What is masking?

• A. Covering areas not to be painted
• B. Sanding paint edges for a smooth transition
• C. Applying primer
• D. Sealing the surface

Answer: (A)

Masking means covering surfaces that should not be painted with tape, paper, or film to protect them from overspray and keep sharp paint lines. It’s used to shield glass, trim, moldings, weatherstripping, and adjacent panels while you apply color, so you don’t accidentally coat areas you want to remain untouched.

This step is done before painting and relies on selecting the right masking materials and applying them carefully along the intended edge, then burnishing to prevent paint from sneaking under. After the paint has flashed, the masking is removed to reveal clean, defined borders.

Sanding paint edges for a smooth transition, applying primer, and sealing the surface are different tasks in the process. Sanding edges is a blending or feathering step; applying primer prepares the surface for paint, and sealing the surface protects or blocks porosity. None of these involve covering areas to prevent paint from reaching them, which is what masking accomplishes.