Advanced Surface Preparation

Surface preparation is critical because: 1. **It determines coating adhesion** - Proper preparation creates an anchor profile for mechanical bonding 2. **It removes contaminants** - Oils, grease, and salts that would prevent coating adhesion 3. **It eliminates existing corrosion** - Removing rust and oxidation before coating application 4. **It ensures uniform application** - Creating a consistent surface for even coating thickness 5. **It extends service life** - Industry studies show proper preparation can double coating lifespan 6. **It prevents premature failure** - Most coating failures trace back to inadequate preparation Industry experts estimate that surface preparation accounts for approximately 80% of a coating system's success, making it the most critical factor in long-term performance.

We adhere to established industry standards including: 1. **SSPC-SP1** - Solvent Cleaning for removing oils and grease 2. **SSPC-SP2** - Hand Tool Cleaning for loose mill scale and paint 3. **SSPC-SP3** - Power Tool Cleaning for more efficient removal 4. **SSPC-SP5** - White Metal Blast Cleaning for critical applications 5. **SSPC-SP6** - Commercial Blast Cleaning for general industrial use 6. **SSPC-SP7** - Brush-Off Blast for light contamination 7. **SSPC-SP10** - Near-White Blast for severe environments 8. **SSPC-SP11** - Power Tool Cleaning to Bare Metal Each standard is selected based on the coating system requirements, environmental exposure conditions, and expected service life of the coating system.

We determine the appropriate preparation level through a comprehensive assessment: 1. **Coating system requirements** - Following manufacturer specifications 2. **Environmental exposure** - Considering moisture, chemicals, temperature 3. **Existing surface conditions** - Evaluating current contamination levels 4. **Substrate material** - Different approaches for steel, concrete, aluminum 5. **Service life expectations** - Balancing preparation costs with longevity 6. **Accessibility limitations** - Adapting methods for confined spaces Our technicians conduct surface profile measurements, adhesion testing, and moisture content analysis to determine the optimal preparation approach for your specific requirements.

For concrete surfaces, we employ several specialized methods: 1. **Diamond grinding** - For smooth, precise surfaces 2. **Shot blasting** - For aggressive profile creation 3. **Scarification** - For removing thick coatings and laitance 4. **Chemical cleaning** - For oil and contaminant removal 5. **Acid etching** - For creating proper profile in certain applications 6. **Moisture testing** - To ensure substrate readiness for coating The specific method depends on the concrete condition, coating requirements, and environmental factors. We follow ICRI (International Concrete Repair Institute) guidelines for concrete surface profile (CSP) standards to achieve the proper texture for coating adhesion.