How to choose a machine for sanding walls and ceilings after puttying

When carrying out renovation work in an apartment, it is simply impossible to do without sanding the walls and ceiling, to which a layer of putty has previously been applied. After all, leveling walls is an extremely important procedure, performed in several stages, one of which is grinding.

When preparing walls for coating after leveling with putty, it is important that sanding is done quickly and efficiently with precise alignment of planes and angles, and in some cases, curved surfaces.

To make a choice, you need to clearly understand the purpose of each type of grinder. At first glance, the operating principle of grinding machines is the same - grinding the surface of a material using abrasive equipment. For each specific task, one type of sander will perform brilliantly, while another will not give the expected result. For example, eccentric machines cannot process internal corners, but vibrating sanders can do this. Let's analyze the types of grinding machines and determine the scope of application of each of them

In the process of carrying out these works, you can use ordinary grinding stones, both homemade and factory-made. However, this method is associated with a significant investment of time and effort, which can be avoided by resorting to the use of grinding machines.

To ensure ease of use, as well as increase the reliability of these devices, many of them are equipped with special dust collectors, which contain fine dust from putty. Also, for these purposes, connecting a special construction vacuum cleaner to the machine is often used.

Another feature of grinding equipment is the ability to adjust the speed of its moving parts.

Most modern grinders are equipped with a dust removal system: a construction vacuum cleaner is connected through a special connection or the kit includes a dust collection bag. This makes the work process cleaner, the tool itself is better controlled, and the consumption of abrasive equipment is reduced.

Based on the type of power supply, machines are divided into mains-powered and battery-powered. The advantages and disadvantages of cordless grinders are obvious - mobility and independence from the mains, but operating time is limited by battery charge.

Grinders from 1,800 rubles, the best price-quality ratio with fast delivery and my additional discount at the link >>>

Types of grinders

Based on the principle of operation, such devices can be divided into two main types: pneumatic and electric.

The main advantage of pneumatic models is their light weight and relatively low cost. Such devices are very often used as a professional tool, since even with prolonged use, hands do not get tired and labor productivity does not decrease. These positive qualities can be explained very simply - pneumatic devices do not have motors. Their working mechanism is driven by the pressure of compressed air supplied through a hose from a special compressor.

The main disadvantage of pneumatic sanders is the presence of a bulky compressor. In other words, such a tool can only work in a workshop where there is a possibility of supplying compressed air. That is why devices of this type are mainly used in car services and are rarely used for repair work. If such equipment is used to carry out repairs in your own apartment, you will have to additionally purchase an expensive compressor.

As for electric models, their main advantage is high mobility. It is almost always possible to connect to the mains, and using an extension cord is absolutely no problem. The disadvantages of power tools include their relatively large weight and overall dimensions, as well as their high cost.

If a grinding machine is chosen for renovation work in a house or apartment and will not be used in the future on large construction projects, then the obvious choice is in favor of electric models.

According to the method of influencing the surface being processed, grinders can be divided into the following groups:

1. Tape.
2. Vibrating.
3. Eccentric (orbital).

Let's take a closer look at each of these types of grinding machines.

Additional devices

Grinding machines are equipped with special dust collectors that collect fine dust that flakes off the putty. It should be noted that the dust collector will function only if there are special holes for dust in the abrasive. It is also worth taking a closer look at the material from which the filter is made. If it is made of paper, then it cannot be washed, and therefore this part will have to be changed often. The plastic filter will not cause any trouble: it can be washed and put back in place.

Belt sanders

In belt sanders, the equipment, an abrasive belt glued together in the form of an endless ring, moves in one direction along two end rollers, one driving, the other rotating freely. Linear grinding and high abrasive speed provide high productivity, but at the same time require increased control over the grinding process. Blade blades weigh up to 7 kg, and the electric motor power varies from 500 to 1500 W.

The three main standards of belt sanders are distinguished by the length of the sanding belt: 457 mm, 533 mm, 610 mm.

This tool is usually used to process large areas. This type of grinding machine uses an abrasive belt stretched over special rollers, the rotation of which causes constant unidirectional movement of the belt. Belt models have the highest productivity compared to their counterparts, but they are not suitable for final sanding.

Application

Belt sanders are suitable for rough grinding of surfaces made of wood, metal, plastic, and mineral building materials. Often used when removing old paint or varnish, leveling putty. Due to its high productivity, a large amount of material is quickly removed, and in combination with coarse-grained abrasive, the belt sander can perform the function of an electric planer. The quality of grinding is not the best indicator of this tool; cavities and scratches often appear during processing. Effective for sanding glued panels and processing convex-shaped parts. There are models with the ability to work upside down, stationary.

Using a belt sander, you can easily remove a layer of material of a few millimeters, make an edge or rounding on a workpiece, or remove old paintwork or rust. The following are subject to it: wood, metal, polymers, mineral building materials... Clear the paint from the floors - yes, correct the planed timber - please, level up the putty wall with defects - no problem. However, you should understand that high performance is not the best friend of quality; there will definitely be scratches and sinkholes. For finishing sanding you will need to use an orbital or surface sander.

When choosing a belt-type sander, you should pay attention to the following functions of the purchased device:

• Automatic belt centering. With the help of special rollers it is held exactly along the axis of movement. This function helps prevent the tape from slipping, so its presence significantly increases the ease of use of this tool.

• Connection pipe for vacuum cleaner. Almost all modern models of sanding machines are equipped with a similar product, but this does not negate its importance for preventing the appearance of large amounts of dust from putty in the room where repair work is being carried out.
• Additional rollers included in the design of the sander make it possible to eliminate the appearance of so-called dead zones when sanding close to walls.
• It is no secret that the performance of an electric tool is directly proportional to the power consumption of its motor - the higher it is, the more we can squeeze out of a particular unit. In the case of LSM, the consumer has the opportunity to choose from models with a motor from 0.5 to 1.2 kW
• The next important characteristic for a belt sander is speed. A fast machine will do more, but it will not be possible to pin it down if its outstanding speed is not supported by additional power. This is all due to the notorious torque, which says that the more speed a tool has, the less power it has left. The belt speed in these grinders can be in the range of 150–550 meters per minute. The question may arise : why produce fast but relatively weak blades at all? It’s just that a super-productive (fast and at the same time strong) car is more difficult to control, it is heavier, larger, and more expensive. If pressed excessively, it can easily ruin the workpiece. In turn, with maneuverable, high-speed lightweights, it is convenient to process a large surface area in a short time, often “on the spot.” If you don’t yet know what kind of loads await the grinder, choose a slower model that can be pressed a little, so it will be more versatile. An excellent option for a powerful and fast model with home delivery at the link >>>
• The kit may include a stand or special clamps designed for stationary fastening of the tool (very convenient for processing small parts). The grinding frame serves as a kind of limiter that helps to avoid damage to the workpiece.
• Special attention should be paid to the dimensions of the working plane - the sole, respectively, the length and width of the tape. Wide soles (100 mm) are common on powerful professional models, making them more stable and usually limited to 75 millimeters. The long and wide sole of expensive blades has a complex design, consisting of a backing and an elastic plate, which allows for constant, uniform contact between the sandpaper and the part; such a tool “holds its plane” well.

USEFUL INFORMATION: Mixtures for leveling the ceiling: which putty is better?
Belt grinders on AliExpress, now they have fast delivery from two days and there are unique offers at prices starting from 2,100 rubles , use my link for an additional discount >>>

Principle of operation

The design of the putty grinder consists of a horizontal plane with abrasive paper attached. The basis of the working element is fixed in several ways, which are reflected in the principles of operation of the equipment.

Fixation with a clamp is a popular and easy-to-use method for household sanders. The shape of the clamp is similar to a latch on a spring. For these models of units, the sanding sheet is prepared independently from sandpaper. This will reduce the cost of replacing abrasives.

In addition, this element can be fixed with Velcro. Such equipment is expensive and does not require independent preparation of grout paper. The tools provide for the removal of dust produced during the grinding process using a vacuum cleaner or dust collector. The presence of the former in the machine allows you to perform work more quickly without interruptions to clean the tank.

Tape

This type of grinding machine is used to prepare the base for applying decorative plaster or other types of finishing. Belt units are used to remove old paints and are not suitable for grouting putty or plastered surfaces.

Models for domestic use are inexpensive, but are designed for a small number of applications. Professional belt equipment can be used for different conditions, including heavy workload. The machines are equipped with an abrasive belt, which is placed on rollers.

Eccentric orbital

Orbital eccentric sanders are used for fine processing of substrates. The abrasive part of the tool moves along a complicated trajectory, ensuring thorough grinding of surfaces. The sandpaper in this unit is secured with Velcro. The main purpose of eccentric machines is to finish walls after puttying and polishing.

Special eccentric machines for processing large spaces are also produced. The models have an ergonomic telescopic handle and are equipped with a gearbox. These machines can be equipped with large grinding wheels with a diameter of 215-225 mm. An additional option for the units is the removal of old paint layers from surfaces, grinding stone and concrete bases.

The use of units reduces labor costs and operating time. The models are very expensive and are recommended for purchase for regular use.

Vibrating flat

Equipped with a clamp for fixing sandpaper. In terms of the quality of work, the equipment is similar to eccentric ones, but the cost of the units is lower. The surface grinding equipment is equipped with a rectangular sole, on which sandpaper of the required grit level is fixed using clamps. Grain sizes are selected in accordance with the tasks being solved. For puttying on walls, sandpaper No. 100-120 is used, metal bases are sanded with machines No. 40-80. Wood processing is carried out using sandpaper No. 180-240.

A subtype of vibrating products are delta grinding units. The sole of the equipment is made in the form of a triangle. The equipment is suitable for grinding hard-to-reach spaces (corners, joints, arches, openings). This type of machine is optimal for sanding flat surfaces (walls, ceilings, wood products).

When purchasing vibration models, the sandpaper fixation technique is selected.

Electric file

There are special-purpose belt sanders, so-called belt files or electric files. Often used for cleaning welds and grinding materials in hard-to-reach places.

Only certain equipment with a width of 9 to 30 mm is suitable for electric files.

Such belt sanders weigh much lighter than conventional ones - 1-2 kg.

A nozzle for a turbine in the form of an electric planer from 1,500 rubles and fast delivery to Ali Express at the link >>>

Putty station solution

At the present stage, when performing large volumes of construction work, mixing and applying a significant amount of different mixtures is required. Therefore, for these purposes, manufacturers offer a special device - a putty station. This equipment is universal and designed to facilitate the work of the master. The main task of the equipment is to prepare putty for machine application from dry matter and quickly supply it to the point of application. Some systems are equipped with continuous mixers.

After pouring the mass into the tank, after a short period of time the finished suspension flows through the pump. The correct proportions are ensured by the electronic system of the device. The putty applicator produces the following mixtures:

• plaster;
• cement and cement-sand;
• lime-gypsum;
• lime-cement;
• for masonry;
• plaster mortar.

Mixtures of sand and cement are used for application to the facade of the building; gypsum putty is suitable indoors.

Using the device you can perform these types of finishing.

1. Creation of self-leveling floors.
2. Puttying and applying plaster.
3. Providing quality cement screeds.
4. Distribution of adhesive mixtures.
5. Waterproofing using special mixtures.

Surface grinding or vibrating models

This is perhaps the most common type of grinding tool. Its most typical representative is the surface grinder. It is a device equipped with a rectangular sole, onto which a sheet of sandpaper having the required grain size is attached using special clamps. Different grades of sandpaper are used for different types of putty.

Another type of such tool is a delta sander . According to the principle of operation, it is no different from devices of the previous type, however, it has a triangular working sole (iron), which can become indispensable when working in hard-to-reach places (for example, when sanding corners). We'll tell you more about them a little later.

Operating principle: the sole performs reciprocating movements in a circular orbit, due to this grinding or polishing is carried out. The power of the electric motor of this tool is from 150 to 600 W.

Surface grinder on Ali Express from 1,800 rubles with fast delivery via the link >>>

The most important indicator of the PSM is the amplitude of the sole stroke . It may vary in different models, although it is invariably a relatively small value. On average for the class, the platform moves by 1–3 mm; in more mobile models, figures of 5–6 mm may appear. A larger amplitude helps to polish the surface faster, but such processing will also be rougher.

Another nuance is the frequency of the sole stroke . At high speed the machine will quickly remove a relatively thicker layer, while at lower speed it is easier to achieve a precise finish sanding. Some manufacturers make the frequency of movement of the platform variable, exceeding 20,000 strokes per minute, which allows you to adapt to the processing of different types of materials and the characteristics of specific surfaces.

The sole comes in two types: standard - 100 x 200 mm, and mini - miniature versions with a base of about 100 x 100 mm. Budget cars are equipped with a platform made of steel or high-strength plastic, while more expensive analogues are equipped with cast platforms made of alloys containing aluminum or magnesium. A good sole is distinguished by precise balancing , which is easily determined by a low degree of vibration when operating without load (idling). It is also important what the pad is made of ; the most suitable option is a porous polymer; it “holds” the plane better than rubber.

The choice here is simple: mini surface grinders are suitable for narrow spaces, they are lighter and more maneuverable than standard ones.

Application

Designed for delicate processing of large flat surfaces. They occupy an intermediate place in terms of the cleanliness of processing parts between belt and eccentric ones. Using a surface grinder, finishing sanding of various surfaces is carried out: wood, plastic, stone.

Advantages: the ability to grind and polish internal corners, availability of consumables and moderate cost of the grinder itself.

Disadvantages: high noise relative to orbital ones.

Delta vibratory sanders

The peculiarity of this instrument is its compact, lightweight body - the instrument weighs up to 1 kg; delta-shaped sanding pad, which is why these machines are called “iron”. Electric motor power up to 300 W.

Grinding in hard-to-reach places is carried out due to the fact that the triangular sole makes rapid vibrations with a small amplitude. The accessories (sanding sheets) for this tool are not sold everywhere and are more expensive than paper-based sanding belts or grinding wheels.

Application

Using a delta sander, fine grinding of protrusions, blind corners, edges, profiles, cleaning of exposed glue, processing of objects with small parts and complex surfaces are performed.

Delta grinder “iron” for 1,500 rubles using my link. Excellent reviews, fast delivery, quality product. View >>>

Particularly good in carpentry, furniture making, staircases, and automotive body work, used as a main tool or in addition to eccentric or orbital sanders.

USEFUL INFORMATION: Decoding of VVG wire: application and technical characteristics

Dust protection

Sanding walls after puttying involves the presence of a large amount of dust. If you work with a grinder in a closed room, it will soon be filled with lime, and it will be completely impossible to stay in it. Also, dust will penetrate everywhere and it will be very difficult to get rid of it. Therefore, it is advisable to prepare in advance for dust removal. Of course, small works can be carried out without this.

It would be a good idea to cover all pieces of furniture, windows and more. If the work is carried out with machines, then they have a special connector for connecting a vacuum cleaner. It will suck out dust while sanding. This will also be useful for manual work. Such activities are carried out exclusively in a respirator and special clothing.

Eccentric models

In everyday life, these sanders are often called orbital sanders. They received this name because of the peculiarities of the movement of the round working sole, which simultaneously rotates around its axis and moves in an orbit with a small radius.

The sole rotates in orbit and simultaneously scrolls around its axis. This complex movement of the abrasive allows for efficient grinding with minimal imperfections. Sandpaper is attached to such a tool using Velcro.

Random orbital sanders are considered the most effective and versatile tool for polishing and grinding surfaces. In industrial production and private use they show the best results in surface quality.

The machine weighs from 1 to 3 kg, is equipped with a round sole with Velcro, to which an abrasive wheel on a felt basis is attached. The soles come in two sizes - diameter: 125 and 150 mm. Machines with a 125 mm soleplate are lighter, designed for smaller areas and for more delicate work than sanders with a 150 mm soleplate. Electric motors consume between 200 and 900 watts - more power means more performance.

Random orbital sander from 2,000 rubles on Ali Espress. Verified seller, fast delivery, good reviews. View >>>

Orbital machines also have differences in the speed of translational motion. If we talk about rotation, this figure can be from 4 to 14 thousand eccentric revolutions per minute for models with adjustment, and about 12,000 for models without it. If we talk about the concept of “fluctuation”, then these figures will be half as much. In fact, everything is simple here: the higher the speed, the rougher the processing will be, but the faster the work can be done.

The eccentric of orbital machines may not have the same “span” - from 2 to 7 mm. This is called the amplitude of the oscillation. The smaller it is, the less vibration the device generates, the more compact the plate moves, the smaller the area we process, but the cleaner the grinding will be. In some ESMs, the operator can set a certain amplitude, affecting the productivity and fineness of grinding.

When installing the equipment, it is important that the holes on the sander sole coincide with the holes in the abrasive wheel, otherwise the dust removal process will be difficult.

Grinding Features

Sanding is performed after the layer of putty or plaster has dried. It is optimal to wait at least 24 hours to obtain a reliable, durable decorative layer. It is recommended to inspect defects on the foundations (walls, ceiling). A flashlight is turned on to highlight defects on surfaces. Irregularities are marked with a pencil.

Then an abrasive mesh with the required grit level is attached to the grinding machine:

• No. 60-80 - used for rough cleaning of panels before gluing wallpaper;
• No. 100 - suitable for finishing sanding of ceilings.

Sanding is performed with rotational movements until a smooth base is formed. The top coat of putty is usually gentle, so no strong pressure on the tool is required; it is optimal to move the nozzle along the base without pressure.

The base of the machine should fit tightly to the surface of the wall or ceiling. The sandpaper is positioned parallel to the base being sanded; the movements must be uniform to prevent the formation of distortions on the working surface. The thoroughness of the work is assessed when the flashlight is turned on.

Application

They are used for rough or fine grinding on large surfaces, for interlayer processing of materials and coatings, for polishing, processing large surfaces along and across the grain. Often machines of this type are used in carpentry and car painters. Using ESM, volumetric, profile and curved surfaces are processed. When working with an eccentric sander, it is unlikely to damage the workpiece: make abrasions, burn the material, or overdo it with the grinding depth. The noise and vibration levels are lower than other types of grinding machines.

Tools

It is impossible to perform high-quality sanding of walls after puttying without special material and tools.

• Sandpaper is the most common and affordable material. Using sandpaper, you will also need a wooden beam on which to attach this material;
• Sanding mesh - sold in specialized stores. The kit will also require a special holder with clamps. The mesh, as well as sandpaper, is selected by numbers. The smallest number is used when finishing sanding;
• Grinder machine.

Experts recommend: for high-quality and fast grinding, use a special grinding machine. With the help of such a tool, the work will be completed efficiently and quickly.

Sanding machine for putty, walls and ceilings

There are special representatives of grinding tools that are designed for working with large areas on walls and ceilings, grinding plaster and putty. A special feature of such models is the presence of a convenient telescopic handle and gearbox, as well as the ability to install large-diameter grinding wheels on them (usually 215 or 225 mm). Sanders for walls and ceilings can be used not only to smooth putty surfaces, but also to remove old paint and varnish coatings, as well as for grinding stone or concrete walls. The use of such a tool will significantly reduce the time and labor required for grinding work.

How to grind (sand) a surface

The tool has been selected, the necessary measures have been taken, and now you can sand the walls after puttying. It is important that there is good lighting, then all the irregularities will be visible. It is better the flaws immediately. A simple pencil is suitable for this. Sanding starts from the top corner and then goes down. In this case, an area of ​​up to one meter is captured. The movements should be spiral-shaped, with slight pressure. The same applies when working with the ceiling.

When sanding putty, avoid applying strong pressure to the surface.

Excessive effort should be avoided. By pressing hard, you can create dents that can only be removed with new putty. The main thing is that in order to get a flat (smooth) surface, you cannot change the abrasive material. The more appropriate the work is to finish, the better it is to start. When sanding a ceiling, it is very important to maintain uniformity of effort.

READ Tool for plastering walls with your own hands

DEKO hand grinder

The trusted manufacturer of construction equipment DEKO (1,400,000 subscribers on Ali Express) has released an excellent grinding machine, a workhorse. 2 models - with and without backlight. Productive, lightweight, with built-in dust extraction. View >>>

Characteristics:

• Power - 900 Watt.
• Speed ​​adjustment from 1,400 to 2,700 rpm.
• 360 degree backlight. It will show defects that need to be sanded down.
• No dust! Built-in dust extraction with collection bag. Work clean!
• Easy to replace abrasive.
• Ideal for sanding walls and corners. Not a lot of weight and a large working area!

Delivery from 3 days. 1,260 orders. 625 positive reviews, including from professionals.

Suitable for grinding: plaster, putty, polymer coatings, paint, decorative plasters.

Follow the link for a lower price and a personal discount coupon. View >>>

Let's look at the main characteristics of grinding machines.

• One of the main characteristics of a power tool is power. Power ensures the productivity of the tool (in this case, the amount of material removed during the grinding process), the service life of the grinder and the duration of continuous operation also depend on power. Thus, if you plan to carry out professional grinding of large areas, then it is better to opt for grinders with an electric motor power of more than 500 W.
• The efficiency of work will also depend on the diameter of the grinding disc (sole), i.e. The larger the diameter of the working surface of the disk, the larger the area that can be processed per unit of time. Most construction sander discs have a diameter of 150 to 225 mm.
• Dust removal, or rather its efficiency, plays a very important role, because... directly affects performance. Dust removal can be carried out forcibly using an industrial vacuum cleaner or into a special dust bag (usually supplied with the tool). Professionals recommend using a vacuum cleaner.

Safety precautions

When carrying out the procedure, it is important to consider the following safety requirements:

1. Sanding walls treated with putty is a dusty finishing operation, so the work is carried out in a respirator and safety glasses. Furniture is removed from the room in advance, the floor is covered with plastic film to prevent dust in the space.
2. The room is cleared of unnecessary objects that impede safe movement around the space with the instrument.
3. The lighting in the room must be of high quality for grinding with a machine in a safe mode.
4. The work is carried out using ladders or special stepladders.
5. The safest machines are those equipped with a long handle to reduce the risk of falling from the stairs when finishing.
6. Construction sanders are electric and can therefore generate sparks. Work is not carried out near flammable liquids or objects.
7. Grinding with the machine is not interrupted, so the room is cleared of children and animals for safe work.
8. If a strong smell or loud sounds appear from the machine, the equipment is turned off and sent to the service center specialists for inspection.
9. Safe operation is ensured for electrical appliances. The plug from the machine must go into the outlet. It is not recommended to replace machine plugs to prevent fire. Only original elements ensure safe work. If the machine has a ground connection, the use of adapters is not allowed.

Experts recommend using equipment from trusted manufacturers. The list of rated and reliable in operation includes grinding machines of the brands Interskol, Makita, Sturm.

Grinder with telescopic handle

Characteristics:

• Power - 980 Watt.
• Speed ​​adjustment from 500 to 2,100 rpm.
• Length from 1.4 meters to 1.9 meters - comfortable work with ceilings!
• 360 degree backlight and additional flashlight. It will show defects that need to be sanded down.
• No dust! Built-in dust extraction with collection bag. Work clean!
• Easy to replace abrasive.
• Ideal for sanding walls, ceilings and corners. Light weight, telescopic handle and large working area!

Delivery from 3 days. Positive reviews, including from professionals.

Suitable for grinding: plaster, putty, polymer coatings, paint, decorative plasters.

Follow the link for a lower price and a personal discount coupon. View >>>

Motor location

There are two options: the electric motor is located directly above the grinding disc and the option with the electric motor located remotely, i.e. on the handle. Accordingly, the disk drive (rotational movement) is transmitted either directly (an electric motor above the disk) or through a flexible shaft (the electric motor is located remotely). Both types of drive are quite reliable, but professionals often prefer direct drive. The layout of the grinder with an electric motor located above the grinding disk makes it possible to carry out more efficient dust removal due to vacuum. Some vacuum is created above the working surface of the disk due to the fan located above it. This ensures effective dust removal even without using a vacuum cleaner. Dust is collected in a special bag that can hang on the operator’s shoulder. The vacuum type of dust removal is not carried out on machines with a disk drive from a flexible shaft. Despite these advantages, sanders with an electric motor located above the sanding disc are heavier than sanders with a remote motor. This makes work difficult, especially with the telescopic rod extended to its maximum (a type of machine with a variable handle length, see Handle type below). Although on some models the vacuum effect is so deep that it allows the sander to literally stick to a vertical wall.

USEFUL INFORMATION: Self-cleaning water filter without replaceable cartridges

Handle type

An extended handle of a sander, often called a "giraffe". The handle can be either fixed length or variable (telescopic). The extended handle of the grinder is convenient for processing surfaces remote from the operator, such as ceilings and high walls. The grinding head itself has a sufficient number of degrees of freedom for grinding at any angle required by the operator.

Which grinding produces the best surface quality?

There is an opinion that only manual grinding gives the best surface quality; grinding with a machine is not faster, and hand grinding is the fastest and highest quality.

This myth is nothing more than a myth. The flatness of the sole provides the necessary flatness. Adjusting the speed helps to select the grinding pace, and the use of grinding material with finer abrasive grains provides the necessary and sufficient level of surface quality with a significant increase in productivity. If we remember that, as a rule, in the old fashioned way for manual grinding, many people use abrasive material of one grain - 100, then this conclusion is not surprising. Yes, you can use sandpaper with one grain, changing the pressure and frequency of movements to bring the surface to an ideal one. You can also dig up the entire field with a shovel... But you and I do not need pure cheapness of work (although this is debatable with manual operations), but a significant increase in productivity while maintaining the specified quality and low costs per square meter. This is exactly what mechanized grinding systems provide (electric grinders combined with dust removal equipment). It is also important to select the right abrasive materials, and if necessary, then you can and should use abrasives of finer grains: 180, 240, 320, 400.

But for assessing the quality of grinding, hands are often more suitable than eyes. It’s not for nothing that women, who naturally have better tactile sensitivity, work as controllers in grinding shops. If you are still used to working manually, then it is better to work with at least dust removal. In this case, you need a set of grinders for all occasions: from small to large “plane”.

How to sand putty correctly?

After applying the putty mass, it should be sanded. Depending on the type of putty applied, abrasive materials are also selected.

For coarse (fraction 0.5 mm - 2 mm) and abrasive material is needed more aggressively with a grain of 40 / 60 / 80 / 100 - selected individually due to the differences in the compositions and properties of the putty from different manufacturers.

In the process of grinding “finishing” putty, which has a fraction of no more than 0.1 mm, abrasive materials of a smaller grain size – up to 400 – can be used.

Of course, the quality of the polished surface depends on the quality of the putty itself in the first place. If your “finishing” putty has a too coarse fraction/grain size (as a rule, these are cheap materials), then it will not be easy to achieve good quality with any grinding. And these are labor costs that neither you nor the Customer need. In addition, a poorly prepared mixture also causes a lot of trouble.

Therefore, professional Craftsmen with extensive experience do not use cheap materials - it is more expensive for themselves. By the way, a properly selected mixer with a suitable stirrer (whisk) ensures better preparation of the mixture. And with tight deadlines and high customer requirements, it is more advisable to use liquid putties prepared by the manufacturers themselves with strict adherence to the necessary requirements for the composition and properties of the mixture.

Don’t forget about the quality of the putty process itself: the cleaner the putty is applied, the less sanding it takes. As the ancient rule of a painter says: “When putting putty, leave less “snot”; you won’t rub it off when sanding your arms up to the elbows .

Useful supplies and accessories

When processing large volumes, additional supplies and accessories will not be superfluous.

In particular, an additional extension (each manufacturer has its own), which increases the working height available for work from the standard 2.6 m to 3.5 m.

And the use of a support vest with a belt (like Festool) will increase the convenience of work and the productivity of processing ceiling surfaces. Scaffolding and stepladders will not be superfluous.

TIPS FROM THE MASTERS

Professional craftsmen with extensive experience usually have in their assortment: a large grinding machine with a 225 mm wheel, a small grinder with a 125-150 mm wheel and a couple of hand grinders. This set allows you to work as flexibly and productively as possible.

As for a construction vacuum cleaner , it is better to purchase a vacuum cleaner not end-to-end, as is often customary, but with a reserve. Therefore, a vacuum cleaner with an actual volume of more than 30 liters is most optimal. It is worth considering that many manufacturers indicate the effective volume, not the actual one. The actual is equal to the effective minus the volume occupied by the filter.