How to Buy a Sander

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

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

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

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. 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. 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. 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.

[thebestintown]

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.

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.