Best Sander for Removing Paint from Wood – Top 3 Picks!

Paint removal, especially over the wood materials, is not that easy. Being careful not to create any damage on either the finish or wood surface is the main challenge of removing paints. Oftentimes, many people are hesitant to use a sander due to the care that it requires especially during its use. However, the good thing to do is to look for the best sander for removing paint from wood in order to make paint removal an easy and successful task.

BEST SANDER FOR REMOVING PAINTS FROM WOODPRODUCT NAMEEXPERT RATINGCHECK PRICE
Makita Speed Belt Sander 9903 Check Price
Dewalt Random Orbit Sander Check Price
Wagner 0513040 Paint Eater Check Price

Paint removal using the best sander for removing paint from wood

One of the simplest and refreshing ways to overhaul a tired surface is stripped out a new fresh paint coating. Yet, it is always been a fact that new paint will eventually fade and becomes old. It may develop blisters, cracks out or forms a lump of pigments. Ideally, starting over again needs to strip the furniture of the old items and start again with a fresh smooth, bare wood surface.

There are actually three popular ways to remove paint from wood. This includes the heating process, chemical stripping, and sanding. Each of the methods entails different products that you might consider to use. In case you do not yet have an idea on what method to take, below is detailed information about each option.

Determine if the wood needs to be exposed

Once you already end up with the decision of exposing a wood product and give it some finishing touch with a clear coat, you initially need to identify if the wood was varnished or painted on its original state. In order to do this, look for the hidden spot, like the inner part of the drawer. Basically, shave a piece of a test patch over different paint layers through the use of a scraper. In case the bottom layer is painted, it simply means that it is not already worthy for staining again.

Plan if you do it yourself or hire a pro

Determining if the paint removal job is big enough, comprehensive, or a dangerous one to deal with it alone is often a better choice. Knowing this, here are some options that you may consider:

Send out the woodwork

Using a dip tank, try to send the woodwork to a pro in case it is very easy to remove like the doors and windows. Usually, professionals deal with this by the use of special vats in soaking the entire furniture in liquid paint removers. This process will generally produce faster and thorough results.

Call a pro in

Another option is to invite an expert to your house to do an on-site job. This is actually suitable if your area has sidings that need a quick bare stripping. If you want to hire paint removal experts, try to check them over the EPA’s website.

Choose the appropriate tools

The following are the best tool options in removing paint from wood:

Heaters

Generally, these are tools that emit high temperatures in order to soften the varnishes or thick layers of paint. The purpose of the heater for this function is to easily remove the gunk through a scraper. Typically, they reduce the dust and can lengthen the periods of painting.

Drawbacks:

  • Production of fumes
  • Potential risk of creating charred wood

Basically, in going for this tool, consider the ease of use, safety, and the cost of each item. Below are the three heating tools that help in melting paints.

HEAT GUNS

Heat is basically an approved method for melting thick layers of paint over flat surfaces or within tight areas. Finding the right temperature is actually the main key here. Setting this tool on too low may basically make the job to last for long. However, too high temperature may produce vapors that might be dangerous.

The appearance of this heating tool resembles hairdryers which blow hot, concentrated air via a nozzle so that the paint may lose. Generally, most units available contain both high and low settings. Yet, this heating tool can produce burns and fires if left plugged in over a certain place for a long period. This also applies true even on low settings.    

INFRARED DEVICE

In order to heat and loosen the bond connected among paints, the infrared rays may act upon it without producing any noise or dust. Most infrared devices work in a quick manner and with just a second blowing process, long time paints can be softened.

Moreover, this device can also maintain the temperature of the paint lower than 500OF which is below the point that woods generally ignite. This heat comes from the infrared gets the moisture from the wood thus enhancing its property to keep new paint. However, infrared devices are basically bulky and difficult to use over tight spaces.

STEAM STRIPPERS

Another heating tool that melts away paints is the steam stripper which basically utilizes water vapor to make the paint soft without the application of heat over 212OF. This tool generally prevents the risks of producing fire. Moreover, the condensation process behind this tool reduces the production of dust and fumes. However, one of its drawbacks is the generation of tons of moisture which eventually saturate the wood.

Chemical Strippers

The chemical strippers are paint removing agents that usually dissolves paint in the form of liquids or gels. Using this may result in no dust and no paint chips paint removal process. Basically, the chemical stripper is a good alternative for heaters which may have not hit any fine details and awkward shapes.

Drawbacks:

  • Messy to use
  • Produce strong chemical smell
  • Slow process of paint removal
Sanders

The sanders act to grind away paint and they are typically perfect to use for large, flat surfaces outdoor. However, they can be used indoor if the vacuum is attached to capture dust and paints. Moreover, there are different types of sanders for removing paint from wood available in the market.

ORBITAL SANDERS

Generally, this type of sander exhibits high OPM or motions per minute which details the speed of completion of the sanding process. The handles of the orbital sander are ergonomic ensuring to have a comfortable grip over them. This feature generally makes it ideal on using this sander over fine wood.

ARBITRARY CIRCLE SANDER

The second type of sander is highly applicable to strip out paint on the furniture because it works on a harder process of settling down the vanish among wood fibers. Additionally, the arbitrary circle sander is also a good option to create a neat surface between the paint coats. Moreover, it must also have a circle changing feature so that operating the machine is not a struggle.

Compared to the vibrating sander, this type of sander basically works faster. Yet, this is not as effective in removing more paint. Another thing to consider is having a tidy space for gathering other connection options.

SHAFT SANDERS

In case your task is to smooth out the sharp edges and bends, then this shaft sander is generally applicable. Further, a combination of this type of sander with a belt sander may offer completion of the removal process. Yet, in opting for this product, it is advisable to check for the belt strain modification, controls locations, presence of steel plate, and the belt revolver.

BELT SANDERS

Together with the orbital type, the belt sander is one of the most common sanders type available. It keeps its efficiency to the highest levels and generally very versatile when it comes to its usage.

What to look for when buying the best sander for removing paint from wood?

Actually, paint removal is not really an easy task and along with it is to have patience in order to achieve a successful result. Aside from that, one of the best ways to remove paint from wood is through the use of powerful sander. Yet, picking for the best one entails various factors that you need to consider.

Power

Initially, the process of removing paint always demands extreme power. Bear this in mind when you decide to buy one. Sanders with greater than 6-amp motor power rating can actually handle most of the workload.

Speed

The best sander for removing paint from wood also contains various speeds as one of their features. This variable generally offers possibilities for controlling the machine even on a flat surface.

Speed locks

Speed lock is actually a feature of orbital sander that permits the holding of sander while doing the task. In looking for the best sander for removing paint from wood needs the one that locks at the maximum speed level.

Good dust and paint collection setting

Regardless of the surface, you work with and the sander you are using, the important thing is that it contains a secure vacuum attachment. It is generally better to focus on this feature as you do not want to deal with a sander that blows paints and dust around the area.

3 of the Best Sander for Removing Paint from Wood

OUR TOP PICK: Makita Speed Belt Sander 9903

Product Name: Makita Speed Belt Sander 9903

Product Description: If you want a top product for the removal of your paint, Makita Speed Belt Sander 9903 is one of the best sanders for removing paint from wood. It has an extremely powerful motor that makes this sander an excellent one. With the motor of 8.8-amp, this best sander for removing paint from wood can generally handle dry and hard paint and even paints that are oil-based. Makita Speed Belt Sander 9903 has a noise level of 84dB once its motor starts to run. The produced sound may be uncomfortable for some. Yet, when compared to other sanders, this best sander for removing paint from wood is actually the quieter unit. Moreover, the speed of the motor may vary from the range of 690 to 1440 ft/min.

  • Maneuverability
  • Ergonomic
  • Ease of use
Overall
4.8

Summary

In case you are looking for a sander that generally controls the dial which matches the speed application through the variable speed, Makita Speed Belt Sander 9903 is a good choice. It basically comes with a good grip in front and auto-tracking belt settings that make this product the best buy.

Key Features:

  • Has a motor power of about 8.8-amp
  • With auto-tracking belt function
  • Weighs 9.5 pounds
  • The power cord measures around 16.4ft

Pros

  • Quieter compared to other sanders
  • Easy to maneuver
  • Comfortable grip

Cons

  • More expensive

  • Tends to become heavier during paint removal

RUNNER-UP

Dewalt Random Orbit Sander

best sander for removing paint from wood

Another choice for the best sander for removing paint from wood is the Dewalt Random Orbit Sander which can generally do a decent job on removing paints. Due to its 3.0-amp motor power, a notable 8000 OPM to 12,000 OPM can basically allow the sanding pad to operate. One good thing about this best sander for removing paint from wood is its small size that reduces the distance within your working area.

The Dewalt Random Orbit Sander has a vibrating disc sander while working on the paint removal. Yet, this could not an issue with this best sander for removing paint from wood as it can reduce the common vibrations found on other sanders. Moreover, it has a rubber over-mold in your project location. Through this, you can have a comfortable grip without experiencing fatigue or possible occurrence of blisters. 

Key Features:

  • Has motor power of 3.0-amp
  • Comes with a dust bag that has a locking system
  • The switch is sealed and protected from dust
  • Showcase a low-profile style
  • With sanding pad measuring 5-inch
Pros
  • Dust control setting
  • Ergonomic design
  • Better control
  • Lightweight
Cons
  • Require special attachment for the vacuum
  • Using of the power switch is inconvenient

Summary

A sander that contains rubber over-mold that minimizes the user’s fatigue, the Dewalt Random Orbit Sander can excellently get you near your sanding work. Due to its enhanced dust collection through its vacuum locking feature, this best sander for removing paint from wood is a great choice.

Wagner 0513040 Paint Eater

best sander for removing paint from wood

Looking for a sander that is tough on paint, yet is actually gentle over underlying surfaces, this Wagner 0513040 Paint Eater should not be out of the list. This best sander for removing paint from wood contains a disc that performs better and has spun-fiber capabilities at around 2,600 RPM. Due to this incredible feature, you can experience an excellent combination of user manipulation and disc performance.

The disc has an open web design which guarantees the reduction of dust and paint buildup. This can be applicable for use over the edge in removing paint chips. You can also use this best sander for removing paint from wood over a flat surface to enhance the smooth edges for repainting. It contains a sun fiber disc setting plus the PaintEater machine which generally results in removing paint and rough edges when combined together.

Wagner 0513040 Paint Eater also gives you the possibility to handle outdoor surfaces and its 3.2-amp motor power provides enough capability to remove paint. Moreover, it contains a high performing abrasive system which makes it the best sander for removing paint from wood. Additionally, the Wagner 0513040 Paint Eater is packed with excellent power, better performance, great speed, and control which cannot damage the surface.

Another good feature of this sander is the easy removal of the disc without the need for comprehensive process or extraction tools. The design comes in an ergonomic style thus permits it to adapt to various positions in order to minimize fatigue.

Key Features:

  • The spun-fiber disc that it contains works at 2,000 RPM
  • Gives extreme performance through its 3.2-amp motor
  • The design follows an open-web style for reducing the paint and dust build-up
  • Lightweight which highly allows the long-term use
  • Contains hook-and-loop strap which secures the tool
Pros
  • Works efficiently
  • User-friendly even for beginners
  • Durable
  • Easy to control
Cons
  • Some part like the flip handle easily breaks off
  • Hard to replace the disc
  • Expensive

Summary

Wagner 0513040 Paint Eater is really an excellent sander machine that adapts to various surfaces. Since it can offer various results and can work on the edges to remove stubborn paints, this best sander for removing paint from wood is actually is one of the good picks.

Final Thoughts

The best sander for removing paint from wood is generally helpful in paint removal while protecting the area from dust and any paint debris. This tool basically entails different types which cater to various functions. Moreover, buying this tool should need to consider certain factors like the power, speed, speed locks, dust and paint collection settings, and other features that come with it.

In addition, when it comes to sanders, buying for a high-quality product is basically a good choice of investment over a long period of time. Instead of purchasing affordable equipment, it is actually ideal to put your money on sander machines that keep its durability in the long run.