How to Use a DA Sander – Dual Action Sander Use Step-by-Step Guide


A DA (Dual Action) sander is a very flexible tool for sanding or refinishing wood that can be used by anyone. This powerful sander consists of a head that can be moved in two directions while you are operating.

​You can move it in a forward or backward direction, and if you want to rotate it slightly in a circular motion, you can easily do that as well. 

Accordingly, you can surely utilize this sander for smooth and successful results for your DIY project. In order to achieve that, you first have to know how to use it properly. 

From the following article, you will get a complete guideline about DA sander use. Let’s check it out.

Get All the Required Equipment

​· Dual Action sander

· Sanding disk (approximately 5 inches)

· Palm sander 

· Sandpaper

· Vacuum cleaner

· Safety goggles

· Dust mask

· Wiping cloth (tack rag)

Steps To Use a DA Sander

Below, you will find out how to use a Dual Action sander from a step-by-step guide.

Step 1: Get Yourself Ready

Take all of the equipment to your work station. Wear safety goggles and a dust mask before you start cleaning the area with a vacuum cleaner. Clean the wooden board if necessary. 

Step 2: Choose the Right Sanding Disk

We highly recommend that you familiarize yourself with all the sanding disks that have different grit sequences. Each of the grit works best for different needs, so you should check which one is perfect for your wood. 

Usually, the disks come in multiple ranges between 60-grit and 220-grit. For paint removal, use a grit that is less than 80 for suitable results. This one is not suitable for fine wood, and if you use it accidentally, it will cause damage and might leave some heavy scratches. 

You will have to provide extra time and effort to solve this problem. If you have some deep scratches or saw marks, you can use a sanding disk between 80-grit and 100-grit. Start with 80, and if you are not feeling satisfied, level up the grit sequences. 

Likewise, if your wood is filled with stains you desperately want to vanish, use a 150-grit disk. To have a nice ending and for the finishing touch, the 220-grit disk will be best.

Step 3: Turn on the Dual Action Sander

Gently, place the DA sander flat onto the wood surface and turn on the power. Move the sand along the grain and take your time throughout this whole task. Keep the machine in constant motion and don’t leave it in a specific area for a long time. 

If this happens, the finishing won’t be smooth, and you might unintentionally create some additional problems. To remove the already existing scratches, sand the area constantly until the scratches vanish. 

At the same time, to sand the corners, you can use the sandpaper by hand. You can even check the smoothness of the edges with your finger during the process. For additional precautions, you can use the palm sander for sanding the unseen areas that you might have missed.

Step 4: Remove the Dust

Check the dust collection bag and clear it out. There might be some additional dust due to sanding; you should clean all of it by using a vacuum cleaner. Once you complete the cleaning process, take the tack rag and wipe the wood from start to the end. 

Accordingly, as you have finished the important part, it is time for you clean. The whole sanding process will undoubtedly create a huge amount of dust, and you can clean it off with the help of a vacuum cleaner. 

As the dust vanishes thanks to the cleaner, sweep the whole wood with the tack rag. Now your DIY project is complete. Cheers!

Conclusion

Make sure you follow the steps precisely. Have a fun and enjoyable time throughout your work!

Best of luck!

David Harper

I'm David, and I've been a craft & woodworking enthusiast for over 10 years. Sanders Guide is the place where I share some tips, tricks and reviews on all things DIY, tools and of course sanding!

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