Drywall is a popular building material for finishing interior walls. It is durable, cost-effective, easy to install and repair. It is no wonder why it is the first choice for contractors.
However, to do this type of work, you will probably need a drywall sander or a wall straightener.
Drywall Sander: Importance and Use
The drywall sander is suitable for sanding plastered walls, ceilings, and interior walls, as well as for removing paper residues, paint layers, coatings, adhesive residues, and loose plaster. The device can also be used to sand the floor.
New models include automatic vacuum systems and more ergonomic handles which makes it easier to use and apply. However, it is essential to know everything about this tool to be able to use it properly.
Take appropriate protective measures
Be sure to protect yourself and your belongings from dust before you start with the task. Wear goggles when you use the wall sander, and a dust mask to protect yourself.
Seal the room with plastic at the entrance so that dust does not escape to the rest of your house. Properly ventilate the room, but don't open all the windows. Doing so will cause dust to circulate. Also, place a rag on the floor to catch the dust.
Remember that you will be preparing your walls for paint or wallpaper, so make sure you get a uniform finish.
Sealer alone is not enough
A good sealer can help hide any imperfections on your walls, but sanding is the last chance to get everything right beforehand.
Meanwhile, sanding can only be done well if all other processes have been done carefully. If applied well, it will be evident when the paint is dry. You obviously need more than one tool in your tool shed, as for example a solid welder. Check our Everlast Welder Review to learn more about these.
Select the best Drywall sanders
The new wall and ceiling sanding machines are electronically controlled, have a soft start, overload protection and also speed selection and adjustment.
New models include an automatic filter cleaning system that gives you excellent extraction results. Dust extraction systems help keep the work area clean and free of debris.
Prevents excessive sanding
Excessive sanding can damage the surface of your wall when dry and leave wear marks. Always start sanding lightly; you can continue sanding more and, little by little if it is still not enough.
You need an ergonomic handle
A wall sander with an ergonomic grip is perfect for reaching places like high walls or ceilings. Some sanding machines include a handle over 150 cm.
Always keep the sanding head slightly inclined to avoid slipping.
Complements the wall straightener with other attachments
Electric sanding machines are crucial in getting most jobs done quickly and efficiently, as well as providing an excellent finish.
However, if you want to remove small fragments that you may have lost with an electric sander, hand sanding works well even on dry walls.
A sanding sponge can also complement the work. Sanding sponges are less likely to damage the opposite wall when turning a corner.
Get a long extension to operate the sander
With a long extension, using a wall sander means less stretching to reach hard-to-reach areas, and makes ladders unnecessary.
A longer handle allows you to make longer movements as you sand.
Lightweight, ergonomically designed sanders ensure less muscle fatigue and less stress when working on high surfaces.
Learn how to sand repairs
If you plan to apply patches to drywall areas that are damaged, you should know that they require persistence and patience to complete the job.
You can quickly fill a section of gypsum board that has a dent, or a small hole with the compound or sealer.
To prepare for the repair, place the patch over the hole or dent. It has the effect of refilling the repair with the joint compound, preventing a hollow repair.
Spread the layer on the metal patch at least two times, but make sure the compound has dried enough between coatings.
Once you have finished applying the final coat, let it dry and then sand.
Use all accessories correctly
Wall sanding machines include a practical Velcro system. Using the various abrasive discs and their different grain ranges will allow you to have a less abrupt finish, and the possibility to use them in the same way.
Learn how to sand correctly
To apply the sander correctly, you must support the entire surface of the abrasive disc, using moderate pressure on the workpiece and making longitudinal and transverse or circular movements.
It is recommended to use a larger granulate for coarse sanding and a finer granulate for precision sanding. Sanding tests can determine the most suitable granulate.
Traditionally, drywall sanding was a time-consuming and challenging task, not to mention resource depletion due to the time needed to clear up the subsequent clutter.
Fortunately, times have changed, and more and more contractors are discovering why a wall sander can save them time and money.
Its ease of use will save you a great deal of time, especially on larger sanding projects.
