Refinish Wooden Stair Treads with 120, 400, and 2000 Grit Sandpaper

Wooden stair treads take a lot of wear, often developing scratches, dents, and worn finishes. Using 120, 400, and 2000 grit sandpaper, you can restore their smoothness and prepare them for a long-lasting protective coat.

Why This Method Works

120 grit removes damaged finish and evens out rough spots. 400 grit smooths the surface for even finish application. 2000 grit burnishes the wood for a refined, slip-resistant feel before sealing.

Tools & Materials

• Wet/dry sandpaper: 120 grit (50-pack), 400 grit (25-pack), 2000 grit (100-pack)
• Orbital sander or sanding block
• Vacuum or dust brush
• Microfiber cloths
• Wood stain, paint, or polyurethane

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 120 grit: Remove old finish and imperfections. (50-pack)
• 400 grit: Smooth for finish application. (25-pack)
• 2000 grit: Burnish for a refined finish. (100-pack)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Preparation. Remove any carpeting and nails, then clean the treads thoroughly.
2. Coarse sanding. Use 120 grit sandpaper to strip away the old finish and level worn areas.
3. Intermediate smoothing. Switch to 400 grit sandpaper to refine the surface for the final sanding.
4. Final burnish. Lightly sand with 2000 grit sandpaper for a professional-grade, touch-friendly feel.
5. Apply finish. Stain, paint, or seal the treads, allowing each coat to dry fully before applying the next.

Special Considerations

Always sand along the grain to avoid visible scratches, especially on high-traffic areas.

Pro Tips

• Vacuum between grit changes to avoid dust contamination.
• Use a slip-resistant finish for added safety.
• Apply multiple thin coats for maximum durability.

Aftercare

• Clean regularly to prevent dirt buildup.
• Inspect annually for wear and refinish as needed.

FAQs

• Can I skip 400 grit? No—jumping from 120 to 2000 grit will leave scratches visible under the finish.
• Will 2000 grit make the treads slippery? No—slip resistance comes from the topcoat choice.
• Does this work for painted stairs? Yes—start with 120 grit to remove paint before smoothing.

Watch & Learn

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