A belt sander is a power tool that uses an abrasive belt to sand down woods. It’s a common tool used by carpenters and home improvement enthusiasts alike. There are a few reasons why you might want to use a belt sander on your deck.
First, it’s a quick way to remove the finish or sealant from the surface of the wood. This can be helpful if you’re planning on refinishing your deck or if you need to remove any old paint or sealant.
Second, belt sanders can help remove any scratches or blemishes from the surface of the wood. This helps restore your deck surface if it is starting to look a little worn down. Finally, belt sanders can help make your deck look more polished and finished.
In this article, we will review the 7 best belt sanders for deck available in the market. Whether you need a powerful and heavy-duty sander for large projects or a lightweight and portable sander for small jobs, we’ve got you covered.
Best Belt Sander for Deck Reviews
1. Makita 9403 Belt Sander for Deck Refinishing
To kick off this review article is the Makita 9403 4″ x 24″ Belt Sander. This is a professional-grade sander that is perfect for anyone who does woodworking, carpentry, furniture making, floor installing, and deck building. Let’s see how it performs!
The first thing you’ll notice about the Makita 9403 is its medium size and large front grip for easy handling. With its noiseless (84dB) 11-amp, 120V motor, and large 4″ x 24″ belt size, this power tool will tackle both big tasks and small jobs.
The sander motor speed of 1,640 ft/minute ensures you get the job done in less time! Plus, its electronic speed control maintains constant speed under load. Thanks to the Labyrinth construction, the sander stays sealed and protected from dust and debris, resulting in longer tool life with less maintenance. Makita also has a one-year warranty on it.
The Makita 9403 sander comes with a dust bag that swivels 360° for more convenient operation. The dust bag attaches to the sander and collects the dust as you sand.
Benefits
- It has a powerful, noiseless motor.
- This sander features an ergonomic handle and design, making it easy to use.
- The manufacturer has a one-year warranty on it.
- It comes with a dust bag to keep your workspace clean.
Drawbacks
- You may not get a brand new sander right out of the box.
- Its dust collector doesn’t last long.
2. Metabo HPT SB8V2 Belt Sander
If you’re a professional woodworker or a hobbyist, the Metabo HPT SB8V2 belt sander is a great tool to have in your workshop. This versatile sander can be used for a variety of tasks, from sanding down rough lumber to finishing off stairs, floors and decks.
With its powerful 9 amp, 1,020 watts motor, and variable speed settings (820 – 1,475 ft/min) for various applications, the SB8V2 sander can handle any job you throw at it. The motor has an 87dB no-load noise level, which means it operates quietly. And its lock-on button ensures it stays on during operations.
The Metabo HPT SB8V2 belt sander features a 3″ x 21″ V-belt to help you power through even the toughest projects. However, it goes out of whack constantly.
That said, Metabo HPT designed this sander with a flush surface for quick and leveled sanding. It has a transparent front cover that gives you unrestricted visibility when sanding. Thanks to its durable construction, it can withstand even the most strenuous projects. However, the sander is heavy and wide, so you can’t use it in tight spaces.
Another feature of the SB8V2 sander is its left-side mounted dust collection system. The built-in dust bag does capture some sawdust created by sanding, but it leaves quite a lot to be desired because it malfunctions by releasing the dust back to the atmosphere.
Best of all, this sander is backed by Metabo HPT’s reputation for quality and durability, having a massive five-year limited warranty.
Benefits
- The manufacturer backs it with a five-year warranty.
- It works well for a large project.
- The sander has a variable speed setting, making it versatile.
- Thanks to the lock-on feature, it stays on during operations.
Drawbacks
- The dust collection system malfunctions.
- This sander isn’t ideal for a small project.
- The belt goes out of whack constantly.
3. CRAFTSMAN CMEW213 Deck Sander
The CRAFTSMAN 3” x 21” deck sander is a powerful and versatile addition to any woodworker’s or carpenter’s toolkit. Its 3” x 21” angled sanding belt can quickly remove material from surfaces. The sander 7 amp motor comes with a 6 ft 115 volt A.C. power cord that is durable and long-lasting.
However, both the sander and the belt can’t withstand a lot of wear and tear, making them not suitable for large projects. The CRAFTSMAN 3” x 21” belt offers a maximum speed of 800 FPM for fast material removal. Additionally, the tool-free belt release allows fast belt changes.
Thanks to the three-position over-molded ergonomic handle, you’ll have a comfortable experience handling it during use without hand fatigue.
This sander also has a high-performance dust collection system with an onboard dust bag that helps to keep your work area clean. Plus, its compact size makes it easy to maneuver and store. It costs below $80, making it perfect for anyone who doesn’t want to spend much to acquire a sander.
The manufacturer, CRAFTSMAN, has a 3-year warranty on it. It is also compatible with the CRAFTSMAN VERSATRACK wall organization system.
Benefits
- This sander is affordable and offers excellent value for money.
- It comes with a 3-year warranty.
- The sander is easy to use and has an ergonomic three-position over-molded handle.
- It’s great for small projects.
Drawbacks
- The sander doesn’t run quietly.
- It doesn’t have enough power for large projects.
4. RIDGID GEN5X Cordless Belt Sander
Are you tired of the hassle with cords when using a sander? If you are, then you’ll want to check out the RIDGID 18-Volt GEN5X cordless 3” x 18” belt sander.
This sander is cordless and operates with an 18 volts battery, so you don’t have to worry about being tethered to an outlet. It operates with a brushless motor, which means it’s more powerful and efficient than a traditional sander. However, you’d have to purchase the 18-volt battery and charger separately.
The RIDGID 18-Volt GEN5X belt sander is perfect for sanding small to medium-sized projects. It has a variable speed dial with 400 – 935 FPM speed setting to suit different sanding applications. It also features a flat face for sanding evenly against a vertical surface.
This sander belt automatically adjusts to the center plate for straight alignment. RIDGID equipped it with a toolless belt release that allows you to change/replace the belt effortlessly.
Benefits
- It is a cordless sander, so you won’t go through the hassle of cords.
- It has an auto adjust belt system
- It is easy to use and transport because of its cordless design.
- Its brushless motor is more powerful and efficient than a traditional sander.
Drawbacks
- It doesn’t come with a battery and charger.
5. BOSCH OS50VC Belt or Orbital Sander for Deck
The Bosch OS50VC electric orbital sander is designed for professional woodworkers, carpenters, furniture makers, and floor installers. It’s a powerful tool that delivers high performance, with an ergonomic design for ease of use.
The Bosch OS50VC electric orbital sander is a 3.4 amp, ½” finishing belt sander kit with a vibration control suspension system for superior handling.
It has a variable speed dial that allows you to adjust the speed between 8,000 – 11,000 orbits per minute (OPM) to meet the requirements of different sanding applications. Dust and debris don’t get into the sander’s internal components, thanks to the dust-sealed switch.
The unit has a soft start feature, which gradually increases the speed of the sander when you turn it on to avoid sudden movements that could cause damage to your workpiece.
It also has a trigger switch with a lock-on button to prevent the machine from turning off during operations. The gear housing of the sander is made from sturdy die-cast aluminum to ensure durability.
The Bosch OS50VC electric orbital sander features a rubber over-molded grip that provides comfortable handling. However, it is heavy, weighing 9.1lb. Bosch designed it to sand close to vertical surfaces on three sides. They also equipped it with the SheetLoc supreme sandpaper attachment system that pulls regular sandpaper flat and tight.
Thanks to its two built-in dust collection systems (microfilter dust canister or vacuum hose connection with airflow control) your workshop will always be clean.
Benefits
- Its dust collection system is very effective.
- The sander has a powerful motor.
- You can use any sandpaper you like with this sander.
- It has an ergonomic design that makes it comfortable to handle.
Drawbacks
- This sander is expensive.
- It is a heavy sander.
6. SKIL 6 Amp Belt Sander with Pressure Control
The SKIL 7510-01 belt sander is an inexpensive, professional-grade sanding tool suitable for use by woodworkers, furniture makers, and floor installers.
It features an auto belt tracking system that helps keep the belt aligned with the workpiece, while the pressure control system ensures a consistent sanding depth. The 80-grit belt size is impressive at 3″ x 18″, making it perfect for larger projects. Plus, a single lever aids with smooth belt changes.
With a 6.0 Amp motor, this sander has enough power to sand any wood surface. The motor has an on/off trigger with a lock-on button for extended use. Its housing is made from durable die-cast aluminum, which keeps the weight down.
Additionally, the belt sander includes a micro-filter that captures and contains fine dust particles and a dust bag to help keep your workspace clean. It is also compatible with a vacuum, fitting only standard 1¼” vacuum hose.
Benefits
- It is inexpensive and easy to use.
- The auto belt tracking system functions well.
- The sander comes with a dust collector and filter.
- It is compatible with a vacuum cleaner.
Drawbacks
- It can’t handle heavy-duty sanding projects.
7. Genesis GBS321A Variable Speed Belt Sander
Looking for a quality belt sander that can handle different sanding tasks? The Genesis GBS321A single lever 3″ x 21″ variable speed belt sander may be just what you need.
This professional-grade belt sander has a powerful motor that delivers up to 1,180 ft./minute, making it ideal for quickly removing material. You can control the motor speed from 390 – 1,180 ft./min with its variable speed dial to meet different material thicknesses.
Plus, its auto-tracking belt system tracks the sanding belt without adjustment, ensuring consistency.
This sander comes with an adjustable front handle that provides comfortable handling. Its compact design makes it easy to maneuver around tight spaces.
Thanks to its flat-side design, it delivers a tight, flush sanding. When you buy this tool, it comes with a dust bag for storing dirt and a 6.5-foot power cord. However, the bag doesn’t last long, and the power cord gets in the way of the sander.
Benefits
- Its adjustable handle makes it easy to use.
- It has an auto-tracking belt system.
- The sander has a flat-side design for smooth sanding.
- Best change/replacement is super straightforward.
Drawbacks
- The dust bag doesn’t last long.
- The cord gets in the way during use.
How to Choose the Best Belt Sander for Deck?
If you’re in the market for a belt sander, there are a few things you need to consider before making your purchase.
In this section, we will discuss the factors you need to consider when buying a belt sander for deck refinishing projects.
Type of Belt Sander
The first factor to consider is the type of belt sander you need. There are two types of belt sanders: stationary and portable.
Stationary belt sanders are usually more powerful and can handle tougher projects. Portable belt sanders are more convenient and easier to transport, but they may not have as much power as a stationary model.
Belt Size
The next factor to consider is the size of the belt. Belt sanders come in a variety of sizes, from small handheld models to large floor-standing models. The size you need will depend on the type of project you’re working on.
For example, if you’re working on a small deck, a handheld model should be sufficient. However, if you’re working on a large deck, you’ll need a larger model.
Power
The next factor to consider is power. Belt sanders come in a variety of power levels, from small handheld models to large floor-standing models. The amount of power you need will depend on the type of project you’re working on.
For example, if you’re working on a small deck, a low-powered model should be sufficient. However, if you’re working on a large deck, you’ll need a more powerful model.
Speed
The final factor to consider is speed. Belt sanders come in a variety of speeds, from slow models to fast models. The speed you need will depend on the type of project you’re working on.
It is best to get one with a variable speed adjustment feature so that you can get the optimal speed according to the surface requirements.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a professional woodworker, carpenter, or DIY enthusiast, having the right tools is essential to getting the job done well. Not only will it make the project go faster, but it will also give you a smoother finish.
In conclusion, we’ve thoroughly reviewed seven different belt sanders on the market, educating you on all you need to know about each one. Now, it’s up to you to decide which one is right for your needs.
Have we helped make your decision easier? If so, select from our list below and make your purchase today. Thanks for choosing us as your go-to source for information about power tools!