Sanding Varnish

[Woodsgood]

So what type of sandpaper is recommended for sanding (off) varnish? Or is it not possible? Trying to avoid heat and chemicals.

Thanks

 

[Scott B.]

So what type of sandpaper is recommended for sanding (off) varnish? Or is it not possible? Trying to avoid heat and chemicals.

Thanks

I'd recommend 80g Granat to start. Use extraction and keep it moving. Grit steps will depend on the finish you intend to apply.

 

[Scott B.]

Here's an example of stripping and refinishing antique oak doors using that approach...
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[gkaiseril]

Check the abrasives selector, http://www.festoolusa.com/abrasives , and select your sander and material to sand and you will be presented with the possible options.

 

[Woodsgood]

Thanks,

but I tried Granet 80-220 on an RO90, but it just melts and gums up the pad.

 

[Walk On Wood]

Sounds like you're sanding shellac.. I run into that a lot on floors and stairs. Try 36 grit and lowering the sander speed all the way down.  Hand sanding with 36 will work if the RO90 doesn't.

 

[Theshipstore]

I have similar problem with varnish on decks of sailboats, last job was cabin floor, the RO 90 work fine with Granat as long as I allowed the sander to do it job and kept pressure off the machine, otherwise the Granat loaded up quickly.
End results are

 

[Scott B.]

Thanks,

but I tried Granet 80-220 on an RO90, but it just melts and gums up the pad.

Best approach I have found is to bust out the edges first and work your way into things. I wouldn't hesitate to go down to 60g. Also try turning the speed down. Cross hatch sanding can work well here too.

It probably goes without saying, but don't attempt this in the sun.