How to Sand a Deck Before Staining: 60–150 Grit Plan (No Fuzz, No Cross-Grain Lines)

Stain lasts longer and looks richer on a properly sanded deck. This guide shows the exact grit progression and technique to remove weathered fibers, flatten cupping, and prep boards for even stain absorption—without raising fuzzy grain.

Before You Start

• Let new pressure-treated lumber dry to painting moisture levels (often weeks to months depending on climate).
• Drive or set proud nails/screws below the surface to protect sanding pads.
• Clean and rinse the deck thoroughly; allow to dry 24–48 hours.

Best Grits for Deck Prep

• 60–80 grit: Level cupping, remove gray, weathered fibers, strip light film finishes.
• 100–120 grit: Remove coarse scratches and even the surface for uniform color.
• 150 grit (max): Optional final pass on dense hardwoods or handrails only—don’t exceed 150 on deck boards or stain may not penetrate well.

Step-by-Step

1. Edge protection. Mask metal rail posts and glass. Work fasteners below the surface.
2. Flatten at 60–80. Use a 5" or 6" random-orbit sander on boards and a sanding block on edges. Keep the pad flat; move with the grain in slow, overlapping passes. Stop once gray wood and ridges are gone.
3. Refine at 100–120. Sand just enough to remove the 60–80 grit scratches. Check under raking light for swirl marks.
4. Optional 150 on details. Handrails, caps, and benches can get a light 150 pass for a smoother feel. Avoid over-polishing walking surfaces.
5. Dust control. Vacuum thoroughly, then wipe with a barely damp microfiber. Don’t flood the wood before staining.
6. Stain timing. Apply stain the same day after sanding if possible to minimize surface oxidation and dust contamination.

Pro Tips

• Use pencil squiggles as a guide coat; when they disappear evenly, you’re flat.
• Replace discs often—dull paper polishes instead of cutting and can glaze the surface.
• For splinters or checks, spot fill with exterior wood filler after the 100–120 pass, then re-sand locally.
• Silicon carbide sheets work for Wet or Dry Use (Uso en Seco o Húmedo), but dry sanding is preferred on decks to avoid swelling before stain.

Watch & Learn

Result: A flat, clean surface that drinks stain evenly and resists peeling, with smooth handrails that feel great.

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