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How to sand walls

A handheld sander being used on a blank wall

Overview

Sanding is easy but it's important to know a few techniques to get a great result every time. We'll show you how to use different sanding equipment and the best ways to sand.

Tools and materials

    Materials

    Steps

    1Choosing the correct sandpaper

    When choosing sandpaper, remember, the lower the number, the coarser it will be. It's a good idea to start with a 60 or 80 grade, and then a 120 to finish off. If your paper is too coarse, you can end up making deep gouges and scratches, which may need filling and sanding again.
    Sandpaper wrapped around a block of scrap wood being used to sand a wall

    2Hand sanding and electrical sanders

    You can use a plain board with paper attached and sand by hand. Or you can use electric sanders, which reduce the work. Round orbital sanders are very good on plaster walls, but on woodwork you have to be careful because they can leave marks on your wood.
    A handheld sander being used on a blank wall

    3Attaching sandpaper to an electrical sander

    Sandpaper for electrical sanders comes with Velcro backing so you can easily stick it to the sander.
    A sanding iron with specially shaped sheets of sanding paper designed to get into corners

    4Sanding blocks

    Sanding blocks are handy for corners and around cornices. Wrap a piece of sandpaper around the block and sand in a circular motion.
    Sandpaper being wrapped around a block of scrap wood

    5Sand in a circular motion

    The best motion for sanding is in a small circular motion. If you're sanding bare wood, run with the grain so you don't get scratches on the timber. Never use force or pressure on the instrument. Let the weight of the machine carry it.
    A power sander being used on a wall

    6Change paper often

    Always check your sandpaper for signs of wear. As the grit becomes clogged with dust and paint, it becomes less effective. Change your paper as necessary.
    Sandpaper being wrapped around a block of scrap wood
    Health & Safety

    Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

    Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer.