Best Wood Sanders for Your Project

Every tool collection should include a few manual hand sanders. Not only are they inexpensive, but there are always certain projects that call for the quick sanding provided by manual hand sanders, such as when you want to smooth out dried putty.

Random-orbital sanders are some of the most versatile power sanders. Disc and orbital sanders provide a super-fine finish to surfaces and feature a built-in ventilation system that prevents dust from scattering all over the room. One of the best sanders for wood, it features a circular pad that spins as it sands.

Sheet sanders are types of sanders that smooth large surfaces easily. Use in a straight or a circular motion, depending upon the sander.

Palm grip sanders are a great first choice when you're just starting to build out your wood sander collection. It features a compact design with a handle that fits in the palm of your hand. This easy-to-use tool is ideal for distressing furniture, sanding off existing finishes or smoothing out rough wood surfaces to prepare them for finishing. Their affordable price and compact design make them an ideal wood sander for home use, but they aren't durable enough for commercial use.

A corner cat sander is one of the best sanders for furniture because the pad makes it easy to sand a flat expanse, while its tapered corners reach tight spaces. If you refinish furniture frequently, this is a great investment.

When you need an even finish on a long expanse of wood, a belt sander is the tool for the job. These heavy-duty power sanders, which use sanding belts, are a carpentry must-have. It’s one of the best sanders for decks. Belt sanders are designed for use with a ventilation system. It's also best to use these types of sanders to sand along the wood grain. This industrial-grade tool is more of an investment and makes a better choice for an avid builder.

Detail sanders are the best sanders when you want to finish furniture. The small, triangular design of these power sanders makes them ideal for getting into tight spaces.

Spindle sanders come in handy when you frequently refinish chairs or railings. Their unique design makes easy work of fine sanding in tight areas such as on a fence or staircase.

Mouse sanders, another type of wood sander, are also great for furniture repair. Their unique design, contour shaped and lightweight, will fit your hand like a computer mouse. They work well for fine surface treatment and can be used on items with complex designs.

As with any power tools, it's important to take some basic safety precautions when using any of these types of sanders. To start, keep your hands away from the sander surface while it is running. Also, make sure that you are gliding the handle across the surface of the material you're sanding. Don't press down on the sander because not only will the added pressure damage the surface, but it could cause the machine to kick back at you.

Other safety precautions for operating a wood sander:

• Always follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines.
• Use respiratory protection for materials that create a lot of sawdust.
• Wear earplugs when using noisy sanders to prevent hearing loss.
• Wear safety glasses when using a sander.

Power sanders may be operated with electricity, batteries or air compressors. Electric sanders are usually more economical and portable. Pneumatic sanders work with an air compressor and are more powerful, allowing you to work faster. However, this makes them more expensive.

Wood sanders have different types of features to consider:

Trigger Lock: This allows you to keep the unit locked in the "on" position without having to manually press the trigger. Sanders with a lock-on switch reduce fatigue.

Clamps: Used with more portable sanders for delicate jobs, clamps allow you to lock sanders in an upside-down position to create a sanding stand.

Grips: Two-handed or large front grips make it easier to guide the sander accurately.

Portability: A carrying case and long cord make it easier to move power sanders to and from different work areas.

Pad Brakes: This features lets you lift the sander from the work surface and put it back down without gouging the material.

Tracking Adjustment: Knobs or thumbscrews make adjusting the tracking quick and easy.