Drywall sanding: it’s a necessary evil when you're patching walls or doing a full remodel. Get the wrong sandpaper, and you’ll be fighting a losing battle against dust, scratches, and frustration. Selecting the right grit, material, and type can make the job faster, cleaner, and a whole lot easier. This article will walk you through some top-notch sandpaper options designed to give you that smooth, paint-ready finish you’re after.
Here's a quick look at some of the best sandpaper for drywall:
- 3M Sandpaper for Drywall: Great all-around performance and durability.
- Norton SandWet 400 Grit Sandpaper: Ideal for wet sanding to minimize dust.
- DEWALT DWHT70447 Sandpaper: Good value and reliable quality.
- Mirka Abranet Mesh Sanding Discs: Excellent dust extraction for cleaner sanding.
- Gator Grit 220 Sandpaper: Budget-friendly option for light sanding.
Top 5 Best Sandpaper for Drywall Sanding
1. 3M Sandpaper for Drywall
3M's drywall sandpaper is a solid choice when you need something reliable and durable. It's designed to resist clogging, which means you can sand for longer without constantly having to clean the paper. The grit is consistent, providing a smooth finish on drywall.
Pros:
- ✅ Long-lasting and durable.
- ✅ Resists clogging.
- ✅ Consistent grit for a smooth finish.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be slightly more expensive than other options.
- ❌ May not be aggressive enough for very rough surfaces.
- ❌ Some users find the backing less flexible than other brands.
Verdict: This sandpaper is a good all-around choice if you're willing to spend a bit more for quality and durability. It's suitable for most drywall sanding tasks.
2. Norton SandWet 400 Grit Sandpaper
Norton SandWet sandpaper is specifically made for wet sanding, which is a great technique for minimizing dust when working with drywall. The 400 grit is fine enough to create a smooth surface without being too aggressive. I've used this for small patch jobs and it really cuts down on the mess.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent for wet sanding, reducing dust.
- ✅ Creates a very smooth finish.
- ✅ Durable and long-lasting.
Cons:
- ❌ Not ideal for dry sanding.
- ❌ May clog if not used with enough water.
- ❌ Higher grit might not be suitable for initial sanding of rough patches.
Verdict: If you're committed to wet sanding for dust control, this is an excellent choice. It's perfect for achieving a smooth, paint-ready surface.
3. DEWALT DWHT70447 Sandpaper
DEWALT's sandpaper offers a good balance between quality and value. It's a reliable option for general drywall sanding tasks. The paper holds up well and the grit is consistent, making it a dependable choice for both DIYers and professionals. I like keeping a pack of this around for quick touch-ups.
Pros:
- ✅ Good value for the price.
- ✅ Reliable performance.
- ✅ Durable and long-lasting.
Cons:
- ❌ Not specifically designed for dust extraction.
- ❌ May not be as effective on very hard or uneven surfaces.
- ❌ Some users report the grit wearing down faster than premium brands.
Verdict: This sandpaper is a solid choice for those looking for a balance between price and performance. It's suitable for most general drywall sanding needs.
4. Mirka Abranet Mesh Sanding Discs
Mirka Abranet sanding discs are a game-changer if you hate dust. The mesh design allows for exceptional dust extraction, keeping your work area much cleaner. They're a bit of an investment, but the improved air quality and reduced cleanup time are worth it. I used these when sanding a whole room and the difference was night and day.
Pros:
- ✅ Superior dust extraction.
- ✅ Long lifespan due to the mesh design.
- ✅ Provides a very consistent finish.
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than traditional sandpaper.
- ❌ Requires a sanding tool that supports mesh discs.
- ❌ May not be necessary for small or infrequent sanding jobs.
Verdict: If you're serious about dust control and do a lot of sanding, Mirka Abranet discs are a worthwhile investment. They're especially great for larger projects.
5. Gator Grit 220 Sandpaper
Gator Grit sandpaper is a budget-friendly option for light drywall sanding. The 220 grit is ideal for smoothing out minor imperfections and preparing surfaces for painting. While it may not be as durable as some of the more expensive options, it's a good choice for small jobs or when you need to save money.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable.
- ✅ Suitable for light sanding and finishing.
- ✅ Readily available at most hardware stores.
Cons:
- ❌ Not as durable as other brands.
- ❌ May clog more easily.
- ❌ Not aggressive enough for heavy-duty sanding.
Verdict: This sandpaper is a good choice for budget-conscious DIYers who need to do light sanding or touch-ups. It's best suited for smaller projects.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right sandpaper for drywall sanding involves considering several factors. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
- Grit: Grit refers to the size of the abrasive particles on the sandpaper. Lower numbers mean coarser sandpaper, while higher numbers mean finer sandpaper. For drywall, start with a coarser grit (80-120) for initial sanding and then move to a finer grit (180-220) for finishing.
- Material: Sandpaper comes in various materials, including aluminum oxide, silicon carbide, and ceramic. Aluminum oxide is a good all-around choice for drywall. Silicon carbide is better for wet sanding.
- Type: You can find sandpaper in sheets, rolls, or discs. Sheets are good for hand sanding, while discs are designed for use with power sanders. Rolls can be convenient for larger projects.
- Dust Extraction: If you're concerned about dust, look for sandpaper with a mesh design or that is specifically designed for wet sanding. These options will help minimize the amount of dust in the air.
- Sanding Method: Determine if you'll be hand-sanding or using a power sander. This will influence the type of sandpaper you need (sheets vs. discs).
- Project Size: For small touch-ups, a budget-friendly option may suffice. For larger projects, investing in higher-quality, more durable sandpaper can save you time and frustration.
- Wet vs. Dry Sanding: Wet sanding minimizes dust but requires sandpaper designed for wet use. Dry sanding is more common but produces more dust.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about sandpaper for drywall sanding:
What grit sandpaper should I use for drywall?
Start with 80-120 grit for initial sanding to remove imperfections, then switch to 180-220 grit for a smooth finish.
Can I use regular sandpaper on drywall?
Yes, but sandpaper designed for drywall (or multi-purpose) will generally perform better and last longer. Avoid sandpaper meant for metal or wood only.
How do I reduce dust when sanding drywall?
Use wet sanding techniques or sandpaper with a mesh design for dust extraction. You can also use a vacuum attachment with your sander.
Is it better to hand sand or use a power sander for drywall?
For small areas and touch-ups, hand sanding is fine. For larger areas, a power sander will be faster and more efficient. Just be careful not to over-sand.
How often should I change my sandpaper when sanding drywall?
Change the sandpaper when it becomes clogged or when you notice it's no longer cutting effectively. This will depend on the quality of the sandpaper and the amount of sanding you're doing.
Conclusion
Choosing the right sandpaper can make a big difference in the quality and ease of your drywall sanding project. Whether you prioritize dust control, budget, or durability, there's an option out there for you. Consider the size of your project, your sanding method, and your desired finish to make the best choice. Happy sanding!
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and buy a product, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
