sanding back deck

[kez6]

I'm in the process of sanding back my deck (using a little orbital sander... takes ages!). I'm wondering if I'm doing too much/not enough. I've read about the perils of over sanding and then the oil not being absorbed properly. Any thoughts on these images? Enough? Not enough? Too much? Ive mostly been using 80grit... and a bit of 60. The dark pic is the original. 

[EricL]

Hello @kez6 

I am impressed with amount of progress you've reached with your orbital sander. Your second picture is what the deck is suppose to look like with no unevenness and blemishes. I'm sorry but it still not enough, I suggest looking at the For Hire: Orbital Floor Sander to sand your deck. This will definitely shorten your sanding time and provide you with an even finish.

Here are some handy step-by-step guides that will help you with your project:

• How to clean a deck
   
• How to sand a deck
   
• Choosing the right finish for your deck
   
• How to oil your deck

If you need further assistance, please let me know.

Eric

[kez6]

Thanks Eric. Should I be worried about "over sanding" - I feel like sometimes when I sand in one spot for a bit, the wood goes a darker colour... problematic?! Yeh, hiring a sander would have been a good option.... there's still a larger deck to come!!

[EricL]

Hello @kez6 

Best practice would be to sand over a section uniformly passing over once and not to stay still for any amount of time to prevent creating a low spot in your deck. Please remember to sand in the direction of the wood grain.

Eric