How to Sand Wooden Decks for Refinishing and Weather Protection (60–150 Grit)

Outdoor decks take a beating from sun, rain, and foot traffic. Over time, finishes fade, wood fibers raise, and splinters form. Sanding is the first step in restoring a deck’s appearance and preparing it for stain or sealer.

Why Sand Decks?

Sanding removes old coatings, evens out rough boards, and ensures stain or sealer penetrates evenly. It also improves safety by eliminating splinters and smoothing high-traffic areas.

Tools You’ll Need

• Belt sander or floor sander for large areas
• Detail sander or sanding sponge for edges
• Wet/dry sandpaper sheets (60–150 grit)
• Shop vacuum and tack cloth
• Protective gear: mask, goggles, ear protection

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 60 grit: Heavy removal of weathered wood and old coatings.
• 80 grit: General smoothing after coarse sanding.
• 120 grit: Prepping deck boards for stain or sealer.
• 150 grit: Optional final pass for a smoother barefoot-friendly finish.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Prep the deck. Remove furniture and sweep debris.
2. Start with 60 grit. Use 60 grit (50-pack) sheets for aggressive removal of rough wood.
3. Smooth with 80 grit. Refine surfaces with 80 grit (25-pack) for consistent texture.
4. Prep with 120 grit. Use 120 grit (50-pack) wet/dry sheets to ready boards for stain.
5. Optional final pass. For extra smoothness, finish with 150 grit on handrails and seating areas.
6. Clean thoroughly. Vacuum dust and wipe with tack cloths.
7. Apply finish. Use exterior-grade deck stain or sealer for weather resistance.

Special Cases

For pressure-treated wood, avoid oversanding—120 grit is typically enough. For cedar or redwood, sanding lightly preserves the soft wood fibers while preparing for stain.

Pro Tips

• Always sand with the grain to prevent scratches.
• Sand in dry conditions—wet wood clogs sandpaper quickly.
• Focus extra sanding on high-traffic areas like steps and railings.
• Use exterior finishes with UV protection to extend deck life.

Aftercare

• Reapply deck sealer every 1–2 years depending on climate.
• Clean decks seasonally to prevent mold and dirt buildup.
• Inspect boards annually for splinters or cracks.

FAQs

• Do I need to strip the old stain first? Not always—coarse sanding can remove most finishes.
• Can I use a pressure washer instead of sanding? Pressure washing cleans but doesn’t smooth—sanding is still needed.
• What grit is best before staining? 120 grit provides the right balance for stain absorption and smoothness.

Watch & Learn

Sanding decks restores beauty and extends their lifespan. Stock up on extra coarse sheets, medium grits, and fine sandpapers for your next deck refinishing project.