Best Sandpaper for Preparing Drywall Before Primer and Paint

A flawless paint job starts with properly prepared drywall. Even the smoothest joint compound needs sanding to eliminate ridges, bumps, and tool marks. The right sandpaper grits and technique create a seamless surface that primer and paint can bond to effectively.

Why Sand Drywall Before Primer?

Skipping sanding can leave visible seams, uneven textures, and dust bumps under paint. Sanding evens out the drywall compound, feathers joints, and ensures a professional-looking finish once paint is applied.

Essential Tools

• Drywall pole sander or hand sanding block
• Dust mask and goggles
• Microfiber rag or tack cloth
• Shop vacuum with HEPA filter
• Silicon carbide sandpaper sheets

Best Grit Sequence for Drywall Prep

• 120 grit: First pass to knock down ridges and high spots.
• 150 grit: Smoothing compound and blending seams.
• 220 grit: Final sanding for a paint-ready finish.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Drywall Before Painting

1. Start with 120 grit. Use 120 grit (25-pack) to remove dried compound ridges and rough patches.
2. Smooth with 150 grit. Switch to 150 grit (50-pack) to feather edges and blend seams with the drywall.
3. Finish with 220 grit. Sand lightly using 220 grit (100-pack) for a silky, primer-ready surface.
4. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum and wipe walls with a tack cloth to remove fine dust.
5. Inspect with light. Shine a work light across the wall to spot imperfections before priming.

Special Cases

For patches and repairs, repeat sanding between compound layers. On ceilings, a pole sander reduces fatigue and ensures even pressure.

Pro Tips

• Sand in circular motions for even blending.
• Don’t over-sand corners—use a sponge for control.
• Always wear protective gear to avoid breathing drywall dust.

Aftercare

• Prime immediately after sanding to lock in the smooth surface.
• Store leftover sandpaper flat and dry for future projects.
• Dispose of drywall dust properly to keep your workspace clean.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand after primer? A light pass with 220 grit can smooth raised fibers before the final paint coat.
• Can I use power sanders? Yes, but keep them on low settings to avoid gouging drywall paper.

Watch & Learn

Sanding drywall before primer is the foundation of a flawless wall finish. Explore our drywall sanding collection to get the grits you need.