So, You want a Deck Sander?

It seems, since my article on the fiasco I went through with my deck sanding project, my blog is now the #2 hit on google for "Rent Deck Sander" searches, increasing my hits to a nice number. I've decided to give back to the community with some helpful advice on the process I went through...

My Goal:
Restore old splintered deck, without replacing wood.
Size: About 100 x 50 ft.
Time: About 4 hours
Type of deck: non treated, non color wood.

Do's:

• Most tool renters have floor sanders available. When you rent one, make sure they say its okay to use on the deck. This may help you from being liable if it breaks.
• Use a jitter bug type (sander shakes side to side or does circular motion)
  
• Shop around. Some are by the hour, others are by the day. I personally preferred the hour method.
• Floor sanders are heavy, make sure you have two people to get the device on your deck, and out of your car.
• Make sure the renter will buy back, unused sand paper. This way you can be safe and over stock without costs.
  
• Use 60 Grit sand paper.
• Get a new pad (goes between sandpaper and device) when using the floor sander
  
• Use belt sander on rails.
• Go around the edges with a belt sander after using floor sander
  
• Spot sanding by hand (for grooves in wood).
• When using stain, spend the extra money on something that will last longer.
• Consider a solid color to hide inconsistencies in your wood.

[Newer Edits]

• If using a solid stain, use 2 coats, as the first will all get absorbed by your wood. This will also help prevent flaking the next year
• There's a good chance your wood was pressure treated. Use the proper health and environment precautions when sanding your wood.
  

Dont's:

• Don't use a hand/belt sander on main deck, it will take forever, plus you are more subject to chemicals in treated "pressed wood".
• Don't use the belted floor sanders, these have way too much torque and would eat into your wood a bit too fast and deep.
  
• Don't use equipment in the direct summer sun. Motor more likely to burn out.
• Don't use power water sprayer. This can leave uneven grooves, plus sharp edges that would need to be done over with a belt sander.
• Don't apply sealant until the entire area has been cleaned of sawdust. I recommend a shop-vac with some decent HP.
  
• Don't wait longer then a month or two to get the sealant on, as your deck is basically naked to the elements.
• Don't be cheap. There is a right tool for the right job. Use it!
  
• Don't take my advice as an end-all, but rather as a supplement to your research.
  

Note: there is a difference between a deck sander and a floor sander. Deck sanders have multiple sander wheels to handle uneven surfaces. Floor sanders are generally one big square of sandpaper. If your tripping over your deck because its so uneven, a floor sander won't work.

When I began, I couldn't get across the deck, without getting at least one splinter in the foot. After my work was completed (sanding, seal, etc), I am now able to moon walk bare footed on the deck!