Tools

Top 7 Best Belt Sanders For DIY Enthusiasts and Professionals

Last updated on March 30th, 2023

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A belt sander is an essential tool in any woodworker’s arsenal. While sanding itself can be uninteresting at times because it takes too much time, having the right belt sander can make the job a lot easier. This little machine will help you in smoothing and preparing wood workpieces for the next procedure. Modern belt sanders, however, have the ability to sand plastic, metal and even rust, but the problem is choosing the best belt sander that is versatile and delivers excellent results.

Don’t fret! We have done intensive research about these tools and narrowed them down to the 8 best belt sanders that you can consider for your projects. We found that, among other features, power, adjustable speed, ease of belt changing and dust collection were crucial aspects to be considered when buying a belt sander.

And so after comparing our 8 select models, we concluded that the Makita 9404/2 Belt Sander is the absolute best model, with adjustable speed from 210 to 440m/min, an extra-long power cord, compact design and a powerful 8.8 amp motor.

Now that’s according to us. Why don’t you dive in and check out the others, then probably sneak with one that will suit your needs best?


BEST PICK

Makita 9404/2 Belt Sander
Equipped with an1010 watt motor, this tool can tackle metal, wood, and plastic with ease. It operates fairly quietly at 84dB and at this rating, this Makita is a lot quieter than many other sanders. This model comes with a long 16ft power cord, which is also long enough for those difficult jobs such as sanding walls. A top feature of this model is variable speed control ranging from 210 to 440 m/min, which is crucial for stock removal. Although an expensive one, it’s worth every penny and a great choice for those looking for a powerful sander for demanding jobs.

Runner-up

Bosch PBS 75 A Belt Sander
An ideal tool for coarse sanding jobs that demand a high rate of material removal, it offers top-notch sanding performance on wood, metal or plastic from a brand most have come to trust. It can be positioned on its side or upside-down for added convenience and with an output of 750 watts, this one makes easy work of large surfaces although not as powerful as our best pick but it is much more affordable making it perfect for home DIY projects. Featuring Bosch’s low vibration system, the tool is easy to use and offers you total control over your projects which is another plus for beginners. Sanding speed is variable for maximum adaptation to the material and you can always expect smooth, even and professional finish. An excellent option on a budget.

Belt Sander Buyer’s Guide

Types of Belt Sanders

Belt sanders come in two classifications as outlined below.

In-line belt sanders

They are characterised by a low profile design with a boxlike housing that has a low centre of gravity. This means that the sander is less likely to tip regardless of where you are removing scratches and nicks or flattening surfaces. On this type of sanding belt, the motor is positioned parallel to the length of the sanding belt. It includes as well a vertical gear drive that cuts down motor speed and power is fed to the drive roller via a sander belt. Regardless of motor orientation, many belt sanders use a front roller made of metal and a rubber drive roller that ensures the belt does not slip off the material. This belt sander has a flat top meaning you can use it upside down on a workbench as a compact stationary sander. The design is also confined to small, portable and mid-range duty tools.

Transverse belt sander

On a transverse sander, the motor is positioned horizontally over the belt and across the width of the tool. This design delivers more power via a simple toothed drive belt. It includes reduction gears located right behind the drive gear and they are useful for reducing the speed to an appropriate speed to drive the belt. There is a fan behind the motor that creates a strong current of air which conveys dust from the tool to the dust bag. It also includes a belt tensioning mechanism and tracking knob that keeps the belt sturdily aligned on rollers. A lock button keeps the tool locked during continuous use. Generally, transverse belt sanders are comparatively easier to handle than in-line belt sanders. Because the motor is placed perpendicular to the belt, these belt sanders are quite heavy but they sand more aggressively.


Picking the right belt sander

The following are the features you should look for before you buy a belt sander:

Weight and Power

You surely won’t need an earth-shaking power for most of those sanding tasks so power might not be a top priority. Of course, additional power for the same price is always a good thing to have so it pays to compare motor wattage from one sander to another. Most belt sanders are usually used in a horizontal position so weight may not be a serious factor. However, if you are involved in a great number of home works and might need to use a belt sander vertically or overhead, then consider the weight of the machine. A belt sander that weighs 3kg or less will be easier on the arm when used vertically than a machine that weighs anywhere from 7kg upwards.

Size and shape

There are several sizes of belt sanders available but the two common sizes are 3” x 21” and 4” x 24”. The latter is used for heavy-duty sanding and may be too difficult to control for amateurs while the former gives the best combination of power, speed and balance. Keep in mind that belt sanders are differentiated by the size of the sanding belts they use in terms of the length and width of the belt. A larger belt size takes less time to finish the work compared to a smaller size yet it is characterised by a heavy tool. Pick a larger model if you are after an industrial-grade belt sanding tool. If you intend to use the belt sander for a wide range of applications and especially for freehand work, choose one of the smaller models. In any case, this is a personal preference.

Adjustable speed

Conventional sanders have only a single speed of operation. Most modern belt sanders have a variable speed that commonly ranges from 200m/min and 500m/min. Some sophisticated models have two distinct speeds of sanding whilst others feature a speed dialer that lets you choose any speed in between. Going for a variable speed belt sander is a wise decision if you plan to use it for a wide range of applications. The speed that might work well on hardwood could be very rough and coarse on softwood. Assess your requirements and pick a variable speed sander if it does not prove too costly for you. But if you are on a tight budget, a one-speed model will just do pretty fine for most jobs. With a single-speed model, you can change the sanding belt to a finer grit belt so as to control its aggression. Talking of changing belts leads us to our next consideration.

Belt changing

The best belt sander should allow you to change belts easily and quickly. All you have to do is ease the tension off it and push it back in the groove to tighten the belt up again. Upon putting the new belt on, ensure you track it. Some advanced models have auto-tracking whilst others include an adjustable knob that you can turn until the belt sits at the centre of the metal plate that supports the between the rollers. This kind of manual tracking is actually easy.

Dust collection

Most advanced belt sanders are fitted with a dust collector in the form of an attached dust bag. It is a feature with great benefit and in any case, it adds very little to the total cost of the machine. Ensure that the dust collector is large enough so you don’t have to stop your work for a trip to empty the bin when it gets full. Some tools allow you to take out the bag and attach it back while others allow you to get rid of the dust bag and connect a vacuum hose to it.

Handling and comfort

Never overlook comfort when it comes to hand-operated power tools. You might have to work with your sander for extended periods of time so making sure it gives you maximum comfort is important. It is usually subjective depending on the shape and size of your hands and the type of handle you are used to. For instance, woodworkers with broad hands like large, flat, front handles as opposed to rounded knobs because they offer extra grip and better control. Others find the top-handle sanders easier to lift on and off the surface and easy to move around single-handedly. Apart from the handles, be sure to check on the switches and knobs in particular. Some tools have handles that can adjust in various ways or even be detached to penetrate into tight workspaces.


Top 8 Best Belt Sander Reviews

1. Makita 9404/2 Belt Sander

BEST PICK

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Makita 9404/2 Belt Sander

The Makita 9404/2 Belt Sander is designed to make light work of the toughest jobs including decking and floors. This sander comes with a 1,010 watt motor with variable speed control allowing it to take care of both demanding jobs and detailed tasks. The speed ranges from 210m/min to 440m/min, which means adjustments can be made to ensure the best finish. Moreover, this sander has been made in a way that it can and right up to the edges of a wall, perfect for sanding floors.

Yet the best attribute of this tool is that it operates quietly at around 85dB compared to many other models that are a bit louder. This means you won’t be a nuisance to your neighbours. Vibration is also very low, so you can use the tool for extended periods of time without getting tired.

Integral to its design is a handy dust bag that’s not only effective but also large enough that you won’t need to empty it out too frequently. Moreover, it can be attached to a dust extractor when using it in a workshop. The machine is additionally suitable for sanding wood, metal and plastic, plus its auto-tracking belt ensures the sanding belt is well-aligned to the material. Changing belts is also a breeze. Other additional features include a flat top for inverted applications and an extra-long cable for sanding runs.

Pros

  • Powerful 1,010-watt motor to handle tough applications.
  • Long 16.4ft power cord for easier manoeuvrability.
  • Can work on wood, metal, plastic and floors with ease.
  • Outfitted with a dust bag to ensure a clean working area.
  • Low noise (84 dB) for user comfort and less annoyance to neighbours.

Cons

  • May be awkward to use for one-hand vertical sanding.
  • Could be expensive for some.

Our recommendation

This Makita 9404/2 Belt Sander is an amazing investment for those doing a lot of woodwork, carpentry or DIY jobs, as well as for handymen and contractors. The product may be quite expensive but it lives up to its billing in terms of functionality and durability. With its powerful motor, the machine can handle wood, metal, plastic and several layers of paint with absolute ease.

It runs quietly compared to many others and its 16ft cord means you won’t need an extension cord for most jobs and you’ll enjoy excellent flexibility. This model scoops our ‘best pick’ award for the best belt sander and we’re sure you won’t regret this purchase.

Read next: Best power file sand for removing rust, paint and general sanding on tight spaces where a general sander cannot be used


2. Bosch PBS 75 A Belt Sander

Runner-up

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Bosch PBS 75 A Belt Sander

The Bosch PBS 75 A Belt Sander is the perfect power tool for coarse sanding jobs that demand high material removal rate on immense surfaces. Sanding large surfaces such as tabletops, large wooden pieces and even wooden floors doesn’t get any easier when using this power tool.

As a sander, working dust free is a top priority. The advantage of the PBS 75 A is that it integrates a Bosch microfilter system which delivers maximum dust collection, saving you a lot of clean-up time after a hectic day of DIY-ing.

Talking of its power, the PBS 75 A comes with a 710W motor making it one of the most powerful sanders in the DIY range. This motor has a high removal rate and that’s why it is ideal for sanding large surfaces.

It is also a pretty versatile machine because it can be positioned on its side or even upside down as a stationary tool. In addition, the belt doesn’t require manual alignment as it is auto held in the right working position.

Another thing with this tool is the precision and control it gives over your projects, thanks to the integrated Bosch Low Vibration system, which as well, makes it easy to use.

It also features Bosch Electronic technology that makes the process quite practical. It includes an accelerator function that allows adjustable speed settings for optimum adaptation to the surface. This results in a smooth, even and professional finish.

Easy handling and managing a power tool is of great benefit and the PBS 75 A is compactly designed for ease of use.

Pros

  • Fitted with the Bosch microfilter system for efficient built-in extraction of dust.
  • Features an automatic belt tensioning system for quick and easy changing of the belt.
  • Compact designed for improved manageability and handling of the tool.
  • Belt is auto held in the right work position while sanding so it requires no manual alignment.
  • Equipped with the Bosch Low Vibration system.
  • 3 Year warranty for extra peace of mind.

Cons

  • The dust bag replacement is awful and quite small so it fills up pretty fast.
  • The instructions are not straightforward, for instance, they don’t tell the direction to which the screw should turn when making adjustments but not a problem once you have worked it out.

Our recommendation

With the Bosch PBS 75 A Belt Sander, we are right to say that DIY jobs have met their match. The tool sands on various surfaces, especially large ones effectively, due to the powerful 710W motor and very fast sanding action.

We like the compact design of this tool that makes it easy to handle and manage whilst sanding. The versatility it offers is also a big plus in terms of tool positioning and sanding speeds.

The Bosch microfilter is a great feature for dust extraction but it could have been better with a large reservoir. The instructions are also not clear on the functions of some components of this tool.

The manufacturer says it can be used for stationery work but you will need to purchase additional accessories for this.

All in all, this is a good quality belt sander with the essential features for DIY jobs and comes with one of the best warranty periods at 3 years. Overall, it is a very impressive sander which is why we named it our ‘Runner Up’. We also noticed (at the time of our review) it was the best selling belt sander on Amazon.co.uk with over 1000 reviews, which further confirms the confidence people have in this product.


3. Black + Decker KA86 Belt Sander

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Black + Decker KA86 Belt Sander

Black and Decker are a famous household corporation with the mission to make work easier and as such, is the caliber of the BLACK+DECKER KA86 Belt Sander. It is an innovative and properly designed heavy-duty tool with a powerful 720W motor. This makes it ideal for sanding large surfaces such as floorboards, decking and finishing other works that require greater stock removal.

The belt sander features an angled belt design that enables you to sand 2 times closer to the edge of two adjoining areas, for instance, a floor and wall. This leaves a finer and superior finish compared to the conventional belt sander.

Another great feature of this tool is the automatic belt tracking. This helps to keep the belt in the right alignment whilst working on those crucial sanding tasks. So there is no worrying about the belt running off the rollers or having to adjust it now and then; you will only concentrate on sanding while the unit does its job.

This belt sander is robust and aggressive in nature and that means the belt must be replaced on a frequent basis. As such, this heavy-duty power tool integrates a quick change lever mechanism to guarantee fast and easy changing of the belt. And every time you fit a new sanding belt, the auto belt tracking mechanism ensures that the belt aligns true.

We all know the power tools that are comfortable to handle are the best. Such is the quality of the KA86 Belt Sander thanks to its ergonomic design. There is the main handle on the back which basically enables you to use the tool and a supportive handle on the front that gives you more control over the sanding material.

A belt sander is pretty aggressive and can produce a lot of dust. In that regard, this model comes with a dust bag that collects the sanding dust thus ensuring that you operate in a clean environment. Even so, sanding can only be fun when you are less worried about dust getting into your eyes, nose, ears and everywhere. We recommend using a dust mask when sanding no matter how good the dust collection system is.

Pros

  • Ideal for sanding floor boards, decking and other large areas that require high stock removal.
  • It has automatic belt tracking to keep the sanding belt in the correct position.
  • Includes a dust extraction bag for a clean working environment.
  • It has an angled belt design that allows you to sand 2 times closer to the edge of adjoining surfaces.
  • Integrates a lever action belt change mechanism for quick and simple accessory changing.
  • 2 Year warranty for extra peace of mind.

Cons

  • The quality of this tool is questionable because there are complaints on its lifespan but it is a budget model.
  • One speed only (not variable).

Our recommendation

The BLACK+DECKER KA86 Belt Sander comes from a reputable manufacturer stacked with all the features you will want in a belt sander. Talk of the powerful 720W, the automatic belt tracking mechanism, quick belt change and easy handling. The angled design is also a great attribute for reaching closer to adjoining surfaces. You will just love this package if your a home user.

As good as that sounds, unfortunately how long it will last is a major issue. So we find it ideal for mid-range jobs as opposed to the advertised heavy-duty tasks. We think it will execute mid-range tasks perfectly.

If you are looking for great features in a belt sander, the BLACK+DECKER KA86 Belt Sander is an excellent option. It is also one of the most affordable options and comes with a 2 year warranty which is more than adequate for home use.


4. Silverline 247820 Silverstorm Power Belt File Sander

BEST SANDER FOR HARDER TO REACH PLACES

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Silverline 247820 Silverstorm Power Belt File Sander

The Silverline 247820 Silverstorm Power Belt File with a unique file-like design and is complete with the desirable features you want in a belt sander. Its design is perfect for descaling, shaping mortises and joints, sanding and polishing of welds, plus sanding jobs in difficult corners and harder to reach areas.

It has a file arm measuring 130mm long with a maximum belt speed of 550m/min and it can adjust to the required angle making it unique in this respect. This compact belt sander can be used on wood, metal and plastics making it a very versatile tool.

The tool has a variable speed control dial that allows you to select and change the speed of belt spinning so as to achieve a particular rate of removal and finish. Of course, that depends on the materials at stake and the job you are working on.

There is a tensioning/release screw at the base of the file arm which is useful for tightening or loosening the belt to improve performance. It also makes belt removal and changing easy.

Featuring a dust extraction port, dust extraction is possible whilst you are working. There is an adaptor on the side of the belt sander where you can connect your method of suction to extract dust.

When it comes to the motor, the Silverline 247820 comes with an in-line motor unlike the more unstable side-positioned motor and it is able to power 260W. It is also a pretty lightweight machine weighing only 1.15kg compared to the other belt sander designs.

Worth mentioning is that this tool is supplied with 2 sanding belts; 80 grit and 120 grit belts, so you can get to work immediately. It is also compatible with 13x457mm sanding belts of varying grit.

Pros

  • Features a quick tensioning system that enables quick and easy belt changing.
  • Ideal for intricate sanding of a wide range of materials in harder to reach areas.
  • Pretty lightweight belt file weighing just 1.15kg.
  • It has variable speed control via an easily accessible dial.
  • It includes a tensioning/release screw that tightens or loosens the belt for improved performance.
  • It has a dust extraction port for effective removal of dust and debris.

Cons

  • Not suitable for heavy work, more of a hobbyist tool.

Our recommendation

This electric belt sander is surprisingly good. The slim design is great, easy to hold and easy to access tight corners. The fact that it works on wood, metal and plastic makes it a pretty versatile tool.

As compact as it is, it has the good features of a belt sander including variable speeds, dust extraction port, tensioning/release function and a relatively powerful motor. The light weight of this tool is also a really good thing because it makes it easy to use in more awkward situations.

However, the Silverline 247820 Silverstorm Power Belt works a bit slow. For that reason, we find it ideal for finishing tasks as opposed to removing much material. This can be a great addition to a belt sander for delivering those smooth, fine finishes.

It is also pretty cheap, and it is actually the cheapest belt sander to make it onto our list. Overall, we highly recommend the Silverline 247820 Silverstorm Power Belt for home tasks and lighter work but for more heavy-duty work it will disappoint. However, for its price, I don’t think we could ask for more.


5. Einhell EINRTBS75 240V Belt Sander

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Einhell EINRTBS75 240V Belt Sander

Equipped with a powerful 850W motor, the Einhell EINRTBS75 240V Belt Sander is one of the models with the most sanding power.  This means it can work on those heavy-duty tasks easily with speeds of up 400m/min. The belt speed itself is variable and this allows you to select the ideal removal rate depending on the material you are working on and the desired results.

This model can be handled with ease thanks to the well-built handles that allow you to move it freely over any surface. The second handle is specially designed to be adjustable so you have more control over directing the tool and the kind of sanding you can deliver. The handles have a soft-grip finish so they are not only firm to hold but also comfortable in the hand.

Working dust free is important to your work surroundings as well as your wellbeing. So, this model comes with a dust extraction adaptor and dust bag for collecting the sanding dust whilst you work.

This corded electric belt sander has a 3m long cable that allows you to work to a considerable length from the power outlet. There is also a cable clip that you can use to keep the cable in a secure position when necessary.

The sanding belt in this tool is easy to remove and replace. Also, note that it uses a belt size of 75x533mm. There is also a folding front cover which you will find useful for sanding underneath objects, such as the edge of tables, without needing to use it upside down.

Pros

  • Fitted with a powerful 850W motor to handle heavy jobs.
  • It has a variable belt speed for selecting specific removal rate.
  • It has an adjustable second handle that gives you more control over the material.
  • Includes a dust extraction adaptor and dust bag for ensuring a clean work environment.
  • Quick and easy belt change.
  • 2 Year warranty for full peace of mind.

Cons

  • There are a small number of reports of the motor burning out, however, this should be covered by the 2 year warranty if it hasn’t been abused.

Our recommendation

This is a very powerful belt sander thanks to the 850W motor which gives a fantastic finish.

We like the variable belt speed, the ease of control, the quick and easy belt change as well as the dust extraction ability.

Although with a powerful motor, we recommend the Einhell EINRTBS75 240V Belt Sander for light jobs. Overall, it is a cheap model, well designed, stacked with great features and all for a very reasonable price with 2 years warranty. 


6. Makita 240V 4-inch/100mm Super Duty Belt Sander

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Makita 240V 4-inch/100mm Super Duty Belt Sander

When it comes to power tools, Makita is one of the best brands, as evidenced by the Makita 240V Super Duty Belt Sander. This is a super powerful model fitted with a very powerful 1200W motor that enables it to do flush sanding on walls and other vertical surfaces as well as sanding floors, tabletops and other larger surfaces..

It boasts a wide belt (4×24 inches) that removes materials effortlessly and ensures a high production rate throughout. For a tool with such power you would imagine that it is noisy yet the Makita Super Duty Belt Sander is fairly quiet for a machine of such power and size producing only 84 decibels.

Talking of its construction, the tool has a robust design that covers its motor and other internal components from blockage and contamination from dust. The dust is collected in the supplied dust bag thus ensuring a clean working environment. In addition, the dust bag has double insulation and it can swivel 360 degrees.

A soft start dial is available for easy start up and there is a lever control for easy removal and changing of the sanding belt.

It’s ergonomically designed featuring a large front grip for easy handling while ensuring maximum comfort. At 7kgs, this Makita Belt Sander is a bit on the heavy side. The product also comes with a 2-year warranty.

Pros

  • Perfect for heavy-duty work.
  • A robust and very reliable machine.
  • It is comparatively quiet at only 84db making it ones of the quietest models in its class.
  • Features a soft start for easy start up.
  • It has a 4 x 24 inch belts that can reach speeds of 500m/min with ease.
  • Includes a dust bag for collecting waste and keeping the area dust free.
  • Ergonomically designed and well balanced for maximum operator comfort.

Cons

  • It is expensive compared to other belt sanders and quite heavy, however, it’s designed to last for many years and is a heavy-duty model which equates to the extra weight.

Our recommendation

The Makita 240V 4-inch/100mm Super Duty Belt Sander is a beast when it comes to power with its 1200W motor. This makes it ideal for sanding large surfaces thanks to its extended base. Its wide belt additionally makes it perfect for removing materials quickly.

The soft start dial is a great addition, keeping in mind that it is a rare feature to find in most other models. We like the quiet operation of this unit and the robust design. Nonetheless, we find it a bit heavy and very expensive.

This model is an excellent pick if you are looking for a powerful belt sander and especially if you are targeting larger surfaces. However, you will have to splash out to get one, making it more suitable for trade use or those looking for the very best and willing to pay the extra. A fantastic model that never misses and beat and will be still going strong in years to come.


7. Clarke CS4-6D Woodwork Belt and Disc Sander

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Clarke CS4-6D Woodwork Belt and Disk Sander

Supplied with a removable sanding table, the CLARKE CS4-6D Woodwork Belt and Sander can work with either a sanding belt or disc. The belt sander is the most useful in our opinion, allowing you to quickly switch it on and sand down wood and most plastics. The disc sander is a bit small, however, it is handy for sanding right angles against the wall.

The sanding belt features tilt and lock functions for use with various sanding applications at any angle between 0 and 90 degrees. With its 370W motor, this tool leaves smooth finishes on wood.

The safety features on this tool also give enough reason why the CLARKE CS4-6D is a great tool. They include a finger guard on the belt, full disc guarding and a locking on/off switch.

Speaking of the design, it features a robust cast iron construction that not only guarantees its toughness but ensures it lasts for many years to come. There is a dust extraction port that helps in getting rid of waste by connecting to a suction or dust extraction system.

Pros

  • The perfect choice for any workshop.
  • It comes with a removable sanding table for use with either sanding belt or disc for added convenience.
  • Incorporates all the important safety features including finger guard on belt, complete disc guarding and locking on/off switch.
  • Features a robust cast iron construction for rigidity and longevity.
  • It has a dust extraction port for getting rid of dust.
  • The belt tilts and locks at any angle from 0 to 90 degrees.
  • 1 year warranty extra peace of mind.

Cons

  • The dust extraction port is quite big, about 3 inches so you might need to hook it up to a stepped down 4-inch dust extraction or a stepped-up 2-inch vacuum setup.

Our recommendation

The Clarke CS4-6D Woodwork Belt and Disk Sander is a compact machine that comes with some distinct features. For instance, the ability to use it with a disc or a sanding belt is quite unique, making it ideal for sanding right angles against a fence. The safety features are great and dust extraction is possible using an external suction. It also has a good design and is sturdily built for years of use.

If you can properly fix the dust extraction, the Clarke CS4-6D Woodwork Belt and Disc Sander is a tool that will deliver fine finishes on tight corners for a long time.

Overall, a great setup for anyone with a little workshop or DIY enthusiasts.


FAQs

What is the belt sander used for?

Belt sanders are used for a variety of jobs and can complete projects in the shortest time. They are designed to be used on large, flat surfaces to level, smoothen or refinish wood, metal, and floors effectively. Belt sanders are also a great choice for some smaller projects. For instance, if you have a door that won’t close properly or tends to stick, you can remove it, shave off a bit on the bottom or side and that would be enough to solve the problem.

Can I use a belt sander on my deck?

Yes, but only to some extent. When sanding the deck, resist the urge to sand it down to a smooth finish because you would be damaging it in doing so. Deck wood needs to maintain its coarser finish to protect it from the elements. So when you are choosing sandpaper for this job, make sure to select between 60 and 80 grit.

Can you sand a wooden floor and what do I need to know?

A belt sander can sand a wooden floor, although a dedicated floor sander is a better tool for the job. Before you do anything, the room needs to be completely empty so you can move around with ease. Of course, you will need to be in your safety gear including sensible shoes, ear protection and a dust mask. Any protruding nails should be punched down to avoid ripping sandpaper or worse if the tool comes into contact with them.

For the actual sanding, start with coarse sandpaper, around 24 grit, to remove old layers of varnish and grime before moving on to use less coarse sandpaper such as 40 grit, 60 grit and 100 grit in that sequence. The finer sandpapers will smoothen things out for a neat finish.

Can you use a belt sander to remove paint?

Yes, it works and is such a simple thing to do. Start with a coarse grit belt of around 60 grit and keep upgrading the grit and working the area until you are happy with the smoothness. When removing paint, make sure to wear safety goggles to protect your eyes and a breathing mask to prevent airborne dust from getting to your lungs.


Final Conclusion

By now you must know that the belt sander is one of the most versatile types of sanders out there. For you to make the most out of this little machine, you will need to select the best belt sander from the plethora of options on the market. We suppose that should no longer be a challenge after reading our buyer’s guide and going through reviews of some high-quality belt sanders. Never forget to peep your nose into some customer reviews too because you can get a proper idea of a belt sander’s durability.

That being said, our favourite belt sander remains the Makita 9404/2 Belt Sander. Although an expensive option, it’s a purchase you won’t regret thanks to its incredible power, long power cord and adjustable speed for optimal operation.

We also recommend the Bosch PBS 75 A Belt Sander as a cheaper alternative to the Makita, and it can work on wood, plastic and metal. There’s even the extra convenience of using it on its side or upside down and it features variable speed.

Hopefully, the information above has been useful for your decision making.

Last update on 2024-10-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Welcome to my site, my name is John and I have been lucky enough to work in horticultural nurseries for over 15 years in the UK. As the founder and editor as well as researcher, I have a City & Guilds Horticultural Qualifications which I proudly display on our About us page. I now work full time on this website where I review the very best gardening products and tools and write reliable gardening guides. Behind this site is an actual real person who has worked and has experience with the types of products we review as well as years of knowledge on the topics we cover from actual experience. You can reach out to me at john@pyracantha.co.uk

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