Achieving a perfectly smooth drywall finish isn’t about applying more compound—it’s about sanding smartly between coats. Each layer of joint compound builds on the last, and even small imperfections can show through paint if not properly addressed. That’s why selecting the correct sandpaper grit at each stage is critical.
Many beginners make the mistake of using the same grit throughout the process, which often leads to uneven finishes or unnecessary effort. If you want a deeper understanding of how grit selection works across different drywall tasks, check out What Grit Sandpaper for Drywall for a broader perspective before diving into this specific use case.
Let’s walk through exactly what grit you should use between coats and how to do it the right way.
What Grit Sandpaper for Drywall Between Coats for First Layer?
The first coat—commonly known as the taping coat—is typically the most uneven. It often includes excess compound, visible seams, and minor ridges left behind during application.
For this stage, 100 to 120 grit sandpaper is the most effective choice. It strikes the right balance between material removal and surface protection.
Here’s how to approach sanding the first layer:
- Focus only on high spots and ridges instead of sanding the entire wall
- Keep your pressure consistent to avoid dips or low spots
- Be careful around taped joints to prevent tearing or exposure
At this stage, you’re not aiming for perfection—you’re simply creating a smoother base for the next coat to adhere evenly.
What Grit to Use for Final Coat Drywall Sanding
By the time you reach the final coat, your wall should already look relatively smooth. Now the goal shifts from shaping the surface to refining it.
This is where 150 to 220 grit sandpaper comes in. These finer grits help eliminate minor imperfections while leaving a clean, paint-ready surface.
To get the best results:
- Start with 150 or 180 grit if slight unevenness remains
- Finish with 220 grit for a polished, uniform texture
- Use angled lighting to reveal subtle flaws that aren’t visible head-on
A careful final sanding pass ensures your paint goes on evenly without highlighting surface defects.
Can You Use 220 Grit Between Drywall Coats?
Yes, 220 grit can be used between drywall coats, but it works best in specific situations rather than as a default option.
Because it’s a fine grit:
- It’s ideal for smoothing minor imperfections rather than removing bulk material
- It’s more effective in later stages than after the first coat
If your surface already feels smooth to the touch, 220 grit is a great choice for light sanding. Otherwise, starting with a slightly coarser grit will save time and effort.
What Happens If You Skip Sanding Between Coats?
Skipping sanding might seem like a shortcut, but it almost always leads to visible flaws in the final finish.
Here’s what typically happens:
- Layered imperfections: Bumps and ridges compound with each coat
- Weak bonding: New layers may not adhere properly to uneven surfaces
- Visible defects after painting: Paint tends to highlight inconsistencies rather than hide them
- More rework later: Fixing issues after the final coat is far more time-consuming
Sanding between coats ensures that each layer improves the surface instead of amplifying existing flaws.
How to Sand Drywall Between Coats Without Damaging Surface
Even with the right grit, poor technique can ruin your results. Controlled, consistent sanding is key to maintaining a smooth and even surface.
Follow these proven techniques:
1. Choose the Right Sanding Tool
Use a sanding sponge for corners and detail work and a pole sander for larger areas to maintain uniform pressure.
2. Apply Light Pressure
Let the sandpaper do the work. Pressing too hard can create grooves or expose the tape underneath.
3. Sand in Broad, Even Motions
Avoid aggressive back-and-forth movements. Instead, use smooth, overlapping strokes to blend edges seamlessly.
4. Manage Dust Effectively
Drywall dust can obscure imperfections. Clean the surface or use a vacuum attachment to maintain visibility while working.
5. Inspect Before Moving Forward
Run your hand over the surface and use side lighting to catch uneven spots before applying the next coat.
Mastering drywall sanding between coats is less about effort and more about precision. By using the correct grit at each stage and applying careful technique, you create a surface that looks flawless even under direct lighting. That attention to detail is what separates an average finish from a truly professional one.