Painting with latex paint is a great way to get a smooth finish on things like cabinets and doorframes. Latex paint can finish with brush strokes or other objects like dirt showing. The best way to achieve that smooth finish is the sand the latex paint.
Latex paint should be sanded using a light touch and a damp rag. For the most part, a good practice is to sand the paint between each coat as it helps get rid of messy paint or scabs. The sandpaper should range between 120-150 (for fresh paint) and 180-220 (for cured) grit.
Obviously, paper is not the only important thing to know about sanding latex paint. Wait-time and sanding techniques are important too. Otherwise, painters might accidentally sand off or scratch already placed paint.
How long should I wait to Sand latex paint?
The wait time between painting and sanding depends on the drying of the latex paint. Temperature, humidity, sheen level, and even color all affect drying time. It is possible to do the whole process within a day if you use the right materials and paint in the right conditions.
Make sure to read the paint label before sanding or re-applying. Most latex paint is capable of having this done within 4 hours, but others may take longer. If you sand or reapply before the paint is dried, you could end up harming the paint or sanding it off accidentally.
There are good conditions that help paint dry faster. Painting in 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit is good for latex paint. Also, placing a dehumidifier or air conditions can help speed up the drying process. Also, ensure there is air movement within the room to avoid paint drying with the dust of contaminants in it.
Should I wet or dry sand latex paint?
Simply, both sanding techniques can be used on latex paint, it just depends on the goals of the painter. Dry sanding is more abrasive and removes more material. Wet sanding (sanding with the use of water as a lubricant) is better for finishing coats. Both techniques are beneficial and using one of the other depends on the painter’s goals.
Wet Sanding
Wet sanding produces a super smooth finish and should be used on the last coats of paint. Wet sanding must be done by hand so it takes longer, but compensates for this by making less mess than dry sanding. Painters should use 180-220 grit sandpaper between coats to remove brush strokes. Abrasive paper (1200 grit) should be used to create a super smooth finish.
Dry Sanding
On the other side of the spectrum, dry sanding is good for removing more material from the paint. While dry sanding takes less time and can use power tools, it makes more of a mess to clean up than wet sanding. Dry sanding uses 120-150 grit sandpaper so it has less chance of ruining applied paint. However, it does not get as smooth of a finish as the wet sanding technique. Dry sanding should be done between coats that are not final.
What tools can I use?
The recommended and available sanding tools depend on the goals of the painter. To remove extra gloss such as compound or varnish, orbital sanders may be beneficial. However, if you are looking for a sander to be used before primer or finish, a fitted sheet sander would be better.
For corners and detail sanding over the latex paint, it will be easier to use an oscillating sander. For the most part, most tools are going to be able to do the job well as long as the grit on the sandpaper is the right grade.
How much sanding is too much sanding?
A painter decides how much time and effort they want to put into sanding during a project. It can be helpful to sand the surface before applying the paint to give the latex paint something to grip.
Painters should sand between each coat of paint. This will take less time with fresh latex paint because it dries faster. But, waiting the weeks before sanding cured latex paint is important as well.
The time it takes to sand between each coat can be weeks, but it’s the best way of getting a smooth finish. It is recommended to sand before painting, between coats, and after the final coat. If sanding happens at these times within the process then a smooth finish is on its way.
Conclusion
Sanding latex paint is simpler than it sounds and is similar to the process for most other projects. Sanding techniques depend on the painter’s preference and time constraints. In general, painters should sand after the final coat to create a super smooth finish.
