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How To

How to Buy a Sander

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(5 Ratings)

Sanding is easy if you have the right tool. Here are several sanding tools to think about.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Belt Sanders
  • Finishing Sanders
  • Orbital Sanders
  • Pole Sander
  • Rotary Sanders
  • Sanding Blocks
  • Sanding Pads
  • Sandpaper
  • Sandpaper
  1. Step 1

    Get a sanding block for smoothing flat areas. This is a manual tool.

  2. Step 2

    Buy a pole sander if you're sanding a ceiling. This, too, is a manual tool.

  3. Step 3

    Buy a sanding pad or two, even if you plan to buy a power sander. This is simply a hand-held circle with Velcro on it. It makes detail work that requires flexibility a breeze.

  4. Step 4

    Consider an orbital sander for getting an object ready for varnishing or staining. There are two types - random and palm (see Tips).

  5. Step 5

    Look for a belt sander if you're removing large amounts of wood and stripping paint. Belt sanders resemble small tanks - look for one that is large enough for the job, but not too big to control.

  6. Step 6

    Get a disc sander for polishing and grinding. These come in single-speed, two-speed, and variable-speed options. Variable-speed sanders will allow the most diverse use.

  7. Step 7

    Check out a finishing sander for jobs that don't require extensive wood removal. This is a two-handed machine that comes in single-speed, two-speed, and variable-speed options. Again, variable-speed models are more useful.

  8. Step 8

    Make sure the tool is comfortable and easy to maneuver. If it doesn't feel right in the store, you won't like using it when you get home.

Tips & Warnings
  • A random orbital sander comes in single- and variable-speed models. A palm orbital sander is better. The palm orbital sander can be used with one hand. Some are available with a dust bag - a very good idea. The dust bag is simply a small paper bag - much like the one on a vacuum cleaner - that attaches to an exhaust port on the tool.
  • Keep the receipt with the manual and other paperwork and send in the warranty card as soon as you get it.
  • Buy models with dust collectors on them.

Comments  

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on 3/21/2009 As a small Michigan business owner, I like to stick to the local guys for supplies when necessary. For years, I have been getting my abrasive belts, wheels and supplies from Econaway Abrasives. They have information on their website with full pricing and order forms. I believe the URL is http://www.econaway.com. They are in West Michigan, and provide a full spectrum of abrasive supplies for residential or industrial needs.

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 3/14/2006 I bought a Black and Decker, small, square, one speed, sander with a dust bag collector. The dust collector never collected any dust. It was loud, tiresome to use, and broke after only one year. I would spend the money next time on the best sander. It's the worst job to do with a bad sander.

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eHow Article: How to Buy a Sander

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