Do you need to clean decking boards before sanding?

[butters]

We are looking to refresh our two decking areas. 

Looking to hire the orbital sander from bunnings then just finish with a suitable oil.

Will I need to chemically clean the boards prior to sanding, or can I just give it a hose off to get rid of any loose dirt etc then sand it?

[MitchellMc]

Hi @butters,

If the decking is heavily contaminated with organic material or dirt, it would be a good idea to clean it before sanding. If you don't, you'll spread the contaminants around and onto the freshly sanded timber. I suggest using some Cabot's Deck Clean and a stiff bristle broom.

Make sure to allow the deck to fully dry before sanding.

Here are a few step-by-step guides you should find helpful: How to clean a deck, How to sand a deck and How to oil your deck.

Please let me know if you have further questions.

Mitchell

[butters]

The deck is quite clean, not heavily soiled with dirt or anything. Looks like it just needs a sweep/hose down to get rid of some loose grass clippings and dog hair.

[MitchellMc]

It sounds like you should be right to sand straight away, @butters. Still, let the deck dry fully if you hose it down.

Please take some before and after pictures for us. I trust our members would really appreciate checking out your results.

On a side note, does the deck need to be sanded? Has it greyed extensively, started to splinter, or are there raised fibres? I just wanted to ensure that you needed to sand and didn't think it was always compulsory before re-oiling.

Mitchell

[butters]

 Was a new build, not sure what oil/stain was used previously.

[MitchellMc]

It could definitely benefit from a sanding, @butters. 👍

After you have it all sorted, re-coating with your oil yearly is ideal. Or, in extreme circumstances, twice yearly. For a maintenance coat, it should only take 15 minutes to whip over the deck, saving you an incredible amount of work in the long run.

Mitchell