Sand and Finish Treads

What happens in this clip

Once all treads are cut to shape, thoroughly sand each piece. Start with a coarser grit sandpaper (e.g., 80 or 100 grit) to remove any saw marks or imperfections, then progressively move to finer grits (e.g., 120, 150, 180, and finally 220 grit) to achieve a smooth, ready-for-finish surface. Pay special attention to the edges and corners, slightly easing them to prevent splintering. After sanding, thoroughly clean the treads to remove all dust particles. Apply a high-quality wood finish that is suitable for high-traffic areas, such as a durable polyurethane, epoxy, or a hardwax oil. Apply multiple coats as recommended by the product manufacturer, allowing adequate drying time between coats and light sanding with a very fine grit (e.g., 320 grit) between some coats for optimal adhesion and smoothness. This step enhances the beauty of the reclaimed wood grain and protects it from wear and moisture.

Goal: Prepare the surfaces of the cut reclaimed wood treads by sanding them smooth and applying a durable protective finish.

What's used

Tools

• Brushes / Rollers / Applicators
• Dust Mask / Respirator
• Hand Sanding Blocks
• Nitrile Gloves
• Orbital Sander or Belt Sander
• Safety Glasses
• Tack Cloth or Vacuum
• Various Grit Sandpapers

Materials

• Wood Finish (Polyurethane
• Hardwax Oil
• Epoxy) Minwax
• Osmo
• Bona
• General Finishes

About the full video

This analysis outlines the hypothetical steps to transform salvaged wood into unique treads for a spiral staircase, inspired by various staircase designs showcased in the video. While the video itself is a montage of finished products and not an instructional guide on creation, this project focuses on incorporating reclaimed wood for sustainable and characterful stair elements, aligning with the 'Woodworking > Reclaimed Wood & Upcycling' context.

Step 4 of 9: Prepare Wood Treads for Finishing

If the treads are wood, sand them smooth using fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 180-220 grit). Remove any old finish if necessary. Wipe away all sanding dust with a clean cloth or vacuum cleaner. Ensure the wood is clean and dry.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Update a Spiral Staircase

1. Step 1: Assess Existing Staircase Condition

   • 1:02–1:35 Visually Inspect for Staircase Wear and Damage
   • 0:00–0:53 Assess Damage & Prepare for Repair
   • 0:15–0:30 Initial Inspection and Hazard Identification

2. Step 2: Clean and Degrease Components

   • 2:29–3:41 Prep Day: Cleaning and Sanding
   • 1:52–2:08 Scrape Loose Paint Flakes
   • 0:34–0:40 Mechanically Remove Loose Rust and Flaking Material

3. Step 3: Prepare Metal Surfaces for Finishing

   • 0:37–0:41 Sand the Staircase
   • 0:07–1:27 Sand and Prime the Staircase
   • 0:32–1:08 Clean, Sand, and Tape the Staircase

4. Step 4: Prepare Wood Treads for Finishing

   • 0:20–0:25 Sand and Finish Treads (this video)
   • 0:21–1:25 Prepare Treads (Sanding and Cleaning)
   • 2:06–2:52 Sand Stair Treads and Risers

5. Step 5: Apply Primer to Metal Components

   • 0:20–0:23 Apply Rust-Inhibiting Primer
   • 2:51–3:32 Apply Oil-Based Primer
   • 0:32–1:06 Apply Rust-Inhibiting Primer

6. Step 6: Apply Finish to Metal Components

   • 3:22–4:09 Paint Metal Frame (Top Coat)
   • 0:14–0:28 Apply Oil-Based Enamel Topcoat to Iron
   • 2:25–2:48 Apply Top Coat Paint

7. Step 7: Apply Finish to Wood Treads

   • 4:29–5:04 Stain New Stair Treads
   • 3:22–3:28 Stain & Seal Stair Treads
   • 3:41–4:00 Seal Stained Treads

8. Step 8: Reassemble Staircase Components

   • 0:47–0:50 Reinstall Metal Railing
   • 0:22–0:31 Secure All Treads and Joints
   • 13:30–15:00 Install Stair Treads with Mechanical Fasteners

9. Step 9: Final Inspection and Touch-ups

   • 1:08–1:37 Final Assembly and Inspection