Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - Sanding deck after power washing

I powerwashed my deck and I want to sand down the rough spots now before sealing it. What grit of sandpaper should I use? The deck is pressure treated pine...Also, what tool can I use to speed up the process? Belt sander? I have a small handheld orbital sander but I'm afraid that will scratch the wood since it wouldn't be going with the grain.

I am in the process of doing the same. I started to use an orbital with 80 grit, then switched to a belt sander also with 80grit. Did a much better job. A bit hard on the knees. Knee pads would help.

I have an orbital sander...would have to buy the belt sander.

The orbital didn't scratch the wood?

I doubt the orbital sander would noticably scratch the wood but if it does, switch or finish up with a finer grit. The stain should hide any minor sanding scratches.

When a deck is cleaned properly there shouldn't be a need for sanding. Raised grain is often caused by either too strong of a bleach solution [which damages wood fibers] or too much pressure was used ie; wrong tip or tip too close to the wood..... just so you know, so it will be easier next time :D

hurricanefloyd,

How big is the deck?

An orbital sander (or a random orbit would be better) will work fine on a small deck, but if it's very large, I would rent a floor sander and get it done quicker and without causing knee problems.

And treated pine -- definitely wear a mask!

I agree a floor sander would be quicker but you need to make double sure all the nails/screws are countersunk!!

it was definitely too much pressure, too close to the wood. the deck isn't huge...maybe 20x10 or close to that.

A deck shouldn't be overly smooth to seal, I use 36 grit if I have a lot to remove, but finish with 100 grit.