What is a Drywall Sander?

Drywall Sander Guide

A drywall sander is a sander for specific use on plastered or drywall surfaces, to get them ready for painting or further coats of plaster.

They’re ideal for walls and ceilings and are quicker and easier than sanding by hand using an orbital or hand sander. They can also be used on similar drywall materials, such as coving and other decorative aspects in the home.

This should result in a smooth, polished effect. It gives you the ideal surface for painting, plastering, or wallpapering, as everything should be smooth and with no lumps.

HIRE DRYWALL SANDERS FROM SPEEDY

Why use a drywall sander?

A drywall sander is dedicated to sanding large surfaces. This will help save time and energy when sanding an entire wall.

Most come as long-neck drywall sanders, allowing you to reach the entire wall without the need to stretch or hire scaffolding/use ladders.

Compared to a regular pole sander, you will not need to apply as much pressure onto the wall and a drywall sander simply has to be glided along the surface.

You can hire a drywall sander from Speedy Hire, meaning you can do the job correctly and safely with professional tools.

How to use a drywall sander

Using a drywall sander is the final stage in installing drywall, or renovating an existing wall before plastering and/or painting.

There will be dust created so always remember your PPE. Eye protection, safety boots, a dust mask, and protective clothing are essential. Keep doors closed to limit the spread of dust, but windows open for airflow.

All required PPE can be purchased from Speedy Hire alongside your hire products.

Dry sanding should only be done once on a wall. It isn’t necessary between every coat of paint or plaster, and walls should only need spot sanding in future if necessary.

Drywall sanding should even out any lumps, and areas filled in with filler, and create a smooth finish.

Walls should be completely dry before sanding, and you should regularly vacuum while sanding to gather dust.

You will need:

• Drywall sander
• Sanding discs with a Velcro attachment
• Vacuum cleaner
• PPE

You only need to apply light pressure to the wall with the sander. The power of the wall sander will do all the work for you. Be aware that it can be quite heavy, so ensure you use the handles and feel comfortable holding it.

There is often the option to connect a dust collection device or industrial vacuum cleaner to the rear of the device. If so, connect this before beginning. This will reduce the amount of dust produced, but you still need to take precautions.

Most drywall sanders will have a swivelling head, meaning they maintain contact with the wall surface at all times when moving. A variable speed will allow you to stay in control.

Once done, your wall should be smooth and bump-free, with all imperfections removed, ready for painting or plastering.

IS THERE SURFACE PREPARATION EQUIPMENT HIRE NEAR ME?

Yes. Speedy Hire, the UK's leading tool hire company, have a range of surface preparation tools for hire nationwide, including drywall sanders, floor grinders and planers, scrabblers, and screeding accessories.

With over 200 local service centres across the nation, hire counters in selected B&Qs and nationwide 4-hour delivery, hiring the tools you need is simple and quick.

You’ll find all the tools you need right here. Why not open a Speedy account today online or visit us in your local depot to start hiring today?