The best way to sand stairs, based on the provided reference, involves a multi-step process using specific tools and sandpaper grits.
Sanding stairs effectively requires a combination of power tools for the main surfaces and hand tools or manual sanding for detailed and hard-to-reach areas. Following a structured approach ensures a smooth, clean surface ready for finishing.
Essential Steps for Sanding Stairs
Based on the reference, the recommended process for sanding stairs is as follows:
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Initial Sanding with Random-Orbital Sander:
- Begin the process by using an 80-grit sandpaper on your random-orbital sander.
- This step is crucial for removing the old finish, whether it's paint, varnish, or sealant.
- It also helps in smoothing out any existing surface imperfections on the stair treads and risers.
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Address Corners and Tight Spots with a Scraper:
- After the initial pass with the sander, use a scraper.
- This tool is ideal for tackling areas where the sander cannot reach effectively, such as corners and other hard-to-reach areas.
- Scraping helps remove built-up finish that power sanding might miss.
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Fine Sanding for a Smoother Finish:
- Once the bulk of the finish is removed and imperfections are addressed, switch to a finer grit.
- Follow up the initial sanding with 120-grit sandpaper.
- Use the random-orbital sander again where possible to achieve a smoother surface.
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Detail Sanding by Hand:
- Finally, perform hand-sanding.
- This is necessary for getting into very tight corners and sanding around obstacles like balusters or spindles where power tools are impractical or could cause damage.
- Use sandpaper (likely 120-grit or finer depending on the desired finish) folded or wrapped around a block for control.
Summary of Tools and Grits
To simplify the process, here's a quick look at the tools and sandpaper grits recommended:
| Tool | Grit Level | Purpose | Areas Covered |
|---|---|---|---|
| Random-Orbital Sander | 80-grit | Remove old finish, fix imperfections | Main tread/riser surfaces |
| Scraper | N/A | Remove built-up finish | Corners, tight areas |
| Random-Orbital Sander | 120-grit | Smooth surface | Main tread/riser surfaces |
| Hand Sandpaper | 120-grit+ | Detail smoothing | Around balusters, tight corners, edges |
This method ensures that the majority of the old finish and imperfections are efficiently removed, while tighter spots and detailed areas are properly addressed for a consistent, smooth result.
