Sanding and Refinishing Wooden Stair Treads for a Smooth, Safe Finish (80–320 Grit Guide)

Wooden stair treads can take a beating over the years, with foot traffic, pets, and furniture causing scratches, dents, and worn finishes. A proper sanding and refinishing job not only restores their beauty but also improves safety by creating an even, non-slip surface. The 5-Inch 8-Hole Sanding Discs, Hook & Loop, Assorted Grit (50-Pack) provide the perfect grit range for every step of the process.

Why Sanding is Essential for Stair Refinishing

Sanding removes old finish, levels uneven spots, and prepares the wood to bond with new stain or sealant. By progressing through the right grit sequence, you avoid deep scratches while achieving a silky, professional look.

Tools & Materials

• 5-Inch Assorted Grit Sanding Discs (80, 120, 180, 220, 320 grit)
• Random orbital sander
• Shop vacuum with dust hose
• Tack cloths
• Wood stain or clear coat
• Painter’s tape and drop cloths

Recommended Grit Sequence for Stair Treads

• 80 Grit: Removes old finish, paint, or heavy wear.
• 120 Grit: Smooths out coarse sanding marks.
• 180 Grit: Refines the surface before finish application.
• 220 Grit: Creates an even texture for stain or sealer.
• 320 Grit: Final pass for a silky, smooth feel.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Wooden Stairs

1. Prep the Area: Remove rugs and clear the stairs. Tape off areas you don’t want to sand and cover nearby furniture with drop cloths.
2. Start with 80 Grit: Attach an 80 grit disc and sand each tread, keeping the sander moving in even passes to avoid gouging.
3. Progress to 120 Grit: Smooth out the coarse scratches left by the 80 grit.
4. Refine with 180 Grit: Lightly sand to create a uniform surface.
5. Fine Sanding with 220 Grit: Prepares the wood for finish by smoothing minor imperfections.
6. Final Pass with 320 Grit: Ensures a touchably smooth tread surface.
7. Clean Thoroughly: Vacuum and wipe each tread with a tack cloth.
8. Apply Finish: Use your chosen stain or clear coat, following the manufacturer’s instructions for drying and recoating.

Pro Tips for Stair Refinishing

• Sand with the grain whenever possible for the best finish.
• Use an edge sander or hand-sand corners where the orbital sander can’t reach.
• Always wear a dust mask and hearing protection.
• Consider adding a non-slip additive to the final coat for safety.

Aftercare

• Place mats at entrances to reduce tracked-in grit.
• Wipe spills immediately to prevent staining.
• Clean with a damp cloth and avoid harsh chemicals.
• Reapply protective finish every few years, depending on wear.

FAQs

• Can I refinish stairs without sanding? Not if the finish is damaged—sanding ensures proper adhesion of new coatings.
• How long does it take? Typically 1–2 days including drying time for finishes.
• Can I use these discs on a palm sander? Only if the sander is compatible with 5-inch hook & loop discs.

Watch the Process

Whether you’re restoring historic stairs or just freshening up a high-traffic area, the 5-Inch 8-Hole Sanding Discs (50-Pack) give you the range and quality needed to achieve a flawless, durable result.