Should You Sand Trim Before Repainting?

Sand Trim Between Coats for an Ultra-Smooth Finish
One coat of paint usually won't hide the underlying color and sheen on trim. And if you don't sand the surface smooth between coats, the finish may have a grainy texture. For a smooth finish, sand the trim before applying each coat of paint.

How much do I need to sand trim before painting?

Sanding Tip: If the trim is new or already smooth, lightly sand using 120-grit sandpaper until all shine disappears from the trim. If the trim is rough and worn, start by sanding with coarse, 80-grit sandpaper. Then, move to less-coarse sandpaper such as 100- or 120-grit to smooth the surface.

Can I paint over painted trim?

A quick coat of paint applied over existing paint or stain may look good — but it won't last. The key to a long-lasting paint job is to prepare the woodwork so it's clean and gloss-free.

Elena Rostova

Elena Rostova

Lead Health, Wellness & Medical Journalist

Elena Rostova holds a Master's degree in Public Health Journalism. She covers groundbreaking medical research, holistic wellness trends, mental health awareness, and nutritional science.