Which Sandpaper Grit for Drywall
Sanding drywall is a critical step that determines the quality of your finished walls. Even the best joint compound application can look uneven if the sanding is not done properly. Knowing what grit sandpaper for drywall to use at different stages ensures that your surface becomes smooth and even. The process is less about pressure and more about precision.
When done correctly, drywall sanding blends seams, gets rid of ridges, and produces a flawless, perfectly smooth surface ready for painting.
Understanding Grit Numbers for Drywall
The grit number on sandpaper represents how coarse or fine the abrasive surface is. A smaller number means the sandpaper is coarse and removes material quickly, while a larger number creates a fine surface. Choosing the right sandpaper grit for drywall finishing prevents damage such as paper tearing, visible scuffs, or inconsistent finishes.
If the grit is too coarse, it can damage the drywall paper or leave swirl marks that remain visible after painting. If it’s too fine too early, it can miss imperfections. The goal is to move in stages from coarse to fine for a seamless finish.
Recommended Sandpaper Grit for Drywall Stages
Professional drywall finishers typically follow a three-stage grit progression to achieve optimal results:
• 100–120 grit: Ideal for rough sanding to remove high areas after joint compound application. This grit should be used with care to prevent surface tearing.
• 120–150 grit: Perfect for blending seams once the major imperfections are removed. This grit provides the main shaping and blending phase.
• 180–220 grit: Best for pre-paint sanding. It creates a consistent surface without visible scratches.
This sequence ensures each layer of compound is evenly finished, resulting in a paint-ready wall.
Must-Have Drywall Sanding Tools
Using proper tools is as important as selecting the right grit. Quality equipment helps maintain even pressure, reduces fatigue, and keeps dust under control.
Common tools include:
• Manual sanding block for touch-ups
• Extension sander for large surfaces
• Sanding sponges for corners and curved areas
• Mesh sanding sheets for airflow
• Mask to prevent dust exposure
• Work light or inspection light to spot imperfections
These tools help ensure smooth, uniform results without damaging the drywall paper.
How to Sand Drywall Like a Pro
Sanding drywall is a careful process. Following professional techniques prevents common surface flaws and ensures your work looks seamless once painted.
1. Let the Joint Compound Dry Completely
Always wait for the compound to dry fully before sanding. Partially dried mud will smear and ruin your finish. Fully cured compound turns into fine dust when sanded, allowing for smooth sanding.
2. Apply Light, Even Pressure
Avoid pressing too hard. Let the sandpaper do the work while maintaining steady strokes. Excessive pressure can create gouges.
3. Feather the Edges
Blend the joint compound smoothly into the drywall using light overlapping passes. Focus on seams rather than flat surfaces to create a smooth appearance.
4. Use Angled Lighting
Shine a light across the wall’s surface to highlight high and low spots that might not be visible head-on. This ensures all imperfections are addressed before painting.
5. Switch to Finer Grit for Final Passes
Once the wall feels flat and smooth, move to 180–220 grit sandpaper. This stage perfects the finish and prepares the wall for the final coat.
Sanding Corners and Tight Spots
Corners and edges need gentle technique. Use a fine-grit sanding sponge or folded sandpaper to reach these areas. Sand one side at a time with controlled movement to avoid damaging the tape or paper.
For inside corners, a few light passes are usually enough to eliminate ridges without thinning the surface material. Careful motion is the key to maintaining joint integrity.
Drywall Sanding Errors to Watch For
Many DIY finishers make the mistake of being too aggressive or skipping crucial steps. To achieve a professional outcome, avoid the following:
• Cutting into the drywall surface
• Choosing the wrong grit
• Pressing too hard what grit sandpaper for drywall compound and damaging drywall paper
• Failing to identify imperfections
• Not using protective gear
Patience, precision, and proper technique matter more than speed during drywall sanding.
Getting Walls Ready for Primer
Before applying paint, ensure that the wall is completely free from debris and fine powder. Wipe the surface with a microfibre cloth or a vacuum attachment designed for drywall dust. Check all areas under angled light to confirm a consistent finish. Using 180–220 grit sandpaper for drywall before painting ensures a even and receptive surface for primer adhesion.
A properly sanded wall allows primer and paint to seal correctly, preventing visible marks and ensuring a professional result.
Wrapping Up
Mastering the correct drywall sanding grit to use at each stage can significantly improve the quality of your walls. Start with medium grit to remove rough patches, move to finer grits for blending, and finish with ultra-fine sanding for that professional surface.
By combining the right tools, lighting, and a consistent technique, you can achieve a flawless drywall finish that looks professional under any paint or lighting condition. Careful sanding and control are the true secrets to expert-level drywall finishing.