Which of the following is a type of sealing product used to prepare wood surfaces?

• A. Water-based paint
• B. Latex primer
• C. Sanding sealer
• D. Polyurethane topcoat

Answer: (C)

Preparing wood for a finish begins with sealing the surface so pores are closed and the grain doesn’t lift during sanding. Sanding sealer is designed for this exact prep step. It sits on the wood, seals the pores, helps fill grain, and creates a smooth, evenly sandable surface that the subsequent coats can adhere to consistently. That’s why it’s the best choice for preparing wood surfaces. Water-based paint is a final finish, not a prep sealer. A latex primer is a general primer mainly used on walls and doesn’t provide the same pore-filling, sanding-friendly surface as a sanding sealer. A polyurethane topcoat is a final protective finish, not a prep product.