The core question addressed is whether a new coat of paint can be successfully applied to a surface previously finished with a satin sheen without undertaking the preparatory step of abrading the existing surface. Satin paints, known for their slight sheen, can present adhesion challenges if a new coating is applied directly. A representative scenario involves repainting a living room wall that was originally coated with satin paint. The central concern revolves around achieving a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish without the time and effort associated with sanding.
Successfully skipping surface abrasion offers several advantages. It reduces the overall project time, minimizes dust generation, and simplifies the painting process. Historically, sanding was considered an almost universal prerequisite for painting over any pre-existing finish, especially those with a degree of gloss. However, advancements in paint technology and surface preparation products have introduced alternative methods that challenge this conventional wisdom, creating potential for streamlined approaches.
