Refinish Stair Treads with 60, 240, and 800 Grit Sandpaper

Stair treads take a beating from constant foot traffic, leading to scratches, dents, and worn finishes. Using 60, 240, and 800 grit sandpaper, you can restore them to a smooth, attractive, and durable state.

Why This Method Works

60 grit removes heavy wear, old coatings, and deep scratches. 240 grit smooths the surface for a consistent finish. 800 grit gives a refined texture for professional-level results before sealing.

Tools & Materials

• Wet/dry sandpaper: 60 grit (50-pack), 240 grit (100-pack), 800 grit (25-pack)
• Orbital sander and detail sander for corners
• Vacuum or dust brush
• Microfiber cloths
• Wood stain or polyurethane

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 60 grit: Strip old finish and level surface. (50-pack)
• 240 grit: Smooth for finish application. (100-pack)
• 800 grit: Burnish for a fine, touch-friendly feel. (25-pack)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Remove any carpet or runners and clean each tread thoroughly.
2. Coarse sanding. Use 60 grit sandpaper to strip away finish and level uneven areas.
3. Intermediate smoothing. Switch to 240 grit sandpaper to refine the texture and prepare for sealing.
4. Final burnish. Lightly sand with 800 grit sandpaper for a smooth, polished finish.
5. Apply finish. Use a durable polyurethane or stain to protect the treads, allowing each coat to dry fully before adding another.

Special Considerations

Use a detail sander or hand sanding for stair edges and corners to maintain clean lines.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain for a consistent look.
• Vacuum between grit changes to avoid dust contamination.
• Apply multiple thin coats of finish for maximum durability.

Aftercare

• Clean treads with a damp mop and mild cleaner.
• Inspect annually and reapply finish if necessary.

FAQs

• Can I skip 240 grit? No—skipping it may leave deep scratches visible under the final finish.
• Will 800 grit make stairs slippery? No—slipperiness is determined by the finish, not sanding grit.
• Does this work on painted treads? Yes—start with 60 grit to remove paint before smoothing.

Watch & Learn

Get your wet/dry sandpaper kit and restore your stair treads to a durable, like-new condition.