Sanding & Polishing Timber Stair Treads and Risers

Precision Craftsmanship for a Luxurious Staircase Finish

Staircases are a key architectural feature in many homes and when finished correctly, they create a stunning visual transition between levels. At Revolution Floor Sanding we apply the same care, detail and premium techniques to stair treads and risers as we do to full timber floors.

Whether your stairs are newly installed or in need of restoration, our expert sanding and polishing process delivers a smooth, durable and beautifully refined finish.

What Are Treads and Risers?

- – Treads: The horizontal surfaces you step on.
- – Risers: The vertical panels between each tread.
Each requires a slightly different approach in preparation and finishing due to their position and function.

Our Process: Sanding & Polishing Timber Stairs

1. Detailed Assessment & Protection

We begin by inspecting the condition and construction of the staircase. This includes checking:

– The timber species and grain direction

– Surface wear, damage or old coatings

– Secure fixings or movement in the structure

We also carefully protect adjoining surfaces like walls, skirting and balustrades to ensure a clean, damage-free workspace.

2. Hand Sanding & Machine Sanding

Unlike flat flooring, stairs require a combination of:

– Detail hand sanding (for edges, corners, and risers)
– Compact machine sanding (for flat treads)

We remove old finishes, stains, paint or glue to reveal clean raw timber. The sanding process follows several stages:

– Coarse grit to strip back
– Medium grit to smooth the surface
– Fine grit to prepare for polishing

Edges and intricate joinery are given special attention to ensure every surface is perfectly prepped.

3. Cleaning & Dust Removal

Staircases collect dust easily in corners and edges so we take extra care in carefully vacuuming and cleaning between sanding and coating. This ensures a pristine finish and avoids imperfections in the polish.

4. Coating & Polishing

Once sanding is complete, we apply a premium-grade finish tailored to your needs:
Finish Options Include:
- – Water-based polyurethane: Low-odour, fast-drying and durable
- – Solvent-based polyurethane: Extremely hard-wearing with a deep finish
- – Hardwax oils: Natural matte finishes for a softer, organic feel
Multiple coats are applied by hand or roller, with light sanding between coats to ensure a flawless result.
You can choose from:
- – Matte: A natural, modern look
- – Satin: A soft, classic sheen
– Gloss: A rich, high-end shine

5. Final Touches & Inspection

We complete a final detail sand or buff (if needed), and conduct a thorough inspection of every tread and riser. The staircase is then handed over clean, polished and ready to impress.

The Result: A Statement Staircase

- - – Refined appearance with depth and clarity
  - – Durable protection for high-traffic use
  – Custom finish to complement your interior style