Refinish Wooden Bench with 80, 360, and 1000 Grit Sandpaper

Outdoor and indoor wooden benches can suffer from weathering, scratches, and uneven finishes over time. Using 80, 360, and 1000 grit sandpaper, you can strip old coatings, smooth the surface, and prepare the wood for a new, durable finish.

Why This Method Works

80 grit quickly removes old paint or stain and levels imperfections. 360 grit refines the surface for even finish application. 1000 grit burnishes the wood for a smooth, comfortable touch before sealing.

Tools & Materials

• Wet/dry sandpaper: 80 grit (50-pack), 360 grit (25-pack), 1000 grit (100-pack)
• Orbital sander or sanding block
• Vacuum or dust brush
• Microfiber cloths
• Exterior wood stain or protective sealant

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 80 grit: Strip old coatings and remove surface flaws. (50-pack)
• 360 grit: Smooth for finish application. (25-pack)
• 1000 grit: Burnish for a refined, touch-friendly feel. (100-pack)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Clean the bench thoroughly and remove any cushions or covers.
2. Coarse sanding. Use 80 grit sandpaper to strip old finish and level the surface.
3. Intermediate smoothing. Switch to 360 grit sandpaper to refine the surface and prepare for the final sanding stage.
4. Final burnish. Lightly sand with 1000 grit sandpaper for a smooth, professional-grade finish.
5. Apply finish. Use exterior-grade stain or sealant, letting each coat dry fully before applying the next.

Special Considerations

For slatted benches, sand between slats by hand to reach all surfaces.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain to avoid scratches.
• Vacuum and wipe between grit changes to ensure a flawless surface.
• Reapply protective coating annually for outdoor benches.

Aftercare

• Keep the bench covered during bad weather.
• Clean regularly to prevent buildup of dirt and grime.

FAQs

• Can I skip 360 grit? No—jumping from 80 to 1000 grit will leave visible sanding marks.
• Will 1000 grit make the bench slippery? No—it will simply create a smooth feel without reducing traction.
• Does this method work on painted benches? Yes—80 grit will remove paint before smoothing with finer grits.

Watch & Learn

Get your wet/dry sandpaper kit and bring your wooden bench back to life.