The best type of sandpaper to use on a deck depends on the type of material and level of damage to the surface. If you’re refinishing or restoring a wood deck and it’s in good condition, you’ll likely want a medium to medium-fine grit sandpaper.
A grit range of 80 to 120 should be enough to smooth the surface and provide a nice even finish. If you’re refinishing a painted deck, use a finer grit sandpaper, such as 150 to 220 grit. If the deck is in poor condition, you may need to start with a coarser grit, such as 60 or 80 grit, to remove any large splinters or old finish.
It’s important to finish the sanding with a finer grit to ensure a smooth finish. For composite decks, you will generally want to start with a medium grit sandpaper, such as 80 grit, and move up to a finer grit, such as 120 grit.
This will give you the best results with the least amount of sanding.
Can you sand a deck too much?
Yes, it is possible to sand a deck too much. Sanding removes the outermost layer of dead wood, dulling the surface of the deck boards and making the wood more vulnerable to moisture damage. If you sand too much, the wood can become weak and brittle, and this can lead to cracking or splitting of the wood when exposed to weathering.
Additionally, if you sand too far down, you might expose the inner core of the wood, which can be an uneven surface, making a smooth, even finish impossible. It is recommended to sand your deck no more than 1/16 of an inch deep and to check the depth of your sanding every few passes with a thin piece of metal or a ruler.
Should I use an orbital sander on my deck?
That depends on the condition of your deck. An orbital sander may be an appropriate tool for removing the previous finish if your deck is in fair condition and you would like it to have a smooth finish.
However, if the wood has some major damage or large cracks, then an orbital sander may not be sufficient for restoring the deck to a safe and attractive condition. In this case, more intensive repairs may be necessary to bring your deck back to its former glory.
If there isn’t any major damage to the wood, an orbital sander can be used to sand the wood and prep it for staining and sealing. However, it is important to use the right grade of sandpaper and sand in the direction of the wood grain to achieve the best results.
When in doubt, it’s always best to consult with a professional who can recommend the proper course of action for restoring your deck.
Can I sand my deck with a floor sander?
No, it is not recommended to sand your deck with a floor sander. Floor sanders are specifically designed for sanding hardwood floors and are too powerful for the delicate wood of a deck. Decks are usually constructed from softer woods such as cedar or redwood, which could be damaged by the intense sanding action of a floor sander.
Additionally, the types of finishes used on decks, such as sealers, stains, and paints, require a more delicate sanding procedure than a floor sander is capable of. For this reason, you should use an orbital sander for sanding and refinishing decks, as these are specifically designed to work with softer woods and deck coatings.
What is the fastest way to sand a deck?
The fastest way to sand a deck is to use a power sander. Start by removing any furniture, décor, cleaning supplies, and other items from the deck. Make sure the deck is free of debris and clean before starting.
Next, choose the type and grit of sandpaper that is suitable for the type of wood you are working with. Generally speaking, a medium grade sandpaper of 80-grit should do the trick. Attach the sandpaper to the sander pad and put on safety goggles.
Begin sanding the deck using overlapping strokes, making sure to start from the outside corner and move inward. Sanding in the same direction as the grain will produce better results. Be sure to check the corners and tight spaces for missed spots, and dust away any leftover dust or debris.
When you have finished sanding the deck, use a draw-knife to smooth any rough edges and to remove splinters. Finally, check that the whole deck is smooth and even, and apply a sealant to protect the wood.
Should I wash deck after sanding?
Yes, you should always wash your deck after sanding. This will help to remove any dust particles, as well as any of the old sealant or paint that you may have been sanding away. By cleaning your deck, you can ensure that the best possible surface is prepared for painting or staining.
To wash your deck, first use a power washer on a low setting and sweep away any dirt or debris that has been collected on the deck’s surface. Next, scrub your deck with a cleaning solution appropriate for decks, such as soap and water or a specialized deck cleaner, and a soft brush.
Finally, rinse off the cleaning solution with the power washer and let the deck air dry before applying the new paint or stain.
Can a drum sander be used on a deck?
Yes, a drum sander can be used on a deck for sanding and refinishing. Drum sanders are best suited for removing a thick layer of weathered finish from decks and are capable of sanding most types of wood.
They are a good choice for larger deck surfaces, as they are faster and more efficient than other types of sanders. When using a drum sander on a deck, be sure to wear proper safety gear, including safety glasses and a dust mask to protect against flying particles.
The sander should be adjusted according to the type of deck and its condition. Make sure to keep the sander moving over the surface of the deck in straight lines to ensure an even finish. It is important to sand in the direction of the grain to avoid damaging the wood.
After sanding, use a vacuum or broom to clean up the area and apply a sealer to protect the deck.
What if it rains after sanding deck?
If you sanded your deck just before it rains, you will need to clean up the dust to protect yourself and your deck. You should use a brush, broom or vacuum cleaner to sweep up the dust before it is washed away by the rain.
Moisture exposure after sanding may cause wood grain to swell and warping may occur if the wood is not fully dry. If the deck has been sealed, the sealant may be damaged by rain exposure if it has not had time to fully cure.
If the deck is not sealed, the wood may be at risk of mold and mildew growth if there is moisture present. The best way to protect against these problems is to wait until the deck has had time to dry completely before exposing it to rain.
Can I pressure wash my deck instead of sanding?
Yes, you can pressure wash your deck instead of sanding it. Pressure washing can be a safe and effective way to remove dirt, debris, and old stain or sealer from your deck. Unlike sanding, pressure washing is typically much faster and often produces great results.
The pressure of the water can work its way into the cracks and crevices in your deck’s surface, dislodging any caked on dirt, debris, or old products. However, it’s important to be careful with pressure washing because the high pressure of the water can damage delicate parts of your deck, such as railings and posts.
If you decide to pressure wash, you should always use the lowest pressure setting possible and keep the wand moving so you don’t damage the deck’s surface. If done correctly, pressure washing can restore the look of your deck without the time and effort of sanding.
Is a belt sander good for sanding decks?
A belt sander is ideal for sanding decks, as the powerful motor allows for faster and more efficient sanding than with traditional hand and orbital sanders. Belt sanders can easily remove old paint, varnish, and stain from the surface of a deck, leaving the wood extremely smooth and ready for a new finish.
When sanding with a belt sander, it is important to use the right grain size (grit) and keep the sander moving in overlapping passes with light pressure. Using a belt sander also makes it easier to sand into any corners or tight spaces.
Furthermore, a dust extractor attachment on the sander can help control the mess, which is often a major concern when sanding outdoor wooden decks. In summary, a belt sander and dust extractor is a great tool for quickly and effectively sanding a deck.
What kind of sander Do I need to sand my deck?
The type of sander you will need to sand your deck depends on the type of deck you have and the desired outcome. If you have a wood deck, you should use either a hand-held random-orbit sander or belt sander.
A random-orbit sander is best for most general sanding jobs and is great for quickly removing old finishes, resulting in a smooth finish. It is also relatively easy to use, and it helps protect the wood from being over-sanded.
A belt sander is best for more aggressive projects, such as removing walking surfaces and large amounts of material. The belt sander can also be used to help smooth a rough-cut surface, but it requires a fair amount of skill to use properly.
If you have a composite deck, you should use a variable speed random orbit sander. This type of sander is designed specifically for composite decking materials and is best suited for smoothing the surface of composite decking.
It is important to start out with a moderate speed setting to avoid damaging the deck and to always sand in the direction of the grain. It is also important to take safety precautions, including wearing a dust mask and safety glasses, to protect yourself from flying debris while sanding.
