Refinishing stair steps

[anonfool72]

Hello,

I plan to refinish the last two steps of what I think is an oak staircase (photos attached). I’m new to this and my understanding is that I need to sand to remove the old finish before applying the new one. I only plan to refinish the top surfaces.

Two questions:

1 - is sanding enough to remove the old finish, if so what sand paper grit would be advisable?

2 - I’m confused about the finish to use, should I go for water based poly, oil based poly or something else? Drying time / curing time& durability are important.

Thank you!

 

[blup]

A random orbit sander and suitable grit paper, plenty of elbow grease. You will also need to hand sand the corners that cannot be reached. Not a quick job

Blup

 

[Tigercubrider]

What does it look like under the stairs?
the wood could be a solid oak, or cladding, or a veneer like thin material.

Don’t go nuts on the sanding.

 

[foxhole]

Water based is quick drying but less resistant to wear .

 

[Deleted member 174758]

Oak, being an open pore timber, doesn't need finishing much beyond P120 grit, but bear in mind that it will retain old finish in the pores