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Surface Preparation: Sanding and Repairs

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What happens here

After pressure washing, prepare the deck surface for staining. This involves using an orbital sander with 40-grit sandpaper to remove any remaining old stain, smooth rough areas, and eliminate 'furring' (raised wood fibers). Inspect the deck for damage: set any popped nails flush with the wood using a hammer, remove any obstructive vines that promote rot, and replace severely damaged or warped boards using a circular saw and drill. These repairs ensure a safe and smooth surface for the new stain.

Goal: Smooth the deck surface, repair damage, and ensure optimal stain adhesion.

Tools and materials

  • 40-grit Sandpaper — Sanding the deck for optimal surface preparation
  • Circular Saw Ridgid — Cutting out and replacing damaged deck boards
  • Drill DeWalt — Securing new deck boards with screws
  • Hammer — Setting popped nails flush with the deck boards
  • Orbital Sander Bosch — Smoothing the deck surface and removing old finish
  • Pry Bar — Removing old, damaged deck boards
  • Wire Cutters — Removing old vines from the deck structure
  • Deck Screws — Securing new deck boards
  • New Deck Boards — Replacing severely damaged or warped sections of the deck