Sanding is an art that in the past demanded a knowledgeable hand and keen eye in order to obtain consistent results. Today, Canadian Tire makes the job easier with a complete line of power sanders for every project on your list. To choose the right model, size up the type of sanding you need to do:

• Rough sanding: removing a finish from wood, smoothing tabletops or fibreglass patches
• Finish sanding: eliminating scratches, preparing surfaces for paint or varnish
• Detail sanding: sanding chair spindles or working in hard-to-reach areas

Terms you need to know:

• OPM: Oscillations per minute. The higher the OPMs, the quicker the sander will remove material.
• Variable speed: Lets you choose the best speed for the type of job or material you are working with.
• Dust collection system: Keeps your work area clean and the air more breathable.
• Dust-sealed switch: Extends switch life by preventing dust from seeping into the tool.
• Overmold on handle: Absorbs vibrations, making the tool more comfortable to hold.

Random orbit sander

Popular applications: Removing paint and varnish, cleaning metal, sanding before and after applying wood sealants and finishes.

This tool gets its name from its pads, which rotate in an orbital manner. The pads do this to save you the trouble of following the grain of the wood in order to achieve a swirl-free finish. Most models are easy to recognize by their round base.

Important features to shop for:

• Sturdy base with perforations for dust extraction
• Hook & loop attachments for quick sandpaper changes
• Light weight to reduce fatigue
• Comfortable grip to help you work longer with less hand fatigue
• Passive or active dust extraction system:
• Passive extraction sanders should include a vacuum adaptor
• Active extraction sanders should come with a dust bag
• An orbital speed of approximately 12,000 OPM (oscillations per minute) for efficient sanding

Finishing sander

Popular applications: Paint and varnish removal, surface preparation or refinishing

A finishing sander has squared-off pads that let you reach into corners. The pads oscillate in two planes (back and forth, and across) to prevent swirl marks. Available in 1/4- and 1/3-sheet sizes. Purchase sandpaper pre-cut to the size – or reduce costs by purchasing a roll or sheet and cutting it yourself. The widest variety of sandpaper and grit are available for finishing sanders.

Important features to shop for:

• Cast aluminium base with perforations for dust extraction
• Quick-release clamps to speed up sandpaper changes
• Comfortable handle for maximum sanding control
• Auxiliary handle on 1/3 -sheet models
• Active dust extraction system with a dust bag included
• Sandpaper hole-punching plate that will enable you to buy standard size sheets of sandpaper, cut them into quarters or thirds, and perforate them yourself to save costs
• Oscillating speed of at least 11,000 OPM (oscillations per minute) for efficient sanding

Detail sander

Popular applications: Sanding chair spindles and mouldings.

Ideal for small areas, this tool typically features a triangular-shaped pad for getting into corners and tight spots. Some models come with finger-shaped pads for sanding around slots and grooves. Detail sanders require custom-cut hook & loop sandpaper, available in a variety of grits.

Important features to shop for:

• Sturdy base with perforations for dust extraction
• Hook & Loop fastening system for quick sandpaper changes
• Light weight to increase comfort and reduce fatigue
• Ergonomic grip to give you greater confidence and control
• Passive or active dust extraction system:
• Passive extraction sanders should include a vacuum adaptor
• Active extraction sanders should come with a dust bag
• An orbital speed of approximately 12, 000 OPM (oscillations per minute) for efficient sanding

Belt sander

Popular applications: Removing the finish from a deck, trimming excess wood from bad joints, fairing boat hulls, smoothing fibreglass repairs.

Heavier and more powerful than other sanders, this tool removes more material in less time but requires a higher level of skill to operate. As its name implies, the belt sander employs a pulley-driven belt running at speeds up to 20 km/h. 3 x 21˝ is the most commonly used size and sanding belts come in a variety of grits, the most common being 60, 80 and 120.

Important features to shop for:

• Adjustable auxiliary handle for improved control
• 6A motor
• Variable speed for greater control
• Power switch with lock-on mode for continuous running
• Quick-release belt changing system to improve efficiency
• Easily accessible belt-tracking adjustment(s)
• Dust collection system to keep your work environment cleaner