Yeah, damp sanding can be tricky like that... I've been there too. One thing that helps me is using a bright work light set at an angle—makes those sneaky bumps pop out a bit more clearly. Still, even with the occasional surprise after priming, I'd take fewer dust clouds any day. Easier on the lungs and the cleanup!
I've had mixed luck with damp sanding too, but your angled light trick sounds promising—I'll have to give that a shot next time. Honestly, even pros get those sneaky bumps sometimes, so don't sweat it too much... you're definitely on the right track.
"Honestly, even pros get those sneaky bumps sometimes, so don't sweat it too much..."
Haha, true enough... drywall joints can humble anyone. I'm curious though—has anyone tried one of those sanding sponges made from recycled materials? Picked one up recently, seemed eco-friendly, but I'm wondering if they're actually effective or just a gimmick. Wouldn't mind avoiding the dust storm next time around...
Picked one up recently, seemed eco-friendly, but I'm wondering if they're actually effective or just a gimmick. Wouldn't mind avoiding the dust storm next time around...
Haha, drywall sanding really is the great equalizer... Been there myself more times than I'd like to admit. I've actually given those recycled sanding sponges a shot recently—figured I'd do my bit for the planet while battling drywall dust. Surprisingly effective, honestly. They're pretty comparable to standard sponges in terms of grit and durability, plus I noticed they seem to create slightly less airborne dust (or maybe that's wishful thinking?). Either way, they're definitely not just a marketing gimmick.
One tip though: I found they tend to clog up a bit quicker if you're working on a larger area, so keep a stiff brush or something handy to clear them out periodically. Still beats choking on drywall dust clouds, IMO.
Totally agree about the recycled sanding sponges—they're surprisingly decent. I used one recently on a client's reno and noticed the dust seemed a bit less intense too, so maybe it's not just wishful thinking! Another thing that's helped me is using a drywall vacuum sander attachment. It's not perfect, but it seriously cuts down on airborne dust. Between that and the eco-sponges, sanding feels way less like punishment these days...
