what grit sandpaper for removing clear coat?

Release Date:2023-05-15 10:24
When refinishing or restoring a surface, removing the old clear coat is often a necessary first step. One of the most effective tools for this job is sandpaper. However, not all sandpaper grits are created equal. So, what grit sandpaper should you use for removing a clear coat?

The short answer is that it depends on the type of clear coat you are removing and the condition of the surface. In general, you will want to start with a coarse grit sandpaper and gradually work your way up to a finer grit to achieve a smooth and even finish.

If the clear coat is in good condition and you want to roughen it up to prepare it for a new coat of paint or finish, you may want to start with 120-grit sandpaper. This will provide enough abrasion to scuff up the surface without removing too much material.
 
For clear coats that are in poor condition or that need to be completely removed, you will likely need to start with a much coarser grit, such as 60 or 80. These grits will remove the clear coat more quickly, but will also leave deeper scratches on the surface. You will then need to work your way up through progressively finer grits, such as 120, 220, and 320, to remove those scratches and achieve a smooth finish.

It's important to note that when removing a clear coat, you should always sand in the direction of the wood grain or other pattern on the surface. This will help prevent unsightly scratches or swirl marks from forming.

In summary, when removing a clear coat, the best grit sandpaper to use will depend on the condition of the surface and the type of clear coat being released. A general guideline is to start with a coarse grit, such as 60 or 80, and work your way up to finer grits, such as 120, 220, and 320, to achieve a smooth finish.

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