Refinish Wooden Stair Treads with 80, 220, and 3000 Grit Sandpaper

Wooden stair treads take a beating from daily foot traffic, leading to scratches, scuffs, and worn finish. With a sanding process using 80, 220, and 3000 grit sandpaper, you can restore their smoothness and beauty before sealing them for long-lasting durability.

Why This Method Works

80 grit removes the old finish and deep damage. 220 grit smooths the surface for uniform finish application. 3000 grit burnishes the wood for a refined, slip-resistant feel when paired with the right topcoat.

Tools & Materials

• Wet/dry sandpaper: 80 grit (100-pack), 220 grit (25-pack), 3000 grit (25-pack or 50-pack)
• Orbital sander or hand sanding block
• Vacuum or dust brush
• Microfiber cloths
• Polyurethane or stair tread sealer

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 80 grit: Strip finish and level the surface. (100-pack)
• 220 grit: Smooth for finish application. (25-pack)
• 3000 grit: Burnish for a refined touch. (25-pack) or (50-pack)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Clear the staircase and vacuum to remove dirt and debris.
2. Coarse sanding. Use 80 grit sandpaper to remove the existing finish and level imperfections.
3. Intermediate smoothing. Switch to 220 grit sandpaper to prepare the wood for sealing.
4. Final burnish. Lightly sand with 3000 grit (25-pack) or 3000 grit (50-pack) for a smooth finish before applying the topcoat.
5. Apply finish. Use polyurethane or a stair tread-specific sealer for durability and safety.

Special Considerations

Use caution on stair nosing and edges to avoid rounding them excessively during sanding.

Pro Tips

• Sand with the grain for best results.
• Vacuum dust between grit changes to avoid scratches.
• Apply two to three coats of finish for maximum wear resistance.

Aftercare

• Clean stairs regularly with a damp mop or microfiber cloth.
• Use felt pads on furniture or heavy items carried up the stairs.

FAQs

• Can I start with 220 grit? Only if the treads are in good condition with minimal damage.
• Will 3000 grit make the stairs slippery? No—slip resistance is determined by your finish, not the sanding grit alone.
• Does this work on painted stairs? Yes—just use 80 grit first to remove paint layers.

Watch & Learn

Get your wet/dry sandpaper kit and make your wooden stairs look brand new again.