Sand Surfaces and Control Dust

What happens in this clip

Once the wood filler is completely dry, it's time for sanding. To minimize dust spread throughout your home, tape up plastic sheeting around the stairwell opening, creating a barrier. Don a respirator mask to protect yourself from airborne dust particles. Then, use an orbital sander or a sanding block to sand the entire surface of the treads and risers, ensuring all filler is flush with the wood and the surface is smooth. The video shows extensive use of sanding.

Goal: Achieve a smooth, uniform surface on the stairs and contain sanding dust.

What's used

Tools

• N95 Respirator Mask 3M
• Orbital Sander
• Belt sander (for large flat areas)
• Painter's Tape
• Plastic Sheeting
• Safety Glasses
• Sanding Block
• and for final hand-sanding.
• Sandpaper
• Shop Vacuum

About the full video

This project details the process of transforming carpeted entryway stairs into sleek, modern hardwood stairs with dark stained treads and white painted risers. It covers everything from removing old carpet to preparing the surfaces, filling imperfections, sanding, staining, sealing, and finally painting, while providing practical tips for DIY enthusiasts.

Step 10 of 11: Sand Repaired Areas and Final Surface

Once the wood filler is completely dry, use a sanding block or fine-grit sandpaper (220 grit) to gently sand down the filled areas until they are flush with the surrounding wood. Then, lightly sand the entire surface of all treads and risers to ensure a uniform smoothness. Remove all sanding dust thoroughly with a vacuum and tack cloth.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Get a Hardwood Look on Carpeted Stairs

1. Step 1: Remove Carpet and Padding

   • 0:04–0:34 Remove Old Carpet and Padding
   • 0:21–0:50 Remove the Carpet
   • 0:44–2:00 Remove Old Carpet

2. Step 2: Remove Staples and Nails

   • 0:31–0:55 Remove Tack Strips and Staples
   • 0:13–0:38 Remove Carpet and Prep for Installation
   • 1:19–1:49 Remove Staples and Protruding Nails

3. Step 3: Inspect and Repair Stair Structure

   • 0:09–0:14 Repair and Prepare Stair Structure
   • 1:40–2:44 Prepare Surface by Filling Holes
   • 3:59–6:57 Replace Damaged Stair Treads or Risers

4. Step 4: Clean and Sand Stair Surfaces

   • 1:05–1:18 Vacuum Dust and Perform Fine Sanding
   • 0:51–0:57 Strip Old Finish from Tread Surfaces
   • 0:37–0:41 Sand the Staircase

5. Step 5: Measure and Cut Hardwood Treads and Risers

   • 6:09–11:07 Measure and Cut Treads
   • 0:43–0:52 Measure and Cut New Treads
   • 3:40–6:00 Measure and Cut Risers

6. Step 6: Install Hardwood Risers

   • 0:35–0:46 Install the Riser Boards
   • 2:49–3:19 Install Retro Risers
   • 3:55–5:35 Cut and Install Stair Risers

7. Step 7: Install Hardwood Treads

   • 10:00–11:40 Install Hardwood Treads and Risers
   • 0:49–2:35 Install the Tread and Nosing Components
   • 2:35–4:25 Secure New Stair Treads

8. Step 8: Install Stair Nosing (if applicable)

   • 4:41–5:53 Cut and Install Nosings
   • 0:37–0:41 Install Stair Nose Trim
   • 13:39–14:45 Measure and Install Stair Nosing

9. Step 9: Fill Nail Holes and Gaps

   • 16:00–16:30 Apply Wood Filler for Finishing Touches
   • 0:55–1:21 Apply Wood Filler to Blemishes
   • 0:07–0:25 Inspect and Fill Imperfections

10. Step 10: Sand Repaired Areas and Final Surface

    • 2:44–3:20 Sand Surfaces and Control Dust (this video)
    • 1:21–1:35 Sand and Clean Stairs
    • 1:47–2:00 Fill and Sand Risers

11. Step 11: Apply Finish (Stain and Sealant)

    • 0:45–0:59 Apply Protective Topcoat
    • 11:09–11:34 Apply Protective Wood Top Coat
    • 2:01–2:44 Apply Polyurethane Sealer