Bunnings

Sign in or sign up

No Bunnings account? Sign up
or
PowerPass customer?
Visit the dedicated trade website

Project list

Sign in to your account

Ozito sanders laid out in a row.
There are a wide variety of sanders, which come in different shapes, sizes and attachments, each suited for different materials and projects. In this handy guide, we’ll take you through some key types of sanders. This will help you choose the right sander to achieve the perfect finish on your next D.I.Y. project.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment. It’s worth noting that different sanders require different types of safety equipment.

1. Orbital sanders

Orbital sanders are named after the orbital action of the base plate. Each grain of sand on the sandpaper moves in a small circle on your workspace to remove material and smooth uneven surfaces. Orbital sanders come in a range of shapes and sizes.

A detail sander is a type of orbital sander that has a pointed, triangular base suited for sanding into corners and tight spaces.

Tip: Move the sander in-line with the grain of the timber for the best result.

A hand using a detail sander to sand paint from outdoor timber step outside

Sheet sanders come in varying lengths and have a flat base with straight edges; they are commonly square or rectangular in shape. They’re great for refreshing flat surfaces like tabletops and for sanding flush against timber edges.

Multifunction tools often including a sanding attachment that is perfect for getting into corners and small spaces. This type of sander is an oscillating sander typically used in smaller projects. It’s effective in sanding back material quickly.

A pair of hands holding a multifunction tool with sanding head to sand back outdoor timber steps

2. Random orbital sanders

This sander is the great all-rounder. In addition to orbital sanders, random orbital sanders have an off-set ‘random’ rotation on the sanding base. Every grain of sand on the sandpaper travels in a small spiral to leave your project with a super smooth finish without streaks.

Tip: Work from a lower sandpaper grit number to a higher sandpaper grit for the smoothest finish on your project.

A pair of hands holding a random orbital sander to smooth back a weathered outdoor timber chair in a garden

3. Belt sanders

Belt sanders have a sandpaper belt that makes quick work of removing a lot of material. They are better suited for heavy-duty tasks like sanding back timber flooring or hardwood timber furniture with a lot of dents.

Tip: Keep a firm grip on the tool when it is switched on as it will feel like it is pulling away from you in the direction of the belt.

Person using a belt sander on panelling.

4. Specialty sanders

A drywall sander is specifically suited for sanding plasterboard. It’s able to keep fine plasterboard dust away from the components on the motor. It also has a wide sanding base to make quick work of smoothing down plaster joins.

Person using a sander on timber flooring.

The file sander has a thin sanding belt that is well suited for stripping tough material from furniture and difficult shapes.

Person using a file sander on an armchair.

Rotary tool kits come with many accessories and attachments that help with polishing, sanding, grinding, cutting and carving. Add a flexible shaft to this product for more precise control when using it for intricate projects.

Person using a rotary tool kit on shears.

Ready to choose your sander?

Check out the full range of sanders available to finish your next D.I.Y. project.

 

Photo Credit: Ozito Industries

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.