Try out different models in a store before deciding. Tips: Choose between palm and pistol-grip styles according to your preference. This machine tends to be quieter and offers variable speed control so you can choose between a slower, more delicate approach and a faster, more aggressive approach. Tip: Lean this sander back at an angle when you first turn it on to avoid causing damage on first contact.Ī woodworker's favorite, this sander holds a circle of sandpaper and turns in a rotary manner while vibrating laterally to reduce the risk of unsightly swirl marks. Use this tough disk sander for sanding around the edges of a floor right up to the wall. Always sand with the grain to avoid scratches. Use both hands for better control, and keep the sander moving to avoid gouges and scratches. For best results, start with a coarse grit belt, and work progressively through finer grits to get a smooth result. Tips: Opt for a model that has a built-in dust collection device to save time on clearing up between and after each job. The larger 3 x 24-inch and 4 x 24-inch models are useful for heavier sanding of larger surfaces but are harder to control. However, a 3 x 18-inch sander is more suited for novices and DIY users.

When choosing the sander size, many professionals opt for a 3 x 21-inch model. You can also use it to gang-sand several edges at once by clamping two or more boards together. It’s also great for removing old finishes such as paint and varnish as well as reducing edges, such as those at the top of a sticking door. Tip: To remove bevels in prefinished flooring, cut across the grain at a 45-degree angle for the first two passes to flatten the floor.Īnother aggressive tool, this sander has a continuous 3- or 4-inch sanding belt that's ideal for smoothing large, flat surfaces such as wooden floors. This beast removes deep scratches quickly, but it can cause serious damage in inexperienced hands. Professionals recommend this sander for removing bevels from prefinished floors when you want to transform them into more contemporary square-edged flooring. This guide lists the main types of sanders available along with some power sander tips and tricks for their effective use.Īs the largest and most aggressive sander, this option requires careful handling and is best used for sizeable areas that need heavy sanding. Choosing the right sanding tool for your woodworking project and learning to use it properly can save you time and money.

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