On the other hand, natural wood decks are more delicate and can be easily damaged, so coarser grit sandpaper is necessary. Sandpaper produces much less dust, making it easier to keep your work area clean. If you found this guide helpful, please share it with others. It commonly takes 2-hours to sand 100sqft once, using a belt sander. Eugene has been a DIY enthusiast for most of his life and loves being creative while inspiring creativity in others. The condition of the wood determines the sanding grit required for the task. To determine the amount of grit sandpaper you'll need, start by inspecting your deck. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Reapply the stain to the deck every two years to maintain its finish. Plus, it will remove or smooth raised grain that could cause slivers. So, expect to take 5 hours to fully sand 100sqft of decking. New decks should wait for 30 or more days to acclimatize before staining, and like old decks, should pass the water test. The sanding process for railings is done with the same grits as the deck, with the occasional exception of the top rail. Without this step, you may end up with uneven results. Do the first pass with 20 to 40 grit sandpaper depending on the condition of the boards. Belt sanders are better for larger horizontal surfaces like top railings or deck boards. Allow the first coat to dry and then apply a second coat after 24 hours. This property means you do not have to worry about keeping a straight line to cover your entire deck with a random orbit sander. Sanding is an essential step in refinishing a deck. Before completing your deck refinishing project, the first thing you may want to do is to wear the proper personal protection. For light sanding, use 60-grit paper. 6. The type of grit you'll need will depend on the condition of your deck and the amount of sanding needed. Sanding takes a lot of elbow grease but will smooth the surface and allow the wood to absorb stain or sealant better. cleaning deck after sanding before painting or staining. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. It is vital to give the entire deck a final vacuuming to remove all the debris and wood dust that might have fallen on it while sanding the other surfaces. Vacuum the sanding dust regularly. When sanding, always go with the grain of the wood. A new deck should season for 30 days or more to allow it to dry to the outdoor climate. There are three main types of sandpaper - coarse, medium, and fine. If the woods have weathered screws, consider replacing them. His goal is to help you become a successful woodworker, whether as a hobbyist or as a professional. An orbital floor sander weighs between 60 and 150 pounds (or more), so it adds more sustained pressure to the job. Clean the deck with a deck cleaner or mild detergent. The best sander for deck refinishing is a random or oscillating orbital sander. High-grit sandpaper will be necessary if it's hardwood, such as oak or mahogany. Deck brightener (for weathered deck boards), 4" wide belt with a speed of 1,640 ft./min. If hosing it clean, let it dry afterward for at least 24 hours. Please leave a comment if you have any thoughts or find this guide helpful. deck sander sanding orbital wood stain superb floors apply newsonair applying Medium sandpaper is then used to smooth the deck and remove any remaining roughness. sanding The little powerhouse offers speeds of 8,000 to 12,000 orbits per minute (OPM) and has a variable speed dial for better control. A big drum or disc floor sander may look ideal for the task; however, its made for flat, smooth surfaces. Here is a comprehensive list of the things tools and materials you may need depending on the condition of your wooden deck. If the deck is dirty or has a lot of old paint or sealant that needs to be removed, you'll need to start with rougher grit sandpaper and work your way up to finer grits. Sanding will smooth any raised wood fibers and open those areas still protected to the new stain. Alternatively, you may stick to 60 or 80 grit sandpaper on the orbital sander or belt sander and achieve the same results. By choosing the right grit sandpaper, you can ensure that your deck will last for years to come. While the orbital sander is designed to work for various wood types, a sanding sponge may better work on the balustrades and railings instead. Yes, if youre planning on staining your deck, its worth taking the time to sand it first. This will give you the best results and help to prevent damage. decking garapa mataverdedecking hardwood ipe sanded sealer penofin For the stain, Mauro applied a transparent penetrating wood oil in a natural finish manufactured by PPG. Before staining, sealing, or painting a deck, it should be cleaned and pass the water test a few scattered droplets of water to see if the water beads or absorbs. What Grit Sandpaper to Use for Deck Sanding? Consider following these instructions to clean the wood correctly. You can also use a brush to remove loose paint and dirt before sanding. In this guide, well discuss when to sand a deck, how to sand it, and what grit to use. Additionally, if the joists are exposed wood and visible between boards, attempt to sand them too so they will absorb the protective stain or paint better. Expect to add another 30 minutes for edges, ends, gaps, and around posts. Grit in sandpapers is measured by the number of grains of abrasive particles per square inch. Knowing what grit sandpaper for deck sanding can get you halfway to your desired results. Deck sanding is necessary to maintain your deck and keep it looking its best. Blow, wipe, or vacuum the dust off before staining. Orbital power sanders are good for both railings and wood decks. To properly re-stain a deck, Mauro explains that the surface needs to be completely sanded down before accepting new stain. This may include safety goggles to protect your eyes, heavy gloves for your hands, and a dust mask or respirator to protect your lungs. Instead, when used wet, the sponge creates a smooth, even finish without leaving any streaks or lines. The rectangular 12x18 sanding pad will do 3 boards at once and is easier on your knees still hard work on arms, back, and shoulders, though. Make sure the decking boards are clean; which means sweeping, vacuuming, or spraying it down. Get the latest This Old House news, trusted tips, tricks, and DIY Smarts projects from our expertsstraight to your inbox. So, if you're looking for a professional-grade finish, start with coarse-grit sandpaper. The amount of grit sandpaper you'll need for deck sanding depends on the condition of your deck and the type of wood it's made of. It will sand 3 or 4 deck boards at a time 18-inches wide and saves a lot of time. Choose the right grit sandpaper for your project. Sweep, vacuum, or blow (with a leaf blower) the sanding dust off the deck and use a tack cloth to wipe hard to reach surfaces. Check all the edges, surfaces, railings, and stairs for fasteners that may have come loose or pieces that may be missing. To open the wood grain so it absorbs stain or paint, sand the deck using 20 to 50 grit sandpaper on the first pass and 60 to 80 grit on the second pass on a belt sander or orbital floor sander. You want to let the wood dry before you finish or seal it. Next, use plastic sheeting to cover the lawn or garden plants to protect them from the cleaning chemicals you will be using. Once you have assembled everything and prepared your workspace, follow these steps to sand your deck before staining or painting. Sandpaper allows you to be much more precise in your sanding, removing only as much material as you need. However, you cannot apply any of these products without cleaning and sanding the deck. For example, if you have a pressure-treated deck, you will want to use different grit sandpaper than you would for a natural wood deck. Here are some recommendations: The brushless motor wont overheat and has a dust-sealed switch for longer life. If your deck is in good condition and softwood, you'll only need low-grit sandpaper (60 or 80 grit). Sanding a deck before staining provides a clean, smooth, and absorbent surface for stain and paint to adhere to. Use 20 to 80 grit for the vertical pieces and up to 100 grit where hands commonly touch. Still, do not apply too much pressure while sanding a deck to avoid damaging the woods.. Railings are highly visible, so you want to ensure you sand them the best you can. A drum sander can too easily sand off more in one pass than desired and can expose or cause damage to decking screws and nails. Then, plan your work according to the weather forecast to guarantee satisfactory results and zero frustration. Use an epoxy wood filler and a putty knife to apply and scrape off any excess. However, if the water beads up on the boards, you would have to wait longer. Depending on the wood you are using, you may also give the wood a final quick once over with fine 180-grit sandpaper. If it absorbs water, it will take a stain. Power sanders create a lot of dust, which can be difficult to clean up. This will help keep your work area clean and help avoid breathing in the dust. For large flat deck surfaces with little or no cupping or warping, rent an orbital floor sander. Clean the exposed ends of the deck boards and joist surfaces visible between gaps too. It depends on the condition of the deck. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you. To keep your deck looking its best, vacuum regularly to remove dust and debris. If you're unsure, consult a professional deck sanding company for advice. Once you've determined your deck's condition, look at the type of wood it's made of. You could also opt for knee pads depending on personal safety preferences and the equipment you plan to use., Although random orbital sanders are generally safe, it could never hurt to err on the side of caution when operating power tools.. Sanding sponges are also inexpensive, making them a great choice for budget-conscious DIYers. Some people recommend starting with much coarser sandpaper, such as 20-grit for the initial pass before progressing toward a medium grit. Any deck refinishing projects such as staining, painting, and sealing require specific temperature ranges for their application. To get the best results, apply even pressure when sanding. Overall, you want to check every part of the deck to ensure everything is in proper working order before you start sanding.
When sanding your deck, always start in the middle and work your way out. Do you need to use sandpaper for deck sanding? The right sandpaper grit for a deck is 60- or 80-grit on your main deck boards and 80- or 100-grit sandpaper on the handrails around your deck. Repeat this process with the 60- and 80-grit sandpaper. Older decks may also require a stain or paint remover and anti-mildew treatment. Keep a tack cloth handy for if you find any sanding dust. Refinishing a deck typically requires power washing or scrubbing the deck with a brightener first. Decks require periodic maintenance to remain sound and serviceable for longer. While there are many different types of sandpaper available, choosing the right grit sandpaper is important to get the job done right. The more transparent the stain or paint, the more often youll be doing a deck refinishing project. Always use caution when working with power tools, and follow all safety instructions. Existing and new decks should be inspected before sanding or sealing. So, it is always best to check the weather forecast to ensure there will be no rain for at least three days of your sanding. Selecting the best sander for sanding a deck is important. Sanding a deck requires coarse sandpaper to achieve the right texture. Once you've finished sanding, protect your deck with a sealer or stain. This will help keep your deck looking its best and prevent further damage. Rental of an orbital floor sander is approximately $45 for 4-hours, $65 for a day, and $260 for a week, while purchase can set you back upwards of $5,000. The wood needs to dry fully after washing and brightening before it is sanded.
Sand the perimeter of the deck, hard to reach places, stairs, railings, edges, gaps, and board ends with a belt and orbital hand sanders, and sponge blocks. The best time to sand a deck is when the forecast predicts 3 or more consecutive dry days. Once the dust is removed from the whole deck, apply the paint or stain immediately. A sure sign it is time to sand and protect it again. One reason for sanding is to remove the raised wood fibers left from pressure washing the deck.
Here are five of the best sandpapers for the job: Before beginning any sanding project, it's important to roughen the surface with coarse-grit sandpaper. Remember that woods such as cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated pine commonly used on decks and stair treads are relatively soft. Start by sanding the edges of the deck with 40-grit sandpaper. Sweep or vacuum up the dust, and sand the deck again with a 60 to 80 grit to smooth the surface and still leave the pores open to suck up the stain. Just be sure to wipe away any sanding dust before you start painting! This will help to avoid leaving behind any uneven spots. Sand in the direction of the grain. A previously painted deck should be scuffed with sandpaper to remove and smooth chips, edges, and flaking. If it rains on the wood deck during this drying period, you must give it at least an extra day to dry. The design and elliptical movement of random orbital sanders mean they blend sanding directions along the wood grain and across it. Best Way to Sand a Deck: Deck Sanding Machine Rental, 5-inch diameter random orbit sander BDER0100, More consistent and better absorption of the stain. Once done, rinse the entire deck with a garden hose. Once you have finished sanding, it is important to vacuum up any dust that has been created. Yes, sanding a deck with a belt sander can be a pretty quick way to remove deck material. But plunge pools fill the middle ground, give a splash of fun, and offer relaxation in smaller yards. Its too big and heavy for sanding the uneven boards on a deck. This will help to avoid damaging the wood. If it rains during the drying period, give it extra time to dry. Old and newly built decks should be sanded before staining so they are better able to absorb the stain. A solar generator gives you backup energy from the sun should your electricity fail. Stains, sealers, and paints all have temperature ranges for application and recommended drying times. Once the deck has been washed, it needs to dry for 24 to 48 hours depending on the products used before sanding. The 9403 is well balanced and has a large rear handle and front grip which improves control and comfort. Palm sanders work well on horizontal and vertical surfaces like railings, tight areas, board ends, and stairs. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. However, they are aggressive and unideal for most soft deck woods. What grit sandpaper should be used for deck sanding and why? Have you tried using grit sandpaper for deck sanding? Wood dust is known to irritate the eyes and respiratory system. Once dry, the wood fibers can remain raised and with splinters. Sanding deck boards is often hands down, on your knees, arm, and back tiring task, so if youre not up to it, hire a professional. Most decks take two passes with a power sander; the first with 20 to 50 grit and the second with 60 to 80. For medium sanding, use 80-grit paper. Heres more on cleaning deck after sanding before painting or staining. The innovative design allows for sanding closer to walls and posts, and efficiently removes stock. Likewise, if some boards are damaged or missing, remove or replace them accordingly. Additional thought should go to knee pads, dust masks, safety goggles, and ear protection.
Expert assistance with this segment was provided by Mauros Painting. The size of the deck, the condition of the surface, and the type of sander are variables in determining how long sanding will take. Sandpaper produces much less dust, making it a safer option for you and your family. Make sure decking screws are set properly, wood shrinks as it dries and can leave screw or nail heads raised. Whether youre looking for a heavy-duty weed eater or just something to get basic jobs done, weve reviewed some of the best weed eaters on the market. Belt sanders can easily gouge them, so a random or oscillating orbital sander is generally the better choice.
Belt sanders tend to be aggressive and can easily gouge these softwoods.. If the wood readily absorbs the water, you can apply the finish. Top rails that commonly have more hand contact frequently have a final pass with 100 grit sandpaper to provide a smoother finish. The second pass is commonly done using 80 grit sandpaper. Ideally, allow a new deck to season for a minimum of 30 days or longer, depending on the weather. It sands wood in an elliptical pattern, perfect for woods commonly used on decks such as cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated pine that are relatively soft. The sanding block may even do both sides of the gap in one pass. Once the deck is clean, let it dry for the recommended time between 24 and 48 hours is common before sanding. By submitting your email, you agree to our. When choosing grit sandpaper for your deck, it is important to consider the type of deck you have and the amount of wear and tear it receives. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Youll want a belt sander, palm or oscillating sander, several sanding sponges, and sandpaper or belts of different grits for edges, ends, and hard to reach places. Deck sanding is important in maintaining your deck and keeping it looking its best. Coarse sandpaper is typically used for the initial sanding of the deck, as it will remove the most material. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Some pressure-treated lumber can take up to half a year to dry enough to absorb sealant or stain.
In addition, it will also help to give the wood a better finish. When cleaning or sanding its good to remember that cedar, redwood, pine, and most pressure-treated decking is a softwood. If the deck is in good condition and only needs light sanding, you can probably get away with using a power sander with a fine-grit sandpaper. Make sure the boards are dry before sanding and that the forecast for the next 3 or more days is for warm and dry weather. The best time for the deck sanding is during warm and dry weather with no precipitation. The orbital floor sander doesnt leave scratch patterns like the rotary or rip off a of deck board surface as a drum sander can. Wet sanding is often more effective as it helps prevent dust formation. Gaps may be uniform or irregular depending on wood shrinkage. Here's how to use grit sandpaper for deck sanding: If you're planning on refinishing your deck, sanding is a critical step in the process. Use the water test and sprinkle some water on the boards. Clean all debris off the deck with a leaf blower. Wading in the water in a backyard meant having a massive swimming pool or settling for a scant hot tub. Refinishing your deck can add years to its service life and even make an old weathered deck look brand new. Whether dealing with new or weathered wood, washing is essential in removing dirt, debris, and accumulated dust. As a rule of thumb, you should always let new decking boards dry completely before applying any finish on them. for fast material removal, Labyrinth construction seals and protects motor and bearings from dust and debris for longer tool life, Large front grip is positioned for operator comfort, Innovative design for sanding flush to wall with nose and side of sander. This outdoor deck sander is ideal for fast material removal, with a 4 wide belt and a speed of 1,640 ft./min. Even better, you can operate an orbital sander with one hand when working in confined spaces. Apply a generous coat but make sure it gets spread well. Use 60- or 80-grit sandpaper on your main deck boards and 80- or 100-grit sandpaper on the handrails around your deck. The sand is easy to control and is well suited for sanding stairs, railings, deck edges, board ends, and hard to reach spots. When preparing to stain a previously stained deck it will be observed that some sections are still moisture protected. You could use it by hand or attach it to a power sander, depending on the nature and size of the project. You can use a tack cloth or clean rags to wipe the railings and other smaller sections, but vacuuming should do for the rest of the deck. The first pass commonly is with a belt or floor sander using a 20 to 50 grit belt, working against the grain. rolls 3m abrasive psa sheet Smaller grit numbers correspond to coarser sandpapers, while higher numbers represent finer grit sandpapers. Use even strokes when sanding. For gaps that are tight, wrap a paint stir stick or other appropriate thickness of wood with 60 to 80 grit paper and work your way along. If it absorbs into the wood, then youre good to go. Therefore, a finer grade of sandpaper will have a higher number, while a coarser grain of sandpaper will have a lower number. Once its cured, sand the railings before sanding the deck. The smaller the surface to be sanded, the less time it will take. To restore wood luster and the pH levels, apply wood brightener after cleaning. Once you complete all the preliminary activities, it is time to sand the wood. This abrasiveness is determined by the particles or grains and their arrangement on the sanding material, equivalent to the number of microns used. Pressure-treated decks are more resistant to wear and tear, so finer grit sandpaper is necessary. The quality of stain or paint is an important factor in how often a deck will need to be sanded, as is the climate where the deck is located. The handles and built-in vacuum system make it easy to control and reduce dust and clean-up. Any grit value from 60 to 80 grit is coarse, 100 to 150 grit is medium, while 180 to 220 grit is fine. You could use a pressure washer, but ensure you have it on a low setting or follow instructions to avoid damaging the wood. This will help you catch any missed spots and ensure you're not damaging the wood. If the wood is in poor condition, 20 grit may be used first. Goodell is the founder of this website and an avid woodworker. The product should do an excellent job of enhancing the decks appearance. Power sanders can be expensive, and you may not need one for every sanding job. Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. To make the job easier, Mauro suggests renting a floor sander from a home center for the day. Dampness and snow are as damaging as blistering sunlight to exposed wood, so UV and mildew inhibitors in stains and paint are helpful. The type of grit sandpaper you use will depend on the condition of your deck and the level of sanding you need to do. The first step in using grit sandpaper for deck sanding is to choose the right grit for your project. If the sprinkled drops absorb into the wood, its dry. We recommend using 60- or 80- grit sandpaper attached to an orbital sander for the decking boards and stairs. The deck should be sanded after it is stripped and before a coat of stain or paint is applied. Once the boards are clean, carefully inspect each for any grooves and damages that may require filling or fixing before sanding. If your deck is in poor condition or made of hardwood, you'll need high-grit sandpaper (100 or 120 grit). Finally, any deep gouges or grooves in the wood must be filled and allowed to dry before the next step. By lightly sanding the surface before you start painting, you'll create a smooth base that will allow your paint to go on evenly and result in a polished look. Vacuum regularly to remove dust and debris. The hook-and-loop system makes changing sanding discs quick and easy too. What were your results? This will help to smooth out the surface of the wood.
When sanding your deck, always start in the middle and work your way out. Do you need to use sandpaper for deck sanding? The right sandpaper grit for a deck is 60- or 80-grit on your main deck boards and 80- or 100-grit sandpaper on the handrails around your deck. Repeat this process with the 60- and 80-grit sandpaper. Older decks may also require a stain or paint remover and anti-mildew treatment. Keep a tack cloth handy for if you find any sanding dust. Refinishing a deck typically requires power washing or scrubbing the deck with a brightener first. Decks require periodic maintenance to remain sound and serviceable for longer. While there are many different types of sandpaper available, choosing the right grit sandpaper is important to get the job done right. The more transparent the stain or paint, the more often youll be doing a deck refinishing project. Always use caution when working with power tools, and follow all safety instructions. Existing and new decks should be inspected before sanding or sealing. So, it is always best to check the weather forecast to ensure there will be no rain for at least three days of your sanding. Selecting the best sander for sanding a deck is important. Sanding a deck requires coarse sandpaper to achieve the right texture. Once you've finished sanding, protect your deck with a sealer or stain. This will help keep your deck looking its best and prevent further damage. Rental of an orbital floor sander is approximately $45 for 4-hours, $65 for a day, and $260 for a week, while purchase can set you back upwards of $5,000. The wood needs to dry fully after washing and brightening before it is sanded.
Here are five of the best sandpapers for the job: Before beginning any sanding project, it's important to roughen the surface with coarse-grit sandpaper. Remember that woods such as cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated pine commonly used on decks and stair treads are relatively soft. Start by sanding the edges of the deck with 40-grit sandpaper. Sweep or vacuum up the dust, and sand the deck again with a 60 to 80 grit to smooth the surface and still leave the pores open to suck up the stain. Just be sure to wipe away any sanding dust before you start painting! This will help to avoid leaving behind any uneven spots. Sand in the direction of the grain. A previously painted deck should be scuffed with sandpaper to remove and smooth chips, edges, and flaking. If it rains on the wood deck during this drying period, you must give it at least an extra day to dry. The design and elliptical movement of random orbital sanders mean they blend sanding directions along the wood grain and across it. Best Way to Sand a Deck: Deck Sanding Machine Rental, 5-inch diameter random orbit sander BDER0100, More consistent and better absorption of the stain. Once done, rinse the entire deck with a garden hose. Once you have finished sanding, it is important to vacuum up any dust that has been created. Yes, sanding a deck with a belt sander can be a pretty quick way to remove deck material. But plunge pools fill the middle ground, give a splash of fun, and offer relaxation in smaller yards. Its too big and heavy for sanding the uneven boards on a deck. This will help to avoid damaging the wood. If it rains during the drying period, give it extra time to dry. Old and newly built decks should be sanded before staining so they are better able to absorb the stain. A solar generator gives you backup energy from the sun should your electricity fail. Stains, sealers, and paints all have temperature ranges for application and recommended drying times. Once the deck has been washed, it needs to dry for 24 to 48 hours depending on the products used before sanding. The 9403 is well balanced and has a large rear handle and front grip which improves control and comfort. Palm sanders work well on horizontal and vertical surfaces like railings, tight areas, board ends, and stairs. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. However, they are aggressive and unideal for most soft deck woods. What grit sandpaper should be used for deck sanding and why? Have you tried using grit sandpaper for deck sanding? Wood dust is known to irritate the eyes and respiratory system. Once dry, the wood fibers can remain raised and with splinters. Sanding deck boards is often hands down, on your knees, arm, and back tiring task, so if youre not up to it, hire a professional. Most decks take two passes with a power sander; the first with 20 to 50 grit and the second with 60 to 80. For medium sanding, use 80-grit paper. Heres more on cleaning deck after sanding before painting or staining. The innovative design allows for sanding closer to walls and posts, and efficiently removes stock. Likewise, if some boards are damaged or missing, remove or replace them accordingly. Additional thought should go to knee pads, dust masks, safety goggles, and ear protection.
Expert assistance with this segment was provided by Mauros Painting. The size of the deck, the condition of the surface, and the type of sander are variables in determining how long sanding will take. Sandpaper produces much less dust, making it a safer option for you and your family. Make sure decking screws are set properly, wood shrinks as it dries and can leave screw or nail heads raised. Whether youre looking for a heavy-duty weed eater or just something to get basic jobs done, weve reviewed some of the best weed eaters on the market. Belt sanders can easily gouge them, so a random or oscillating orbital sander is generally the better choice.
Belt sanders tend to be aggressive and can easily gouge these softwoods.. If the wood readily absorbs the water, you can apply the finish. Top rails that commonly have more hand contact frequently have a final pass with 100 grit sandpaper to provide a smoother finish. The second pass is commonly done using 80 grit sandpaper. Ideally, allow a new deck to season for a minimum of 30 days or longer, depending on the weather. It sands wood in an elliptical pattern, perfect for woods commonly used on decks such as cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated pine that are relatively soft. The sanding block may even do both sides of the gap in one pass. Once the deck is clean, let it dry for the recommended time between 24 and 48 hours is common before sanding. By submitting your email, you agree to our. When choosing grit sandpaper for your deck, it is important to consider the type of deck you have and the amount of wear and tear it receives. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Youll want a belt sander, palm or oscillating sander, several sanding sponges, and sandpaper or belts of different grits for edges, ends, and hard to reach places. Deck sanding is important in maintaining your deck and keeping it looking its best. Coarse sandpaper is typically used for the initial sanding of the deck, as it will remove the most material. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Some pressure-treated lumber can take up to half a year to dry enough to absorb sealant or stain. In addition, it will also help to give the wood a better finish. When cleaning or sanding its good to remember that cedar, redwood, pine, and most pressure-treated decking is a softwood. If the deck is in good condition and only needs light sanding, you can probably get away with using a power sander with a fine-grit sandpaper. Make sure the boards are dry before sanding and that the forecast for the next 3 or more days is for warm and dry weather. The best time for the deck sanding is during warm and dry weather with no precipitation. The orbital floor sander doesnt leave scratch patterns like the rotary or rip off a of deck board surface as a drum sander can. Wet sanding is often more effective as it helps prevent dust formation. Gaps may be uniform or irregular depending on wood shrinkage. Here's how to use grit sandpaper for deck sanding: If you're planning on refinishing your deck, sanding is a critical step in the process. Use the water test and sprinkle some water on the boards. Clean all debris off the deck with a leaf blower. Wading in the water in a backyard meant having a massive swimming pool or settling for a scant hot tub. Refinishing your deck can add years to its service life and even make an old weathered deck look brand new. Whether dealing with new or weathered wood, washing is essential in removing dirt, debris, and accumulated dust. As a rule of thumb, you should always let new decking boards dry completely before applying any finish on them. for fast material removal, Labyrinth construction seals and protects motor and bearings from dust and debris for longer tool life, Large front grip is positioned for operator comfort, Innovative design for sanding flush to wall with nose and side of sander. This outdoor deck sander is ideal for fast material removal, with a 4 wide belt and a speed of 1,640 ft./min. Even better, you can operate an orbital sander with one hand when working in confined spaces. Apply a generous coat but make sure it gets spread well. Use 60- or 80-grit sandpaper on your main deck boards and 80- or 100-grit sandpaper on the handrails around your deck. The sand is easy to control and is well suited for sanding stairs, railings, deck edges, board ends, and hard to reach spots. When preparing to stain a previously stained deck it will be observed that some sections are still moisture protected. You could use it by hand or attach it to a power sander, depending on the nature and size of the project. You can use a tack cloth or clean rags to wipe the railings and other smaller sections, but vacuuming should do for the rest of the deck. The first pass commonly is with a belt or floor sander using a 20 to 50 grit belt, working against the grain. rolls 3m abrasive psa sheet Smaller grit numbers correspond to coarser sandpapers, while higher numbers represent finer grit sandpapers. Use even strokes when sanding. For gaps that are tight, wrap a paint stir stick or other appropriate thickness of wood with 60 to 80 grit paper and work your way along. If it absorbs into the wood, then youre good to go. Therefore, a finer grade of sandpaper will have a higher number, while a coarser grain of sandpaper will have a lower number. Once its cured, sand the railings before sanding the deck. The smaller the surface to be sanded, the less time it will take. To restore wood luster and the pH levels, apply wood brightener after cleaning. Once you complete all the preliminary activities, it is time to sand the wood. This abrasiveness is determined by the particles or grains and their arrangement on the sanding material, equivalent to the number of microns used. Pressure-treated decks are more resistant to wear and tear, so finer grit sandpaper is necessary. The quality of stain or paint is an important factor in how often a deck will need to be sanded, as is the climate where the deck is located. The handles and built-in vacuum system make it easy to control and reduce dust and clean-up. Any grit value from 60 to 80 grit is coarse, 100 to 150 grit is medium, while 180 to 220 grit is fine. You could use a pressure washer, but ensure you have it on a low setting or follow instructions to avoid damaging the wood. This will help you catch any missed spots and ensure you're not damaging the wood. If the wood is in poor condition, 20 grit may be used first. Goodell is the founder of this website and an avid woodworker. The product should do an excellent job of enhancing the decks appearance. Power sanders can be expensive, and you may not need one for every sanding job. Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. To make the job easier, Mauro suggests renting a floor sander from a home center for the day. Dampness and snow are as damaging as blistering sunlight to exposed wood, so UV and mildew inhibitors in stains and paint are helpful. The type of grit sandpaper you use will depend on the condition of your deck and the level of sanding you need to do. The first step in using grit sandpaper for deck sanding is to choose the right grit for your project. If the sprinkled drops absorb into the wood, its dry. We recommend using 60- or 80- grit sandpaper attached to an orbital sander for the decking boards and stairs. The deck should be sanded after it is stripped and before a coat of stain or paint is applied. Once the boards are clean, carefully inspect each for any grooves and damages that may require filling or fixing before sanding. If your deck is in poor condition or made of hardwood, you'll need high-grit sandpaper (100 or 120 grit). Finally, any deep gouges or grooves in the wood must be filled and allowed to dry before the next step. By lightly sanding the surface before you start painting, you'll create a smooth base that will allow your paint to go on evenly and result in a polished look. Vacuum regularly to remove dust and debris. The hook-and-loop system makes changing sanding discs quick and easy too. What were your results? This will help to smooth out the surface of the wood.
