At DeckSeal, our goal is to ensure your deck remains in pristine condition, however if decks get neglected, weathered, and in need of some serious TLC, then sanding may be the best option in bringing it back to life.
Can You Sand a Deck? Yes, and Here’s How
Absolutely, you can sand a deck, and there are two primary methods to do so. The choice of method depends on the condition of your deck and the level of finish you’re aiming for. While we’ll provide a general overview, we’ll be mindful not to share too much, keeping our expertise in-house.
Method 1: Belt Sanding
Belt sanding is often the go-to method when dealing with larger areas or when the deck has been severely neglected. This process involves using a belt sander, which helps to remove the top layer of the wood, eliminating rough spots, splinters, and old stain or paint.
When we use belt sanders, we work through the paper grades. This allows us to remove the rough outer layer of the deck efficiently. After the initial pass, we switch to a finer grit, to smooth out the surface and prepare it for sealing or staining.
Method 2: Hand Sanding
Hand sanding is generally used for smaller areas or delicate sections of the deck, such as railings, stairs, or intricate woodwork.
For hand sanding, we typically start with a medium grit sandpaper, which provides enough abrasiveness to smooth out minor imperfections without being too aggressive. For a finer finish, we may use a finer grit, to ensure a smooth, even surface that’s ready for the final protective treatment.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Sanding Method
Choosing the right sanding method is crucial to achieving the best result. Belt sanding is efficient and effective for larger areas, but it requires experience to avoid gouging the wood. Hand sanding, while more time-consuming, offers greater control and precision, making it ideal for detailed work.
Regardless of the method, the goal is to create a smooth, clean surface that allows the new finish to adhere properly, ensuring long-lasting protection and beauty for your deck.
Conclusion
Sanding is a vital part of deck restoration, but it’s not something you should have to do often if regular maintenance is kept up. At DeckSeal, we’re committed to helping you maintain your deck so that sanding is not a regular necessity. If your deck does need sanding, rest assured that we have the expertise to do it right, using the appropriate techniques and tools to achieve the best results without compromising the quality of your wood.
Before any sanding begins, we always start with a thorough inspection of your decking. This initial step is crucial because it allows us to understand the condition of your deck and what’s needed to make it look (almost) as good as new. With the inspection complete, we adjust any raised nails and reset any protruding screws, ensuring the deck is safe and ready for the sanding process.
We believe that the most important part of our service is the initial inspection. Every deck is unique, and each requires a tailored approach. By taking the time to understand your specific needs, we can apply our tried-and-tested methods to achieve the best outcome for your deck.
