Anyone try sanding a deck with an RS 2E?

[wubears71]

I think I may be trying to convince myself that I need the Rotex, but I just finished stripping my cedar deck and now I'm going to sand it.  I have the RS 2E and was going to use that, but I know the job may be easier using the Rotex (I think).  I haven't purchased the rotex yet because I haven't had a lot of need for it as I have a 150/3 and don't typically have to get agressive in my sanding.  This, however, may be my opportunity to convince myself to buy one.

With that being said, has anyone used the RS 2E to sand a deck?  If so, how did it go?  Or, should I just finally buy the darn Rotex so I can add it to my Festool collection (woo hoo another systainer!!!) [big grin]

Thanks in advance.

 

[Brice Burrell]

Tim, I see a Rotex in your future. Try the RS2E but I can't imagine it will do the job efficiently. Maybe, if your deck is small and the decking is mostly flat (no cupping).

 

[Administrator_JSVN]

Tim, I normally wouldn't weigh in on a topic like this but it just so happens that I have recent first hand experience in the matter.  I used my Rotex 150 to sand the deck boards and hand rails on my deck which is approximately 15' x 15'.  Took no time at all and did a great job. 

Technically, you could use the RS 2 E but it's just not going to be the optimal sander for the job.  You'd actually probably be better off using the 150/3 which has a slightly larger stroke (2.5mm vs. 3.0mm).  However, with either it would be a much slower process versus the gear-driven mode of the Rotex.

 

[wubears71]

Thanks.  Great Info.  I'll give both my RS2E and ETS 150 a try.  If it's a slow process, I definately see a Rotex in my future.

 

[WarnerConstCo.]

You guys like to work hard.

You need a big belt sander or a drum sander for a floor.

Be done in no time.  Go rent a floor sander, your knees will thank you.

The rotex will do it however.

 

[Administrator_JSVN]

You guys like to work hard.

You need a big belt sander or a drum sander for a floor.

Be done in no time.  Go rent a floor sander, your knees will thank you.

True about being on your knees but it would have taken longer to go rent a floor sander than what it took to sand it with the Rotex  [tongue]  Plus, can't make it look too easy or my wife will want me to do more projects...

 

[WarnerConstCo.]

You guys like to work hard.

You need a big belt sander or a drum sander for a floor.

Be done in no time.  Go rent a floor sander, your knees will thank you.

True about being on your knees but it would have taken longer to go rent a floor sander than what it took to sand it with the Rotex  [tongue]  Plus, can't make it look too easy or my wife will want me to do more projects...

I guess if it was PT pine or cedar it wouldn't be horrible.

I just have the convenience of having a drum sander for flooring.

I guess it did take you over a year to get that entry stand thing made. [poke]

I just know what my knees feel like after being down on them all day. 

 

[wubears71]

I spent the day sanding - 320 sq.ft + railing and used the RS2E the whole time.  It actually went very well and worked great.  There is no way that I would have done it if I didn't strip the deck first, but the RS2E  did a great job using 80 grit Rubin to get rid of all the rough spots.

Thanks again.