What is Wet Sanding?

Wet sanding in progress

What is it?

Wet sanding is a technique used in paint correction to remove imperfections such as scratches, swirl marks, and oxidation from the surface of a vehicle's paint. It involves sanding the surface of the paint with progressively finer grit sandpaper while lubricating the surface with water to minimize damage. The process is called "wet" sanding because water is used to lubricate the sandpaper and reduce friction. The goal is to restore the paint to a smooth and glossy finish, improving the overall appearance of the vehicle.

Sandpaper Grit Used in Wet Sanding

One of the most important aspects of wet sanding is choosing the right sandpaper grit. The grit size determines the coarseness of the sandpaper, and it is important to start with a coarse grit to remove major imperfections, and then move on to finer grits to achieve a smooth finish. The commonly used grits for wet sanding are between 800 and 3000 grit. It is important to wet sand the surface thoroughly between each grit change, to ensure that the surface is free from any residue or particles.

Another important aspect of wet sanding is the technique used. It is important to sand the surface in a controlled and consistent manner, using even pressure and sanding in straight lines. Sanding in circular motions can cause uneven sanding, resulting in a rough and inconsistent finish. To achieve optimal results, it is recommended to sand the surface in one direction and then in the opposite direction to ensure that the surface is sanded evenly.

It is also important to use the right tools and equipment when wet sanding. A bucket of clean water and a squeegee or sponge should be used to wet the surface and clean off any residue. A good quality sandpaper is also important, as it should be flexible and durable to prevent tearing during the sanding process. An air-powered or electric sander can also be used for wet sanding, but it is important to use a low speed setting to prevent causing damage to the surface.

Lastly, safety should be considered when wet sanding. It is important to wear protective gloves and eye protection to avoid any skin or eye irritation from the sanding process. It is also important to work in a well-ventilated area to prevent inhaling any dust or particles.

In conclusion, the best wet sanding methods include using the right sandpaper grit, sanding technique, tools and equipment, and safety measures. By following these guidelines, it is possible to achieve optimal results in paint correction, restoring the surface of a vehicle to a smooth and glossy finish.

Do I Have To Compound After Wet Sanding Paint?

Compounding after wet sanding is an important step in the paint correction process. Wet sanding removes imperfections from the surface of the paint, but it can also leave the surface dull and hazy. Compounding is a process that uses a rotary buffer or polisher and a specially formulated compound to remove the dull and hazy appearance and restore the shine to the paint.

Compounding works by using abrasive particles in the compound to remove a thin layer of the clear coat, which is the top protective layer on the paint. The abrasive particles polish and smooth the surface, removing any hazy or dull appearance that was left after the wet sanding process. Compounding also helps to restore the gloss and shine to the paint, creating a more uniform and consistent appearance.

Additionally, compounding can also help to remove any residual imperfections that may have been missed during the wet sanding process. The abrasive particles in the compound can remove any remaining scratches, oxidation, or swirl marks, leaving the surface of the paint looking smooth and flawless.