Expert: Joseph G. Swallow - 7/27/2008

Question
We purchased a house with carpet on the staircase. When we removed the carpeting, we found partially (on each end) stained oak steps. Now I want to strip off the "partial" stain, prep the unfinished centers, and refinish them to match our lighter wood floors. Hubby says you can't remove stain from wood. I don't know where to start. Any help would be appreciated!!

Answer
It involves a little bit of work, but it can be done.  You would need a belt sander (with 100 grit or 120 grit), an orbit sander, and/or (if available) an edge sander.  The varnish can be removed with a lot of different off the shelf products, specifically for polyurethane which is most often used on steps.  Once that project is done, you simply sand the treads, beginning with the belt sander, to get down through the poors to raw "pink" oak.  An orbit sander does well for finishing and working along the edges.  But an edge sander or corner sanding block will be needed in the corners.  Once they are sanded out you can apply your matching stain or simply clear coat the oak.