skip to main content

Porches & Decks

To refinish deck boards: wash first or sand first?

13 years ago

For 2 summers I've been refinishing my deck with TWP200. The arbor has been rebuilt and TWP'd (last year). This year I've sanded all the railings and skirting and TWP'd that.

I'm down to the deck boards. For blog posts of the deck project, click here.

Here's a pic. Should I wash the boards (2x6) first (no pressure washer) or just start sanding. (Note: all nails/screws have been recessed and minor repairs done.) Thoughts would be appreciated. Meanwhile, I'm off to buy a disc sander. The ROS would take me forever to do....

Thanks!

Kris

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (2)

kiddo_1
Original Author
13 years ago
A followup -- I'm now convinced a disc sander is not the solution. This weekend I'm going to rent an orbital floor sander. I plan on using 60 & 80 grit because I couldn't get the nails down more than 1/8 inch so don't want to take off too much wood.

This outta be interesting...

P.S. I don't see any reason then to prewash?
mike13
13 years ago
Most the decking I saw looks fairly gray. I would use the Woodrich products for a light stripping/cleaning & then the brightener. It would save a lot of sanding.
Related Professionals
Coronado Decks, Patios & Outdoor Enclosures · Fredonia Decks, Patios & Outdoor Enclosures · Miami Decks, Patios & Outdoor Enclosures · Northbrook Decks, Patios & Outdoor Enclosures · Rogers Decks, Patios & Outdoor Enclosures · Wentzville Decks, Patios & Outdoor Enclosures · West Chicago Decks, Patios & Outdoor Enclosures · Bellview Home Builders · Ft Washington Flooring Contractors · Laguna Niguel Flooring Contractors · Mashpee Flooring Contractors · Shoreline Flooring Contractors · Snellville Flooring Contractors · Saco Siding & Exteriors · North Reading Siding & Exteriors

Related Stories

MOST POPULAR First Things First: How to Prioritize Home Projects

By Alison Hodgson

What to do when you’re contemplating home improvements after a move and you don't know where to begin

GREAT HOME PROJECTS How to Refinish a Wood Deck

By Christine Tusher

Keep your deck looking its best — and save feet from splinters — by applying a new stain and sealant every year or so

REMODELING GUIDES Considering a Fixer-Upper? 15 Questions to Ask First

By Sarah Phipps Design

Learn about the hidden costs and treasures of older homes to avoid budget surprises and accidentally tossing valuable features

MOST POPULAR A First-Time Buyer’s Guide to Home Maintenance

By Christine Tusher

Take care of these tasks to avoid major home hassles, inefficiencies or unsightliness down the road

LIFE Houzz Call: Who'll Post the First Snow Photo of 2013?

By Becky Harris

If the weather's been flaky in your neck of the woods, please show us — and share how you stay warm at home

ARCHITECTURE Get a Perfectly Built Home the First Time Around

By Bud Dietrich, AIA

Yes, you can have a new build you’ll love right off the bat. Consider learning about yourself a bonus

GREAT HOME PROJECTS What to Know Before Refinishing Your Floors

Learn costs and other important details about renewing a hardwood floor — and the one mistake you should avoid

GARDENING AND LANDSCAPING 28 Outdoor Projects Everyone Should Know About

By Mitchell Parker

Learn how to refinish your wood deck, make a garden fountain, add a shed and more

DIY PROJECTS Cool Tip: Mimic Stain With a DIY Color Wash

Get the look of an oil-based stain without all the bother, using this easy wash made with paint

HOUSEKEEPING How to Wash Your House

By Laura Gaskill

Avoid damage to siding and plants while getting your home's exterior shining clean, with this guide to using pressure washers and hoses

Sponsored

EK Interior Design

5 Reviews

TIMELESS INTERIOR DESIGN FOR ENDLESS MEMORIES

More Discussions

Any one used Panoramic Doors - please share your opinion

4

Soffit and Deck Colour Advice

3

Should entry doors match?

6

Looking for design ideas to restore/facelift our front house.

4

Need a Stylish & Safe Front Porch: Non-Slip / Stamped Concrete Inspo

0