Sand Stair Treads and Risers

What happens in this clip

Using an orbital sander equipped with a vacuum attachment, begin sanding the stair treads with 120-grit sandpaper to remove any imperfections and smooth the surface. Follow this with a second pass using 220-grit sandpaper for a finer finish. Manually sand the edges of the treads and risers with 220-grit sandpaper or a sanding sponge to ensure all surfaces are smooth and ready for primer. The vacuum attachment on the sander helps to minimize dust in the work area.

Goal: Sand the stair treads and risers, starting with 120-grit for initial smoothing, then finishing with 220-grit for a fine, paint-ready surface. Pay attention to sanding the edges thoroughly.

What's used

Tools

• 120-grit Sandpaper
• 220-grit Sandpaper
• Orbital Sander
• Sanding Sponge
• Vacuum Attachment (for sander)

About the full video

This video details the process of preparing, priming, and applying the first coat of paint to wooden staircase treads, risers, handrails, and newel posts. The goal is to create a durable, scratch-resistant, and easy-to-clean finish, suitable for high-traffic areas and eventual addition of a runner. The process emphasizes proper sanding, choice of oil-based primer for wood, and specialized paints for different components of the staircase.

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

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