What to Do If Sanding Sealer Is Still Tacky?

Sanding sealer is supposed to be sanded.

Paint Over Wet Sanding Sealer

If you cover sanding sealer before it has a chance to dry, you will lose the benefit of applying it. The lubricant it contains to make sanding easier won't serve its purpose and will mix into the finish coat, weakening the integrity of that material.

Let the Sanding Sealer Dry

Most sanding sealers are designed to dry quickly, but cold or moist conditions will make them dry more slowly. Always wait for it to dry, though, no matter how long it takes. Once it dries, sand it lightly before applying the top coat if you want the best results.

Bottom Line

According to Bob Flexner, writing in "Popular Woodworking Magazine," sanding sealers make sanding easier, but they weaken the bond of the finish coat and are not always necessary. If slow-drying sanding sealer is slowing down your work, you might be better off not using it at all.

References

• Popular Woodworking Magazine: The 7 Myths of Polyurethane
• Sydney Woodturners: Using Sanding Sealer