Concrete?

Sanding removes surface imperfections, evens out high spots, and exposes a clean surface ready for sealing or staining. For decorative concrete or natural stone, sanding enhances texture and color depth. Without sanding, sealers may fail to bond, and the surface can look dull or unfinished.

Tools You’ll Need

• Angle grinder or floor sander with sanding pads
• 9x11 in silicon carbide sandpaper sheets for edges and corners
• Vacuum or water source (for dust control)
• Protective gear: respirator, goggles, gloves

Best Grit Sequence for Stone & Concrete

• 60 grit: Heavy grinding and leveling.
• 120 grit: Smoothing after initial grinding.
• 220 grit: Pre-polish refinement.
• 400 grit: Starting point for polishing finishes.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Stone & Concrete

1. Prep the area. Clean debris and protect nearby surfaces from dust.
2. Start with 60 grit. Use 60 grit (25-pack) to grind down rough surfaces and high spots.
3. Move to 120 grit. Smooth the surface with 120 grit (50-pack) for even leveling.
4. Refine with 220 grit. Apply 220 grit (100-pack) for a consistent surface before sealing or staining.
5. Optional polishing. For decorative finishes, continue up to 400 grit or higher for a satin sheen.
6. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum or rinse away all dust before applying sealer.

Special Cases

For outdoor concrete, stop sanding at 120 or 220 grit for better sealer adhesion. For countertops or decorative stone, continue up to 400 grit or more for a polished appearance.

Pro Tips

• Always use silicon carbide sandpaper—it’s durable enough for stone and concrete.
• Work in sections and keep the surface damp to control dust.
• Don’t skip grits—each step removes the scratches from the previous one.

Aftercare

• Seal stone or concrete immediately after sanding to prevent staining.
• Clean sealed surfaces with pH-neutral cleaners.
• Re-seal outdoor concrete every 2–3 years for lasting protection.

FAQs

• Can I sand concrete by hand? Yes—for small patches, use 9x11 in sandpaper sheets and a sanding block.
• Is wet sanding better? Yes—wet sanding reduces dust and helps achieve a smoother finish.
• Do I need to sand before painting concrete? Yes—sanding improves adhesion and prevents peeling.

Watch & Learn

For tough materials like stone and concrete, trust eQualle’s silicon carbide sandpaper sheets. Available in 25, 50, and 100 packs. Shop extra coarse sandpaper here.