Answer
Use a coarser grit for removal, then refine afterward. Start around 80–120 for heavy removal or 150–180 for controlled removal, then move finer in steps.
Why it happens
Fine grits polish and refine scratches; they are not meant to remove heavy material quickly.
Recommended grit
Use 80–120 for heavy removal, 150–180 for controlled removal, then refine with 220, 320, and 400 as needed.
Wet or dry
Use dry sanding for most removal work. Use wet sanding only when the surface and dust control needs make it appropriate.
Success check
The defect is removed efficiently and the surface is ready for the next finer grit.
What to do
- Identify how much material must be removed.
- Switch to 80 or 120 if the job is heavy removal.
- Use 150 or 180 when you need more control.
- Sand until the defect is removed or leveled.
- Move to 220 to reduce the removal scratches.
- Continue to 320 or 400 for finish prep.
- Replace the sheet when it stops cutting.
Avoid: Do not try to remove old paint, rough edges, or heavy defects with 600 grit or finer. It will be slow and may glaze the surface.