How to Sand and Stain Stairs?-The complete Guide

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Last Updated on March 1, 2024

How to Sand and Stain Stairs, sanding stairs, wooden stairs sanding

Sanding wooden stairs is important as the stairs can represent your whole house. But this task is not so easy. In this article, I’m going to show you how to sand and Stain stairs step by step. Stay tuned.

For sanding and refinishing your staircase, you need to follow these steps:

  • Inspect the stairs: So, the first step is to look at the staircase. How much dust is there around the floor? You have to clean the old dust, stain spills, and splatters around the stairs. The number of the old paint layer is one of the most determining things. The more the coating, the harder it will be to sand the stairs.
  • Stripping off the paint: Now it is time to start removing the painting phase. You have to proceed cautiously in this step because a single dent on the stairs can ruin the whole project.
  • Cleaning again: After stripping all the paint, you have to clean the staircase surface again. In this step, you should not wipe the stairs with a wet mop. Try dry and soft cloth.
  • Checking Nails: you should check carefully for any popped-up nails before you proceed forward. Try a hammer carefully.
  • Sanding Part: the most important part is now in the play. Now you are ready to sand your stairs. Try the best orbital sander. Firstly you can try 100 grit sandpaper. You can then use a more extensive sand grit paper like 150 grit for sanding the stairs for the second time. If you are not satisfied till now, you can further use 220 grit paper.
  • Apply stain: Apply stain to the treads.
  • Finishing stains: You can use polyurethane to cure the treads using a paintbrush. Apply polyurethane slowly and carefully to avoid bubbles.
  • Finish the project. Paint the stairs properly in this step. The high-sheen paint can give you a glossy look at the stairs. Leave the treads for 18 to 24 hours untouched.
    Must wear a proper safety kit.

A random orbital sander would be the best option for sanding your stairs.

DEWALT 20V MAX Orbital Sander

  • Orbital sander with brushless motor provides runtime and efficiency to get the job done.
  • Variable-speed control of the hand sander from 8,000 to 12,000 OPM to match the speed to the application.
  • Low-profile height of the power sander allows user to get close to work surface for precise sanding.
  • Replaceable 8-hole hook-and-loop sanding pad (DWE64233) for quick, easy paper changing.
  • Dust-sealed switch to protect against dust ingestion for long switch life. Texturized rubber over mold grip for comfortable sanding. One-handed locking dust bag. Dust port is designed to fit directly to the DWV010 or DWV012 dust collectors (sold separately).To attach dust port to other vacuum systems with 1-1/4-inch hoses, use DWV9000 Universal Quick Connector.

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FAQs

Q: Do I need to sand the stairs before painting?

Answer: Yes. It would be best if you sanded the stairs thoroughly before you start painting. Painting the stairs can be a tricky and dull job. It is possible to paint the stair treads before refinishing, but we do not suggest it. There could be a lot of extra work to do. Make sure the staircase is dry before painting. The dry surface makes the paint last longer. To conclude, our recommendation is to sand the stair tread before painting.

Q: How to Use a Floor Sander on Stairs?

Answer: Professionals do not usually use the floor for refinishing stairs. So at first, it will be a little uncomfortable to get the job done. Plus, you may damage the wooden floor if you cannot operate the sander properly. It will take time to get comfortable with the floor sander. But more and more practice will make you into a professional. For stairs, professionals use a handheld random orbital sander. If you are a DIYer, enthusiast, or beginner, our recommendation will be the handheld orbital sander.

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