Deck refinishing: Random orbital or belt sander?

Hey guys, looking at stripping and refinishing my 12x20 deck this summer. It's got old semi-transparent stain that's peeling in spots. I've got a cheap palm sander but it's too slow. Should I get a random orbital sander or just go with a belt sander for the big flat areas? Budget is around $150.

For a deck that size, I'd say get both if you can, but if budget's tight, a good 5” random orbital with a dust bag will do the trick. Belt sanders are beastly but easy to gouge the wood if you're not careful. You'll want 60-80 grit for stripping, then 120 for smoothing. Check out the Makita BO5041K, it's a workhorse around $130.

Don't waste your money on anything but a Porter Cable or Festool – but since you're on a budget, go with the PC 382VS random orbital. It's variable speed and has a nice soft start. Belt sanders are too aggressive for a deck unless you're taking off serious thickness. And for god's sake, wear a dust mask – you don't want that junk in your lungs.

I've done a few decks with just a cheap HF random orbital and it worked fine. Key is to use a respirator and keep the sander moving. Also, consider a pressure washer with a surface cleaner attachment – it'll strip most of the loose stuff faster than sanding. Then just hit the stubborn spots with the sander. Saves time and dust.