caring for new wood staircase in basement


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Old 09-18-19, 07:17 PM
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caring for new wood staircase in basement

Hi everyone,
I recently had a pinewood staircase installed in an unfinished basement. it's already pretty scuffed up from workers going up and down. My question is what is the best way to protect it and maintain it over the years? Basement gets a little humid during the summer months so I'm wondering what kind of treatment I should use. pretty sure I like the look of the wood and don't want to paint it. Thanks.
 
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Old 09-18-19, 08:17 PM
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If the wood is going to be clearcoated, you need to stop them from damaging it right now! It needs to be cleaned then protected with cardboard and tape. After the work is done, you will have a lot of sanding to do to get it clean and smooth. Staining is optional. If you want to stain it, you need to apply a wood conditioner a few minutes before you stain. Then you will want to finish it with a floor polyurethane finish.

I doubt the staircase is anything special... probably just your standard 2x12 treads in an unfinished basement.
 
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Old 09-18-19, 09:00 PM
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thanks. being that I'm inexperienced here, what's a good solution for cleaning unfinished wood before sanding and staining? I fear some of the boot stains will be difficult to remove at this point.
 
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Old 09-19-19, 03:45 AM
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Hard to say without seeing but sanding generally cleans them up well although it doesn't hurt to use a household cleaner first - before you grind any grime into the wood by sanding [should make for less aggressive sanding]
 
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Old 09-19-19, 04:12 AM
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A small 1/4 sheet sander and some 150 grit sand paper will make short work to bring back to new condition, if this is your standard 2x rough construction staircase a quick coat of stain and poly and your good to go!
 
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