How to Remove the Grade Stamp From a New Deck

If you didn't notice them during the construction of the deck, you surely saw them once it was completed. When you looked over the project, you probably wondered what those inky marks of numbers, letters and strange symbols on the lumber was. They're called "grade stamps." Each one shows not only the rating of the lumber according to the National Standard but other information such as certification mark, mill mark, species mark, moisture content and more. Before you finish the deck by painting or applying a sealer, remove the grade marks so they can't be seen.

Things You'll Need

• Dust mask
• Safety goggles
• Work gloves
• Pole sander
• 80-grit sandpaper

Show More

Instructions

1. • 1

     Put on a dust mask, work gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from the sawdust created by removing the grade marks.

   • 2

     Secure a sheet of fine sandpaper to a pole sander. Typically, the sandpaper clips to the head.

   • 3

     Sand the grade marks in the direction of the wood grain. Lightly sand the deck to remove only the ink.

   • 4

     Wipe away the sawdust after 30 seconds or so with your gloved hand to inspect your progress. Continue sanding the grade marks until they're completely gone.