Restoring Wooden Stair Treads with Sandpaper (60, 120, 180, 220 Grit Guide)

Stair treads endure some of the heaviest wear in the home. Foot traffic, dirt, and moisture gradually wear down finishes and leave scratches. Sanding stair treads properly before refinishing ensures safety, durability, and a polished look that matches the rest of your interior.

Why Sand Stair Treads?

Sanding removes worn finishes, levels uneven spots, and creates a surface ready for stain or polyurethane. Without sanding, new coatings won’t adhere well and imperfections remain visible.

Tools You’ll Need

• Orbital sander for flat tread surfaces
• Sanding block for corners and edges
• Vacuum and tack cloth
• Protective mask and knee pads
• Durable sandpaper sheets

Best Grit Sequence for Stair Refinishing

• 60 grit (50-pack) — Cuts through old finish and deep scratches.
• 120 grit (25-pack) — Smooths the surface after coarse sanding.
• 180 grit (50-pack) — Refines the wood and preps for finishing.
• 220 grit (100-pack) — Final sanding for a clean, paint- or stain-ready finish.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Stair Treads

1. Prep the area. Remove stair runners or carpet, and vacuum debris.
2. Strip with 60 grit. Use 60 grit sandpaper to remove old coatings and scratches.
3. Smooth with 120 grit. Switch to 120 grit sheets for evening out sanding marks.
4. Refine with 180 grit. Apply 180 grit sandpaper to prep wood for stain or polyurethane.
5. Finish with 220 grit. Use 220 grit sheets to achieve a smooth final texture.
6. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum and wipe with tack cloth before finishing.

Special Cases

• Softwood stairs: Be careful not to oversand, which can create dips.
• Painted treads: Start with 80–100 grit if the paint is thin.
• Curved nosings: Sand by hand with a block for better control.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the wood grain for consistent results.
• Change sandpaper frequently—stairs wear down sheets quickly.
• Work one tread at a time for thorough results.

Aftercare

• Seal stair treads with polyurethane for durability.
• Use non-slip pads or runners to protect the finish.
• Dust and clean regularly to maintain appearance.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand between polyurethane coats? Yes, use 220 grit lightly between coats.
• Can I sand stairs without a machine? Yes, hand sanding works but takes more time.
• How long does refinishing stairs take? Typically 1–2 days depending on number of steps.

Watch & Learn

Sanding stair treads with the right grit sequence ensures a safe, smooth, and professional finish. Stock up on wood sanding sheets to make your stairs look brand new again.