It is important to know how to change sandpaper belts on a belt sander before taking any steps. Here you will see how to change a belt in a handheld belt sander. Comparing to a handheld belt sander, it is a little bit hard to change belt in a stationary belt sander.
See our project on sanding a timber floor for a description of the different grades of sanding belt and paper. Always make sure you check on the inside of your sanding belt as it will have a directional arrow showing which way the sanding belt has to rotate when in use. Belt sanders are mainly used for more aggressive sanding situations but if used with respect and gently can be used for sanding and preparing woodwork for painting.