Symptoms
- Fine white dust coating nearby furniture and floors after sanding
- Dust drifting into adjoining rooms
- Dust irritating eyes, throat, or lungs while working
Likely causes
- CommonDry sanding without dust containmentStandard sandpaper on joint compound creates a lot of airborne fine dust.
- CommonNo barrier between work area and rest of homeOpen doorways let dust travel throughout the house during sanding.
- PossibleHVAC system circulating dustA running air handler can pull fine dust into ducts and spread it to other rooms.
What to do
- Turn off the HVAC system before sanding to prevent dust circulation.
- Hang plastic sheeting over doorways to contain the work area.
- Use a sanding sponge dampened slightly, or a vacuum-attached sander, to cut down airborne dust.
- Work in small sections rather than sanding a large area dry all at once.
- Vacuum dust from surfaces and floors as you go rather than letting it settle.
- Wipe down nearby surfaces with a damp cloth after sanding.
- Wear a dust mask throughout the process, especially in an enclosed room.
Tools and parts
- Sanding sponge or vacuum sander
- Plastic sheeting
- Shop vacuum
When to call a pro
Call a drywall finisher for larger jobs if you want to avoid the dust and cleanup of DIY sanding altogether.
Safety
Use caution
Wear a dust mask when sanding drywall compound, since fine particles can irritate lungs with repeated exposure.