I've got a hefty stash of reclaimed tongue and groove cedar that needs some serious refinishing. I'm debating whether to: A. Invest in a benchtop planer to process over 150 boards, B. Install the T&G walls first and then sand them in place, or C. Consider an easier or cheaper alternative. What do you all think is the best route?
2 Answers
Definitely go with the planer! It’ll give you a smoother finish, and save you so much time compared to sanding. Who wants to hand-sand over 800ft of boards anyway? That’s just a recipe for frustration!
If you want the best finish, you should stick with the planer. A sander just won't give you the same result, and it'll take forever. But don’t forget to test a piece first to see how it turns out! Also, consider whether a benchtop drum sander might work for you for thinner stock; I've heard those can be pretty effective.
I planned to test a piece, but of course, the weather's not cooperating! Drum sanders look promising but seem pricier than planers. I'll have to research more.
Exactly! Sanding that much wood sounds like a total hassle. A planer is definitely the way to go.