What Sandpaper Grit to Remove Paint from Wood?

Last Updated on July 25, 2023 by Ernest Godia

Removing the old paint is crucial when refinishing a painted wood surface, such as a piece of furniture or floor. Sanding is one of the most effective ways to remove paint from wood, but you must choose the right sandpaper grit to achieve optimal results. 

Sandpaper grit is the number of abrasive particles per square inch on the paper’s surface. Lower grit numbers signify coarser abrasives, while higher numbers indicate finer ones.

This article looks at sandpaper grit to remove paint from wood surfaces to guide you in selecting the appropriate one. 

What Grit Sandpaper to Remove Paint from Wood?

The best grit sandpaper for removing paint from wood depends on the condition and the desired finish. However, coarse grits (40-80 grit) sandpapers are generally recommended for removing thick layers of paint, while medium grits (80-120 grit) are ideal for removing moderately thick paint layers from wood surfaces.

Here are some general guidelines for using different sandpaper grits to remove paint from wood surfaces:   

• Coarse Grits (60 to 80): These grits are best for removing thick layers of paint or rough surfaces quickly. However, they may leave scratches, so follow up with finer grits for a smoother result.
• Medium Grits (100 to 150): These grits strike a balance between removing paint from wood and surface smoothness. They are suitable for removing moderately thick paint layers from wood surfaces.
• Fine Grits (180 to 220): Fine grits are used for final sanding, giving the wood a smooth and paint-ready surface. They are not recommended for removing paint from wood as they get clogged fast. Instead, use them to prep the wood for repainting. 

Tools for Sanding Paint off Wood Surfaces 

Various tools can be used to sand wood surfaces to remove paint. The appropriate choice of tool depends on the size of the project and personal preferences. Here are the common tools for sanding paint from wood surfaces. 

1. Handheld Sandpaper Sheets

Handheld sandpaper sheets are economical and suitable for small projects. They provide better control over the sanding process.

2. Sanding Blocks

Sanding blocks are useful for maintaining a flat and even surface while sanding. They can be used with sandpaper sheets or rolls.

3. Orbital Sander

An orbital sander is a power tool that moves the sandpaper in small orbital motions. It’s suitable for larger projects and provides even sanding results.

4. Detail Sander

A detail sander is designed for intricate work and hard-to-reach areas. It’s perfect for precision removing paint from wood.

5. Sanding Sponge

A sanding sponge is a flexible and convenient option for hand sanding. It’s great for curved surfaces and corners.

How to Remove Paint from Wood by Sanding 

Now that you know what grit sandpaper to remove paint from wood with, it is time to go over the step-by-step procedure for completing the task. 

But first, here is the list of tools and materials you will need to remove paint from wood: 

• Coarse-grit sandpaper 
• Medium-grit sandpaper 
• Protective hand gloves 
• Respirator mask 
• Goggles 
• Vacuum  
• Dish soap and water  
• Clean rags or towel

How to sand paint from wood step by step 

Once you have the required supplies, follow the steps below to complete the project. Start by preparing the workspace and covering it with a drop cloth to collect the sanding dust. You may also move any objects in your way while working. 

Step 1. Prepare the wood surface

Before you begin sanding, properly preparing the wood surface is essential. Remove any debris or hardware, including nails, that might stand in your way while sanding the wood surface. 

If you are dealing with wood furniture, the hardware to remove may include knobs, hinges, or handles, depending on the design. 

Step 2. Clean the wood surface 

Thoroughly clean the painted surface with degreasing cleaner, dish soap, or household cleaner and allow it to dry.

Consider placing the cleaned wood in a warm or well-ventilated area for quicker drying.  

Step 3. Select the right grit sandpaper 

Start with coarse grit (60 or 80) sandpaper to remove paint effectively. This grit sandpaper does an excellent job of removing much of the paint from the wood surface but not all of it.

Trying to remove all the paint with coarse grit sandpaper may end up gouging the wood and damaging the surface. So, we recommend switching to medium (100 to 150) grit sandpaper once much of the paint is gone.

If you intend to repaint or refinish the wood, you will need to use fine (180 to 220) grit sandpaper for final sanding. Find grit sandpaper helps you achieve a polished surface that is ready for a new coat of paint.

Step 4. Sand it with coarse grit sandpaper 

Use a coarse 40 to 60-grit sandpaper for the first sanding to remove as much of the paint from wood as possible. Take care not to gouge the wood surface. Instead, stop sanding with coarse grit sandpaper as soon as you reach the wood surface. 

Step 5. Sand it with medium grit sandpaper 

Switch to a finer 80-120 grit sandpaper in a manual hand sander or power sander to remove the remaining paint. 

You should notice that coarse sanding leaves some visible paint on the wood. Sanding with finer grits lets you remove this remaining paint, leaving a clean wood surface. 

Use enough pressure to remove the paint and maintain it to avoid damaging the wood. Applying too much pressure while sanding will likely dig into the wood surface, damaging it. 

If you are using a power sander, consider switching to hand sanding for the edges and curved areas of the wood. You may use a sanding sponge for better reach.

What Grit Sandpaper to Remove Paint from Wood Floor?

Coarse to fine-grit sandpaper is generally recommended for removing paint from wood floors. Select a range of grits from coarse to fine, such as 40 to 80 grit for initial paint removal, then switch to medium 100-grit sandpaper for the final sanding and smoothing. You could also use fine-grit sandpaper for finishing touches if you intend to refinish the floor.

Note that before you begin removing paint from wood, it’s crucial to prepare the work area and gather the necessary materials. You’ll need the following:

1. Safety Gear: Wear safety goggles, a dust mask, and protective clothing to safeguard against dust and debris.
2. Drop Cloths: Lay down drop cloths to catch paint dust and protect surrounding areas.
3. Sanding Tools: Depending on the floor’s size and condition, choose between a drum sander, orbital sander, or sanding block.

Step-by-Step Guide to Remove Paint from Wood Floor

Now that you have the right sandpaper grits follow these step-by-step instructions to remove paint from your wood floor:

Step 1: Preparation

Clear the room by removing movable furniture and any objects that might restrict your movement. Next, clean the floor by sweeping or vacuuming to remove any dust or debris.

Step 2: Initial Sanding

Attach the coarse grit sandpaper to your chosen sander and use it to sand the floor in the direction of the wood grain to avoid scratches. Focus on areas with more paint layers until the floor surface appears even.

Step 3: Smoothing the Surface

Replace the sandpaper with medium grit sandpaper and sand the floor again, ensuring you cover the entire surface evenly. The floor should now feel smoother and ready for finer sanding.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

Switch to fine-grit sandpaper and sand the floor once more. Pay close attention to any remaining paint spots or rough patches. For the final touches, use extra-fine grit sandpaper to achieve a polished finish.

Step 5: Clean Up

After sanding, clean the floor thoroughly to remove all dust and debris. Use a damp cloth or mop to wipe the surface clean. 

What Grit Sandpaper to Remove Paint from Wood Furniture?

To remove paint from wood furniture, start with a coarse 40 to 80-grit sandpaper if the furniture has thick layers of paint. However, medium 80-120 grit sandpaper should be suitable for initial sanding to remove paint from wood furniture before switching to finer grits for final touches.

Sanding Techniques for Removing paint from wood

Knowing how to sand properly can improve your results and prevent damage to the wood when removing paint. Here are some proper sanding techniques to observe when removing paint from wooden surfaces.

• Hold the sandpaper firmly but gently. 
• Sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid creating unsightly scratches. 
• Apply even pressure and use long, smooth strokes to remove paint from the wood surface uniformly.
• Wrap your sandpaper around a sanding sponge or use a small piece of sandpaper for hand-sanding when removing paint from intricate or curved areas of the wood.
• Use hand sanding for smaller projects and power sanding to remove paint from larger wood surfaces. 
• Use a detail sander or sandpaper wrapped around a small dowel or cotton swab to target specific spots with stubborn paint without affecting the rest of the wood surface.
• Consider using a vacuum attachment or a dust collection system to minimize dust and keep your workspace clean.
• Regularly inspect the sanded surface to gauge your progress. Look for any remaining paint or rough patches that need further attention. Adjust your sanding technique and sandpaper grit accordingly.
• Perform a final hand sanding with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out any remaining imperfections and get the wood ready for staining or repainting.

Recommended read: What sandpaper grit for wood before painting?

Choosing the Grit Sandpaper to Remove Paint from Wood 

When selecting the right grit sandpaper to remove paint from wood, there are several things to consider. The condition of the wood and the desired finish of the wood are important factors to consider.

Here are additional factors determining the appropriate sandpaper grit for removing paint from wood surfaces. 

1. The number of paint layers to remove 

If you have multiple layers of paint to remove, it’s best to start with a coarser grit, as it will help strip away the bulk of the paint more efficiently. Grits in the range of 40 to 60 are suitable for initial sanding to remove paint from heavily painted wood surfaces.

2. The type of paint to remove 

Different paint types may require varying levels of abrasiveness for successful removal. Latex paint is generally easier to remove than oil-based paint. 

To remove latex paint from wood, starting with medium grit sandpaper, such as 80 to 100, may suffice. On the other hand, oil-based paint might require coarser grits initially, followed by medium and fine grits for optimal results.

3. Hardness of the wood 

Softer woods and harder woods may respond differently to sanding, so it’s essential to take the wood type into account. 

For softer woods, it’s advisable to start with a finer grit to avoid excessive material removal. For harder woods, you may begin with a coarser grit to facilitate more effective paint removal from the wood.

Alternative Methods for Removing Paint from Wood  

While sanding is the most effective way to remove old paint from wood surfaces, you can also strip down the paint or soften it with heat.

• Chemical Paint Strippers. These are effective for removing paint from wood but should be used with caution due to their toxic nature. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
• Heat Guns. Heat guns can soften the paint, making it easier to scrape away. Use them judiciously to prevent scorching the wood.
• Pressure washer. Pressure washers use high-pressure water to remove dirt, grime, and other build-up from surfaces. This makes them ideal for removing paint from wood, as the paint can be quickly stripped away without damaging the wood surface. 

FAQs

What grit sandpaper should I use to remove paint from wood?

The sandpaper grit to remove paint from wood depends on the condition and the desired finish of the wood. Nonetheless, coarse-grit sandpapers are generally recommended for removing thick layers of paint, while medium grits are ideal for removing moderately thick paint layers from wood surfaces.

Can I use a pressure washer to remove paint from wood?

Yes, you can use a pressure washer to remove paint from wood. Pressure washers use high-pressure water to remove dirt, grime, and other build-up from surfaces. This makes them ideal for removing paint from wood, as the paint can be quickly stripped away without damaging the wood surface. 

However, timing is important when using a pressure washer for this purpose. If the wood is too dry, the pressure from the washer can damage the wood. 

Can I reuse sandpaper to remove paint from wood?

Yes, you can reuse sandpaper to remove paint from wood surfaces, but you should not do it. It’s best to use fresh sandpaper for removing paint from wood to ensure optimal efficiency and avoid any potential issues with worn-out grit.

Can I use an electric sander to remove paint from delicate wood?

Using an electric sander on delicate wood requires caution and skill to prevent damage. Hand sanding may be a safer option in such cases.

Is it necessary to sand the wood after removing the paint?

Yes, sanding the wood after removing paint from wood ensures a smooth, even surface for refinishing or repainting. Ensure you use fine-grit sandpaper when preparing the wood surface for refinishing after removing an old coat of paint. 

How long does it take to remove paint from wood by sanding? 

The time it takes to remove paint from wood by sanding depends on the thickness of the paint layers, the chosen sandpaper grit, and the size of your project. In any case, always be patient when sanding paint off wood surfaces to avoid damaging the wood and achieve the best results. 

Can I use an electric sander indoors? 

Yes, you can use an electric sander to remove paint from wood indoors, but ensure proper ventilation to prevent the accumulation of dust. Some paint types may contain toxic substances that can harm your health when inhaled. 

Sandpaper Grit to Remove Paint from Wood: Recap

Removing paint from wood can be rewarding if done correctly. This requires choosing the appropriate grit sandpaper for the task. 

Whether you are working on a small DIY project or a significant refinishing job, understanding sandpaper grit and using the appropriate tools will ensure a smooth and efficient process of removing paint from wood surfaces. 

This article has discussed the right grit sandpaper to remove paint from wood floors, furniture, and other wood surfaces. It has also provided step-by-step procedures for removing paint from wood floors and other wood surfaces.

We hope this detailed guide helps you out. Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments.