To manually sand a deck effectively, the best approach involves cleaning the deck first, then sanding the boards and stairs with 60- or 80-grit sandpaper, and finally sanding the railings and posts with 80-grit sandpaper. It's crucial to sand in the direction of the wood grain to prevent damage. Use medium pressure and aim for a consistently even finish across all surfaces.
Sanding is a vital step in deck maintenance, preparing the wood for staining or sealing by removing old finishes, dirt, and imperfections. While power sanders are often used for large areas, the principles of manual sanding, focusing on technique and appropriate grit, remain key whether using a sanding block or a handheld orbital sander.
Steps for Manually Sanding Your Deck
Follow these steps for a thorough manual deck sanding process based on recommended practices:
Step 1: Clean the Deck Thoroughly
Before any sanding begins, ensure the deck surface is clean. Remove all furniture, sweep away loose debris, and wash the deck using a dedicated deck cleaner and a stiff brush. Rinse thoroughly and allow the deck to dry completely. Sanding over dirt or grime can push it into the wood grain or cause scratches.
Step 2: Sand Boards and Stairs
Using 60- or 80-grit sandpaper, begin sanding the deck boards and stairs.
- Start with 60-grit if the deck has a thick old finish or significant imperfections.
- If the deck is in better condition or you started with 60-grit and need to smooth it further, switch to 80-grit.
- Always sand in the direction of the wood grain. Sanding across the grain can leave visible scratches that are difficult to remove.
- Apply medium pressure and work steadily to achieve an even sand across each board. Over-sanding one spot can create depressions.
Step 3: Sand Railings and Posts
The railings and posts require a slightly finer touch due to their shape and visibility.
- Use 80-grit sandpaper for these areas.
- Again, sand following the direction of the wood grain on all surfaces of the railings and posts.
- Pay attention to detail, especially on spindles or decorative elements, ensuring an even finish.
Sandpaper Grit Recommendations
Using the correct grit sandpaper is essential for preparing the wood surface properly.
| Deck Area | Recommended Sandpaper Grit | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Boards & Stairs | 60-grit or 80-grit | Removing finish, smoothing surface |
| Railings & Posts | 80-grit | Smoothing and preparing for finish |
Using 60-grit is more aggressive for removing stubborn finishes or correcting surface issues, while 80-grit provides a smoother finish suitable for subsequent staining or sealing. Finishing with 80-grit generally provides an excellent surface for most deck finishes.
Important Sanding Techniques
- Direction Matters: Consistently sanding in the direction of the wood grain is non-negotiable for a professional look and to prevent damage.
- Even Pressure: Maintain medium, even pressure. Too much pressure can gouge the wood, while too little may not effectively remove the old finish or smooth the surface.
- Work in Sections: Tackle the deck in manageable sections, completing each section before moving on to the next to ensure uniformity.
- Clean Dust: Regularly remove sanding dust using a brush or vacuum cleaner. This allows you to see your progress and prevents the dust from interfering with the sanding process.
Following these steps and techniques will help you effectively sand your deck manually, leaving the wood properly prepared for its next protective coating.
