Strip Old Finish from Tread Surfaces

What happens in this clip

Begin the sanding process by using a random orbital sander (e.g., Festool ETS 125 REQ) equipped with 80-grit sandpaper. This initial coarse grit is essential for effectively stripping away the worn-out polyurethane and any underlying stains or imperfections down to the bare wood. Apply even pressure and move the sander systematically across the main flat surface of each stair tread. Pay attention to dust collection; if your sander has a dust extraction port, connect it to a shop vacuum to minimize airborne dust. Work carefully to avoid oversanding any single spot, especially if dealing with a veneered tread.

Goal: Strip the bulk of the old finish from the main surface of the stair treads using a random orbital sander, starting with a coarse grit sandpaper.

What's used

Tools

• 80-grit Sandpaper
• Dust Mask/Respirator
• Hearing Protection
• Random Orbital Sander
• Safety Glasses
• Shop Vacuum (with hose and dust port attachment)

About the full video

This project provides step-by-step instructions on how to refinish worn-out stair treads, focusing on effective sanding techniques in tight spaces and proper polyurethane application for durability. It covers preparing the treads, removing old finishes, dealing with corners and edges, and applying multiple protective coats.

Step 4 of 11: Clean and Sand Stair Surfaces

After repairs, vacuum the stairs thoroughly to remove any dust or debris. Wipe down the surfaces with a tack cloth or a slightly damp rag. Next, use an orbital sander with medium-grit sandpaper (e.g., 80-120 grit) to sand the entire surface of each tread and riser. This will remove any remaining residue and create a uniform, smooth surface. Follow up with fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 180-220 grit) for a smoother finish. Clean off all sanding dust thoroughly.

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 (this video)
   • 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
    • 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