What should be done after sanding and before painting?

What should be done after sanding and before painting?

• A. Clean the surface thoroughly
• B. Apply primer immediately
• C. Mask the area
• D. Wipe with water only

Answer: (A)

After sanding, the surface must be cleaned thoroughly. Sanding creates fine dust and can leave oils, waxes, or other contaminants on the surface. If these residues remain, the paint may not adhere properly, resulting in a textured finish, dull spots, or adhesive failures like fisheyes. Cleaning with a tack cloth or lint-free wipe using an appropriate solvent or cleaner ensures all dust and oils are removed and the surface is dry before priming and painting. Masking off surrounding areas is important, but it’s done to protect against overspray and typically comes after cleaning and before the paint is applied. Wiping with water only won’t reliably remove oils or deeply embedded contaminants and can introduce moisture.

After sanding, the surface must be cleaned thoroughly. Sanding creates fine dust and can leave oils, waxes, or other contaminants on the surface. If these residues remain, the paint may not adhere properly, resulting in a textured finish, dull spots, or adhesive failures like fisheyes. Cleaning with a tack cloth or lint-free wipe using an appropriate solvent or cleaner ensures all dust and oils are removed and the surface is dry before priming and painting. Masking off surrounding areas is important, but it’s done to protect against overspray and typically comes after cleaning and before the paint is applied. Wiping with water only won’t reliably remove oils or deeply embedded contaminants and can introduce moisture.