3 Tips For Sanding Your Home's Woodwork Before Finishing It
While redecorating your home, you may have decided to finish the woodwork inside instead of painting it. However, you may be hesitant to start sanding in preparation for staining. If so, use the following three tips to guide you.
Select The Right Sandpaper For The Job
Before you start sanding, you want to make sure you have selected the right sandpaper for the two different phases of the preparation. The first phase is the cleaning, and the second part involves smoothing the surface.
When you first start sanding, use medium-grit sandpaper. This gives enough roughness to remove the top layer of varnish and dirt to reveal the porous wood underneath. Doing this helps with the woodwork's absorption of the stain finish you choose. Never use heavy grit during this stage, as it will gouge and tear the wood, causing permanent damage.
During the smoothing phase, use fine-grit sandpaper. The grit on this paper is small enough for fine detailing, making it possible for you to smooth out the surface and remove any rough patches left from the removal process.
Sand With The Wood's Grain
When you start sanding the wood, always go with the wood's grain. Going with the wood's natural flow increases your chances of an even surface without damaging the wood.
If the wood has wavy and uneven lines, try to go in the general direction of the grain with the medium-grit sandpaper. Then, when you are ready to smooth the surface, try to follow the waves and lines as much as possible.
Wipe The Wood Clean Using Dry Methods
After you have completed each sanding phase, use dry methods to clean away the wood dust. Since the wood is porous, you don't want to use water or a damp cloth. Any moisture can soak into the grain and remain there for several days. If it mixes with the stain or wood finish, you could end up with an uneven tone.
You can begin by using a soft brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to suck up the excess debris. Then, use a dry tack cloth to wipe away any fine dust.
Using the above tips can help you successfully sand your home's woodwork in preparation for finishing it. However, if you are still hesitant to do the job yourself, you may want to contact a painting service that specializes in wood finishing to discuss your options for having them do the work for you.
Share