This category covers sanding paper, discs, sheets and sanding belts for power sanders, aimed at DIY users, joiners and tradespeople. Most of our range comes from Bosch and Makita, with single products from Metabo and DeWalt. Abrasives are sold in packs, so check the size and grit before you order.
How to choose sanding paper and belts
Fit with your sander. The abrasive must match the tool exactly. Belts are specified by width and length, while discs and sheets depend on the sander's pad diameter or sheet size. If your sander extracts dust through holes in the pad, the paper needs a matching hole pattern to work properly.
Grit. A low number such as 40 or 60 removes material quickly and suits stripping paint or levelling rough timber. Grits around 80 to 120 are common for general smoothing, and 180 and above are for final finishing before oil, stain or varnish. Working through two or three grits in order gives a better surface than jumping straight to a fine one.
Abrasive type and backing. Aluminium oxide is the usual choice for wood, while other abrasives are made for metal, paint or stone. Hook-and-loop discs can be swapped quickly, whereas adhesive-backed paper stays put but is harder to change. Check that the product states which materials it is designed for.
Pack size and workload. Belts and discs wear faster on resinous wood, paint and filler, because the surface clogs. For one-off jobs a small pack is enough. If you sand regularly, a larger pack of the same grit is more practical than buying single sheets.
Sanding paper and belt brands we carry
- Bosch: the largest brand in this category, with abrasives made to fit Bosch random orbit, delta and belt sanders as well as many other makes of similar size.
- Makita: well known for its belt sanders and cordless tools, and its abrasives are matched to those machines, which makes them an easy choice for existing Makita owners.
Also in our range: Metabo and DeWalt.
Frequently asked questions about sanding paper and belts
What grit sanding paper should I use for wood?
Start with 60 to 80 grit for rough or painted wood, then move to 120 and finish with 180 or finer. Skipping steps leaves scratches that show under varnish. Bare, planed timber can often begin at 120.
How do I know which sanding belt fits my belt sander?
Check the belt size printed on the tool or in its manual, given as width by length in millimetres. The belt must match both measurements, as a belt that is too long or too short will not run on the rollers. Buying the same brand as the sander makes this easier but is not essential if the size is right.
Can I use the same sanding paper on wood and metal?
Sometimes, but it is not recommended. Paper designed for wood clogs quickly when used on metal or paint, and metal particles can then scratch timber later. Choose abrasives that state the material they are intended for, and keep separate sheets for each.
When should I replace sanding paper or a belt?
Replace it when sanding slows down, the surface looks glazed or clogged, or the grit has visibly worn away. Pushing harder with a worn abrasive heats the material and can burn wood or leave marks. Frequent changes usually give a better finish and put less strain on the sander.
