Refinish Wooden Door with 120, 400, and 3000 Grit Sandpaper

Wooden doors endure constant use, sunlight, and weather changes, leading to scratches, fading, and worn finishes. Using 120, 400, and 3000 grit sandpaper, you can restore a smooth surface and prepare the door for a beautiful, lasting finish.

Why This Method Works

120 grit removes old finish and smooths damaged areas. 400 grit refines the wood for a clean, even finish. 3000 grit burnishes the surface for a silky, professional-grade touch before sealing.

Tools & Materials

• Wet/dry sandpaper: 120 grit (25-pack), 400 grit (50-pack), 3000 grit (25-pack or 50-pack)
• Orbital sander and sanding block
• Vacuum or dust brush
• Microfiber cloths
• Wood stain, paint, or exterior polyurethane

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 120 grit: Strip old coatings and remove imperfections. (25-pack)
• 400 grit: Smooth for finish application. (50-pack)
• 3000 grit: Burnish for a silky finish. (25-pack) or (50-pack)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Remove the door from its hinges if possible and clean thoroughly to remove dust and dirt.
2. Coarse sanding. Use 120 grit sandpaper to remove old finish and level uneven areas.
3. Intermediate smoothing. Switch to 400 grit sandpaper to refine the surface before final sanding.
4. Final burnish. Lightly sand with 3000 grit (25-pack) or (50-pack) for a smooth, professional-grade finish.
5. Apply finish. Stain, paint, or seal the door, letting each coat dry fully before applying another.

Special Considerations

For doors with decorative panels, use hand sanding to preserve crisp lines and edges.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain for the most consistent results.
• Vacuum and wipe between grit changes to keep the surface clean.
• Apply multiple thin coats of finish for better durability.

Aftercare

• Clean with a damp cloth—avoid harsh chemicals.
• Inspect yearly for signs of wear and refinish as needed.

FAQs

• Can I skip 400 grit? No—jumping from 120 to 3000 grit will leave visible scratches.
• Will 3000 grit make the door shiny? Gloss comes from the topcoat, not the sanding grit alone.
• Does this method work on painted doors? Yes—start with 120 grit to remove paint before smoothing.

Watch & Learn

Get your wet/dry sandpaper kit and restore your wooden door to like-new condition.