What is the first step after cleaning the surface to be refinished?

After cleaning the surface to be refinished, the next logical step is to prepare the surface for the application of any coatings, which includes hand sanding the surface. This process is crucial because hand sanding helps to create a texture that promotes proper adhesion of the new paint or finish. It removes any imperfections, such as previous coatings, oxidation, or debris that might interfere with the finishing process.

Properly sanding the surface also ensures that any irregularities are smoothed out, which can lead to a better overall finish once the new coatings are applied. Following this step, other actions such as applying primer, masking the area, or inspecting for damage can be carried out, but they all depend on the surface being adequately prepared through sanding first. This foundational step sets the stage for a successful refinishing job.