Sand and Prime the Staircase

What happens in this clip

Once all fillers and caulk have dried completely, lightly sand all treated surfaces and other parts of the staircase to ensure a perfectly smooth and even finish. Pay close attention to areas where filler or caulk was applied, ensuring they blend seamlessly with the existing surface. Use a sanding sponge for curved or intricate areas and a sanding block for flat surfaces. After sanding, thoroughly clean the staircase to remove all dust and debris, creating an optimal surface for primer application. Finally, apply a coat of INSL-X STIX bonding primer to all surfaces of the staircase. This primer is designed to adhere well to various surfaces, providing an excellent base for the final paint coats.

What's used

Tools

• INSL-X STIX Primer
• Paint Brush
• Paint Roller
• Sanding Block
• Sanding Sponge
• Tack Cloth/Damp Rag
• Vacuum Cleaner

About the full video

This video details the process of preparing a staircase for painting, focusing on filling cracks, bumps, and imperfections, as well as sealing gaps. It showcases the application of various fillers and caulking products, followed by sanding and priming, ultimately leading to a smooth, paint-ready surface. The video then concludes by showing the final painted and carpeted staircase.

Step 3 of 9: Prepare Metal Surfaces for Finishing

Using medium-grit sandpaper (e.g., 120-grit), sand all metal surfaces of the staircase, including the central pole, treads, and railing. Pay attention to any rough spots or existing imperfections. After sanding, wipe down all surfaces with a tack cloth or a clean rag dampened with mineral spirits to remove all dust and residue. Allow the metal to dry completely.

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 (this video)
   • 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
   • 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