Sanding your wooden stairs is essential for restoring their appearance and removing surface imperfections such as scratches, dents, and stains. It also prepares the wood for refinishing, allowing you to apply a new stain, varnish, or sealant that enhances the wood’s natural beauty and protects it from further damage.
While it’s possible to sand your stairs yourself, it can be a difficult and time-consuming task, especially when it comes to working in tight spaces, such as corners and edges. Professional sanding ensures an even, smooth finish and uses specialised tools that can reach hard-to-access areas. Hiring a professional like Ryans Restoration guarantees a high-quality result and saves you time and effort.
The time required to sand your stairs depends on the condition of the wood and the size of the staircase. On average, stair sanding can take between one to two days. This includes preparation, sanding, and applying a finish. We will provide a more accurate timeline during our initial consultation.
Yes, refinishing your stairs after sanding is highly recommended. Sanding removes the protective layer on your stairs, leaving the wood exposed. Applying a finish, such as a stain, varnish, or sealant, protects the wood from moisture, wear, and damage while enhancing its appearance.
After sanding, you can choose from a variety of finishes, including polyurethane (both water-based and oil-based), varnish, or natural oil finishes like tung oil. Polyurethane provides durable protection, while oil-based finishes bring out the natural grain of the wood. The best finish for your stairs depends on your aesthetic preference and the level of foot traffic.
Wooden stairs don’t need to be sanded frequently. Typically, sanding is required every 10 to 15 years, depending on the level of wear and tear. However, if the stairs are heavily trafficked or damaged, more frequent sanding may be necessary.
Sanding can remove surface-level scratches and imperfections. However, deep scratches or dents may not be fully removed by sanding alone. In such cases, additional repairs or more aggressive sanding techniques may be needed to restore the surface.
Sanding does produce dust, but at Ryans Restoration, we use modern equipment with dust extraction systems to minimise the amount of dust produced. We take care to protect your home and leave the work area clean and tidy after the job is completed.
Yes, sanding prepares the surface of your stairs for a new finish, allowing you to change the colour by applying a different stain. After sanding, the wood is in its natural state and can be stained to match your desired look, from lighter, natural tones to darker, richer colours.
The cost of sanding stairs varies depending on the size and condition of your staircase, the type of wood, and the finish you choose. At Ryans Restoration, we provide a detailed estimate after assessing your specific needs during our consultation.
To keep your stairs looking their best after sanding and refinishing, regularly sweep or vacuum them to remove dirt and debris. Use a damp cloth for deeper cleaning, but avoid excess water, as it can damage the finish. Placing rugs or runners on high-traffic areas of the stairs can also help protect the wood from wear.
Sanding alone will not typically eliminate creaking. Creaks are often caused by loose boards or movement between the boards and the subfloor. However, during the sanding process, we can assess the staircase and make recommendations or repairs to help reduce or eliminate creaks.
Most wooden stairs, including those made from hardwoods like oak and softwoods like pine, can be sanded. However, the condition of the wood and the presence of any existing finishes will determine the best sanding approach. Our professionals can evaluate your staircase and advise on the best course of action.
After sanding and refinishing, we recommend allowing the finish to dry and cure for at least 24 hours before walking on the stairs. For heavier foot traffic or placing rugs or furniture on the stairs, it’s best to wait 48 to 72 hours to ensure the finish is fully cured.
Ryans Restoration offers professional, high-quality stair sanding services with a focus on craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. Our experienced team uses the best tools and techniques to restore your stairs to their original beauty while protecting them for long-term use. We tailor our services to meet your specific needs, ensuring that your staircase receives the best possible care and attention.
