Is this okay?

[GLewis]

I was installing a Hyper 212 Evo on my 4690k.  This was my first build ever.  I applied the thermal paste and placed the heatsink on top.  Halfway through tightening the screws, I realized (with frustration) that I hadn't removed the plastic cover!  Feeling stupid, I took off the heatsink and peeled off the cover.  

 

The CPU still had the thermal compound on it, but some had come off with the heatsink.  I added a tiny bit more to the CPU to make up for the amount that came off and installed the Evo normally.  

 

I was worried after this because I later realized that what I had done was similar to the "business card method" where the compound is already spread.  I heard that that creates air bubbles and the CPU may overheat.  

 

I haven't finished building yet, so I don't know what the temps will be like, but could that be bad for the CPU, as in adding the heatsink to a pre-flattened dab of thermal paste?  Should I clean the CPU and re-apply it?

 

I'm using the paste that came with the heatsink, if it matters.

 

Thanks!

[Nup]

I wouldnt be too worried  

 

If your feeling like it stresses you out too much, then quickly wipe it down and reapply, if not, mount it and see what the temps are for idle in the bios, you'll then know whether or not you do need a remunt or not

[Viper9]

You should clean it with alcool and a coffee filter (the be sure there's no lith on the CPU). And reapply the termal paste, but just a pea size in the middle of the CPU. 

[blackadder]

I was installing a Hyper 212 Evo on my 4690k.  This was my first build ever.  I applied the thermal paste and placed the heatsink on top.  Halfway through tightening the screws, I realized (with frustration) that I hadn't removed the plastic cover!  Feeling stupid, I took off the heatsink and peeled off the cover.  

 

The CPU still had the thermal compound on it, but some had come off with the heatsink.  I added a tiny bit more to the CPU to make up for the amount that came off and installed the Evo normally.  

 

I was worried after this because I later realized that what I had done was similar to the "business card method" where the compound is already spread.  I heard that that creates air bubbles and the CPU may overheat.  

 

I haven't finished building yet, so I don't know what the temps will be like, but could that be bad for the CPU, as in adding the heatsink to a pre-flattened dab of thermal paste?  Should I clean the CPU and re-apply it?

 

I'm using the paste that came with the heatsink, if it matters.

 

Thanks!

if its really bad it will shut itself off, can you reapply it, use 99% rubbing alcohol to clean off the paste. 

[gt403cyl]

If it was me, I would just go ahead and start over if you have enough paste.

 

It would suck to get it all together and have to do it then.

Do it now and be done with it.

[beach_boy98]

if its really bad it will shut itself off, can you reapply it, use 99% rubbing alcohol to clean off the paste. 

Would do the same.

[WoodenMarker]

The mounting pressure should remove any issues with air bubbles.

[vembutech]

if its really bad it will shut itself off, can you reapply it, use 99% rubbing alcohol to clean off the paste. 

No need to worry about this case.