Discover the Right Tool for Your Drywall Sanding Needs: 4 Types of Sanders Explained
There are four types of drywall sanders available on the market today, each of which is suitable for different types of drywall installation, depending on the specific job. Depending on the size of the drywall areas to be sanded, the volume of dust to be collected, and the budget, different types of drywall sanders will be better suited enabling you to create a smooth and even finish.
The first drywall sander is the manual sanding block, which is a flexible tool that is perfect for small projects such as repairs to parts of broken drywall, sanding corners, and rounding the edges of the drywall. It features dual and single-angle heads, and the sandpaper comes pre-equipped with either fine or medium grit and can be easily swapped to the appropriate grit when needed. This sander can also be equipped with a sanding sponge for sanding corners, as well as chamfer and bullnose beads for rounding edges.
The second drywall sander is the dustless turbo drywall sander, which is ideal for willing handyman who don’t mind making investments. This one is a lightweight sander with a rectangular head, suitable for reaching in tight corners, and it is also equipped with a vacuum to collect the dust and fine particles produced while sanding. Furthermore, it comes with special sandpaper with a mesh backing, which prevents clogging and lasts longer than ordinary sandpaper. Some of these sanders also come with an air turbine that can generate a speed of up to 10,000 rpm, ideal for speed sanding. This type of sander also has a detachable extension boom, enabling it to easily reach ceilings and high walls without using a ladder.
The third drywall sander is the portable cable sander, this one is aggressive and is designed for professional jobs. It features a 13-foot boom ideal for sanding most areas, but it does come with a hefty price tag of around $800 and is quite heavy, at about 8 lbs.
The fourth is the orbital drywall sander, a handheld power tool perfect for home improvement projects such as drywall mudding compound removal as well as removing paint and rust. However, it does not come with an extension boom, this means you may have to use a tool or ladder when sanding ceilings or high areas of the drywall.
No matter what type of sander you decide to choose, it is important to make sure you wear a face mask and safety glasses to protect yourself from the dust and particles generated while sanding. The right tool can make drywall installation a lot easier so it’s important to have the right sander for the job.
