FREE C33 Surface Preparation for Various Substrates Questions and Answers

Question 1

What is the most critical first step when preparing a previously painted exterior wood surface that exhibits extensive peeling and flaking?

Accepted Answer

Scrape, sand, and feather all loose and peeling paint to a sound substrate.

Answer

Apply a thick coat of oil-based primer to seal the peeling edges.

Answer

Power wash the entire surface at high pressure to remove dirt.

Answer

Wipe the surface down with a solvent like mineral spirits.

Question 2

What is the primary reason for cleaning new galvanized metal with a solvent or specialized cleaner before priming?

Accepted Answer

To remove the oily factory film that hinders adhesion.

Answer

To create a rougher surface profile for the primer.

Answer

To activate the zinc coating for better rust prevention.

Answer

To remove any existing rust from the surface.

Question 3

How should efflorescence, a white, powdery deposit on a masonry wall, be treated before painting?

Accepted Answer

Remove with a wire brush and wash with a specialized cleaner or dilute acid, then rinse thoroughly.

Answer

Seal it directly with a waterproof sealer.

Answer

Scrub it with soap and water and paint immediately.

Answer

Sand the surface smooth with an orbital sander.

Question 4

What is the standard preparation sequence for new, un-textured drywall after taping and joint compound are fully cured?

Accepted Answer

Sand smooth, remove all dust, and apply a PVA or drywall primer/sealer.

Answer

Apply two coats of finish paint directly over the joint compound.

Answer

Wipe with a damp cloth and apply an oil-based primer.

Answer

Texture the wall, prime with an epoxy sealer, then paint.

Question 5

Before painting new, unpainted exterior wood, its moisture content should ideally be below what percentage?

Accepted Answer

15%

Answer

25%

Answer

30%

Answer

20%

Question 6

Which SSPC standard for surface preparation of steel involves abrasive blast cleaning to remove all visible oil, grease, dirt, rust, and paint, but allows for slight stains to remain?

Accepted Answer

SSPC-SP 6 (Commercial Blast Cleaning)

Answer

SSPC-SP 1 (Solvent Cleaning)

Answer

SSPC-SP 3 (Power Tool Cleaning)

Answer

SSPC-SP 10 (Near-White Blast Cleaning)