Refreshing Outdoor Wooden Decks with Sandpaper (60, 100, 150, 220 Grit Guide)

Outdoor decks endure constant exposure to sun, rain, and foot traffic. Over time, this leads to fading, splinters, and peeling finishes. Sanding is the first step to reviving a weathered deck before applying stain or sealant. With the right grit sequence, you’ll restore both safety and beauty to your outdoor space.

Why Sand Decks?

Sanding removes peeling coatings, smooths rough boards, and opens the wood grain so stains or sealers penetrate properly. Skipping this step often results in blotchy finishes and premature wear.

Tools You’ll Need

• Floor sander or orbital sander for large areas
• Sanding block for edges and corners
• Shop vacuum and broom
• Protective mask and safety glasses
• Heavy-duty sandpaper sheets

Best Grits for Deck Sanding

• 60 grit (50-pack) — Strips peeling paint or stain and levels splintered boards.
• 100 grit (100-pack) — Smooths after heavy stripping and evens the surface.
• 150 grit (25-pack) — Prepares the deck for stain absorption.
• 220 grit (100-pack) — Final pass for a clean, uniform surface before sealing.

Step-by-Step: Sanding an Outdoor Deck

1. Clear the area. Remove furniture, plants, and debris before starting.
2. Start with 60 grit. Use 60 grit sandpaper on a floor sander to remove old coatings and level the wood.
3. Smooth with 100 grit. Switch to 100 grit sheets for evening out rough areas.
4. Refine with 150 grit. Apply 150 grit sandpaper to prepare for staining.
5. Finish with 220 grit. Sand again with 220 grit sheets for a smooth, professional look.
6. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum and sweep before applying stain or sealer.

Special Cases

• Softwoods: Avoid over-sanding as it can close the grain and block stain penetration.
• Heavily weathered decks: Spend extra time with 60 grit to remove damage.
• Composite decking: Do not sand—use manufacturer’s cleaning methods instead.

Pro Tips

• Sand along the wood grain to reduce scratches.
• Replace sandpaper often—deck surfaces dull sheets quickly.
• Work in shaded conditions to prevent stain from drying too fast after sanding.

Aftercare

• Apply a high-quality deck sealer immediately after sanding.
• Reapply sealer every 1–2 years depending on exposure.
• Clean the deck regularly to extend the finish life.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand every time I re-stain? Light sanding with 150–220 grit improves adhesion for re-staining.
• Can I use a pressure washer instead of sanding? No—washing removes dirt but not old finishes or splinters.
• How long does sanding a deck take? Depending on size, 4–8 hours for most DIY projects.

Watch & Learn

Sanding is the foundation of any successful deck refinishing project. Stock up on deck sanding sheets and bring your outdoor space back to life with lasting beauty and durability.