Yes, you should wet sand glass, especially if you aim for a smooth, even finish and want to remove imperfections left by initial dry sanding.
When working with glass, achieving a perfectly smooth and uniform surface is often the goal. While dry sanding plays a role in the initial leveling of the glass, wet sanding is the key step for refining the finish.
Why Wet Sand Glass?
Based on information available, including a reference from October 6, 2022, the benefits of wet sanding glass are significant:
- Achieves a Superior Finish: Unlike dry sanding, which primarily levels the surface, wet sanding will give you a nice and even finish. The water acts as a lubricant, reducing friction and preventing heat buildup, which is crucial when working with a sensitive material like glass.
- Removes Imperfections: The reference specifically states that dry sanding may leave you with some minor scratches and imperfections that the wet sanding process will later remove. This makes wet sanding an essential follow-up step to erase the marks left by coarser grits used during dry sanding.
Wet vs. Dry Sanding Glass
Understanding the distinct roles of each method clarifies why both might be used, with wet sanding typically being the finishing step:
| Method | Primary Function | Typical Result | Scratch Removal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Sanding | Surface Leveling | Can leave minor scratches/imperfections | No |
| Wet Sanding | Surface Refinement | Nice and even finish | Yes |
Using the correct motions and movements for each method is a good rule to remember for optimal results.
Practical Applications of Wet Sanding Glass
Wet sanding is a valuable technique in various glass-related tasks:
- Scratch Removal: Effectively buffs out minor surface scratches on windows, tabletops, or other glass items.
- Edge Smoothing: Creates smooth, safe edges on cut glass pieces.
- Preparing for Polishing: Provides the ideal smooth surface needed before using polishing compounds to achieve a crystal-clear finish.
- Repair Work: Used in windshield repair or chip filling to blend the repaired area seamlessly with the surrounding glass.
Incorporating wet sanding into your glasswork process is essential for achieving professional-quality results that are smooth, clear, and free from distracting imperfections.
