What can hiding dirt behind moldings during refinishing lead to?

Hiding dirt behind moldings during the refinishing process can lead to surface imperfections like fish eyes. This occurs because the dirt can disrupt the uniform application of the paint, preventing it from adhering properly to the surface. When paint is applied over contaminated areas, it may not flow evenly, leading to defects that manifest as dimples or pits, commonly referred to as fish eyes. These defects compromise the overall finish and aesthetic of the refinished area. Using appropriate cleaning methods before painting is essential to ensure a smooth, flawless finish without these problematic imperfections.