Get matched with top sandblasting pros in Spring Valley, WI

You can concrete can be done when it’s wet or dry. However, it’s safer when wet, as harmful dust and chemicals are present. Sanding it when dry is faster, but you’ll agitate more dust and chemicals, meaning you’ll need to be more careful.

The best way to sand a deck is by cleaning it, sanding the boards and stairs with 60- or 80-grit sandpaper, and sanding the railings and posts with 80-grit sandpaper. You should sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid damaging the timber. When sanding your deck, use medium pressure and aim for an even sand. Pressing too hard with a sander can damage decks, as most are softwoods.

The disadvantages of sandblasting are noise, mess, and risk. Sandblasters are louder than chainsaws and spread debris on the ground and through the air. Let your neighbors know that you're sandblasting so they can prepare. Sandblasting can damage your property if not done properly, so thoroughly vet any pros you talk to before hiring.

If you’re DIYing the project, it could take up to a week if you aren’t able to dedicate full-time hours. If you hire a professional and they arrive with a team, expect your stairs to be sanded in as little as 2 hours (for simple projects). Finishing the stairs takes a while longer as there are drying and sealing times to consider, but the actual work will take much less time than the sanding portion.