How to Sand a Deck

Over time, wood decks can become weathered, rough, and splintered due to exposure to the elements. One of the best ways to restore their smooth surface and prepare for staining or sealing is by sanding. If you’re a homeowner in Pierce or Kitsap County looking to revive your wood deck, this guide from Northwest Decks will walk you through how to sand your deck effectively and safely.

Why Sand a Deck?

Sanding is crucial for several reasons:

Smooth Surface: It removes splinters and rough patches, making your deck safer and more comfortable.
Better Stain or Sealant Adhesion: Sanding opens up the wood’s pores, allowing stains and sealants to penetrate more deeply.
Prolongs Deck Life: Proper sanding and sealing can extend the lifespan of your deck by protecting it from moisture and UV damage.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Orbital or Belt Sander: For large, flat areas.
Handheld Sanding Block: For edges, corners, and railings.
Sandpaper: 60-80 grit for initial sanding, and 100-120 grit for a finer finish.
Safety Gear: Dust mask, safety goggles, and hearing protection.
Broom or Shop Vacuum: For cleaning dust between steps.
Pressure Washer or Deck Cleaner: For pre-cleaning the deck before sanding.

Step-by-Step Process for Sanding Your Deck

1. Clean the Deck Thoroughly

Before you begin sanding, the deck must be clean and free of dirt, mildew, and debris.

Use a pressure washer on a low setting or a deck cleaner to remove dirt and grime.
Allow the deck to dry completely for 24-48 hours before sanding. Wet wood is difficult to sand and can damage your equipment.

2. Inspect and Repair

Check for any damaged or loose boards, nails, or screws.

Tighten or replace loose fasteners to avoid snagging the sander.
Replace any rotted boards to ensure a solid surface.

3. Choose the Right Sandpaper

For most decks, you’ll want to start with 60-80 grit sandpaper to remove old finishes and rough patches. If you’re aiming for a finer finish, follow up with 100-120 grit sandpaper.

Pro Tip: Avoid using sandpaper finer than 120 grit, as it can make the wood too smooth for stains and sealers to adhere properly.

4. Sand the Deck Boards

Use an orbital sander or belt sander for the main deck surface.
Sand along the grain of the wood to avoid scratches or swirl marks.
Keep the sander moving consistently to prevent gouging the wood.

Note: For larger decks, work in sections to ensure you sand evenly.

5. Sand the Edges and Railings

Use a handheld sanding block or a small detail sander for railings, steps, and hard-to-reach areas.

Pay attention to corners and edges, where splinters are more likely to form.
Don’t forget to sand the tops and sides of railings for a smooth finish.

6. Clean Up the Dust

After sanding:

Sweep the deck thoroughly or use a shop vacuum to remove all dust particles.
Wipe down the surface with a damp cloth to pick up any remaining fine dust.

This step is crucial to ensure your stain or sealant adheres properly.

7. Apply Stain or Sealant

Now that your deck is smooth and clean, it’s ready for a fresh coat of stain or sealant.

Choose a high-quality deck stain or sealant suitable for Western Washington’s wet climate.
Apply using a brush, roller, or sprayer, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Allow it to dry completely before walking on the deck.

Tips for Success

Pick a Dry Day: Aim for a dry, mild day with no rain in the forecast.
Safety First: Always wear safety gear to protect yourself from dust and noise.
Regular Maintenance: Plan to sand and reseal your deck every 2-3 years to keep it in top shape.

Trust the Experts at Northwest Decks

Sanding a deck can be a time-consuming project, but the results are worth it! If you’d rather leave it to the professionals, Northwest Decks is here to help homeowners in Pierce and Kitsap counties restore, maintain, or upgrade their outdoor living spaces.

Ready to give your deck new life? Contact Northwest Decks today for expert advice and services tailored to your needs.