How to Reduce Dust When Sanding Drywall

Published on: December 26, 2021
Written by Eric Devin / Fact-checked by David Rowan

Almost all of us already have the worst experience of dealing with drywall dust while remodeling our homes. During the time of drywall sanding, we try to protect our furniture, and other home equipment and also try to ensure the overall cleanliness of our house.

But the most dangerous part is that drywall dust is very hazardous to our health. Though drywall dust is really horrible, every homeowner wants to apply some tips for reducing dust. In this article, I will share some pro tips with you so that you can prevent dust from sanding drywall.

Tips to Reduce Dust When Sanding Drywall

Establishing a Plastic Barrier

Using a barrier is an effective way to reduce drywall sanding dust. People normally use plastic barriers to separate the workplace from the other rooms. Zipper system barriers will help you to have partial access to the workplace. This is the simplest tip for reducing dust during the drywall sanding process. You can buy a plastic sheet from any hardware store near your home.  

Using Dust Control Joint Compound

We know that the particles of drywall are like fine powders. So they can easily travel all around the workplace. The benefit of using a dust control compound is that it can make the dust heavier. So that the dust can not travel all around rather drop to the floor. It helps to stop the dust from spreading. 

But remember that using a dust control compound does not mean that you need not use any plastic barrier. The plastic barrier is a must if you do not want to cover the whole house with dust. This type of dust control compound is expensive and this is a major downside of using it. But for sanding small areas, this compound is cost-effective.

Using a Damp Sponge for Drywall Sanding

Using a damp sponge is an effective way to complete the sanding process without any hassle of dealing with dust. When you moisten the drywall with a damp sponge, the drywall compound will be dissolved. This process is quite slower than the dry sanding process. So if you are in a hurry and want to complete your drywall sanding project within a short time, you should think twice before applying the wet sanding process.

You need to immerse the sponge in water and press out the excess water.  Move the sponge in a circular motion on the drywall and continue the process until the surface becomes fully softened. This process will help you to get a dust-free sanding experience.  

Using a Drywall Vacuum Sander

You should choose a perfect drywall vacuum sander and then use the correct filter. Try to use a plaited filter instead of using foam or paper. A drywall vacuum sander has an additional pipe. The vacuum sander can suck the drywall dust and take it away through the pipe. 

There is a water container at the other end of the pipe so that the dust can come out through the pipe and fall into the water directly. But this vacuum sander also has a downside. Because of the suction system, it is tough to move the sander on the drywall. So you should use it only for small areas.

Install Temporary Dust Door

This technique is really helpful when you want to do drywall sanding in a room of your house. You need to make a temporary door that will be used only for sanding project purposes. This type of temporary door can be made of plastic and has a zipper system.  After that, close all other doors and windows so that the dust can not fly and spread to the entire house.

Depressurization of the Room

Select a window at the other end of the workplace and install a window fan. This system will help you to keep the dust inside the working area so that the entire house will not cover with dust.

What Equipment is Most Effective in Reducing Dust When Sanding Drywall?

When sanding drywall, the most effective equipment to reduce dust is an electric sander with a vacuum attachment. This equipment will help to suck up the dust created from sanding and prevent it from becoming airborne. Additionally, wearing a dust mask or respirator can help to reduce the amount of dust inhaled.

What is the Best Way to Minimize the Spread of Dust When Sanding Drywall?

The best way to minimize the spread of dust when sanding drywall is to wear a respirator and protective clothing, use a vacuum system to collect the dust, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the sanded area after each pass, and use a sanding block rather than a power sander.

Conclusion

We know that 100% dust-free drywall sanding is impossible. But by following some tricks, we can reduce the drywall dust. The above article is all about some hacks that will help you to have a better sanding experience. If you give some extra effort to prevent dust before you start working, it will make your task easy and hassle-free.

When sanding drywall, it is important to take the necessary steps in order to reduce the amount of dust created. Using a vacuum sander with a dust bag attached, wearing a dust mask, and wet sanding can all help reduce the amount of dust created when sanding drywall. Taking these steps will help keep the air clean and reduce the amount of dust created when sanding.

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