Prep Day: Cleaning and Sanding

What happens in this clip

Begin day one of the makeover by thoroughly cleaning the staircase surfaces. Use 'Krud Kutter' degreaser, a stain remover, and a microfiber cloth to remove all oil, grease, and grime. After cleaning, use 100-grit sandpaper and a sanding block to sand the entire railing, spindles, and any other wooden components. This step is crucial to remove the existing varnish, dull the glossy surface, and create a matte finish that allows new products to adhere properly. Wipe away all dust with a damp microfiber cloth to prepare for the next steps.

Goal: Clean and sand all wooden surfaces of the staircase to prepare for staining and painting.

What's used

Tools

• Microfiber Cloth
• Sponge
• Sanding Block (120-grit) Norton ProSand Dual Angle Sanding Sponge
• Detail sander
• Sandpaper (100-grit) Norton ProSand

Materials

• Krud Kutter Degreaser Krud Kutter
• Heavy-duty household cleaner
• grease
• and grime from the staircase.

About the full video

This project details a DIY budget-friendly makeover of a 90s-era orange oak staircase, transforming it into a modern two-tone look with dark walnut stained railings and white painted spindles, aiming to achieve a cohesive aesthetic with the rest of the home's dark wood accents. The process involves extensive preparation including cleaning, sanding, and meticulous taping, followed by multiple coats of gel stain and primer, and finally painting the spindles and applying a protective top coat.

Step 1 of 5: Clean the Banister

Using a degreaser and a sponge or cloth, scrub the banister from top to bottom. Pay special attention to any sticky spots or build-up. Rinse the banister with clean water and a damp cloth, then allow it to dry completely. This step is crucial for the adhesion of primer and finish.

Open this step in the guide

Other videos for this step

• Clean, Sand, and Tape the Staircase
• Clean and Degloss