Professional Surface Preparation Services

We employ multiple surface preparation methods including abrasive blasting (sandblasting, steel grit blasting, garnet blasting), power tool cleaning (grinding, sanding, needle scaling), hand tool cleaning, chemical stripping, high-pressure water jetting (up to 40,000 PSI), and specialized mechanical preparation. Method selection depends on substrate type, existing coating condition, contamination levels, required surface profile, coating manufacturer specifications, and environmental considerations. We're certified in all SSPC/NACE standards from SP-1 through SP-16.

We're certified in all SSPC (Society for Protective Coatings) and NACE International standards: SP-1 (Solvent Cleaning), SP-2 (Hand Tool Cleaning), SP-3 (Power Tool Cleaning), SP-5/NACE 1 (White Metal Blast), SP-6/NACE 3 (Commercial Blast), SP-7 (Brush-Off Blast), SP-10/NACE 2 (Near-White Metal Blast), SP-11 (Power Tool to Bare Metal), SP-13/NACE 6 (Surface Preparation of Concrete), SP-14 (Industrial Blast Cleaning), SP-15 (Commercial Grade Power Tool Cleaning), and SP-16 (Brush-Off Blast of Coated Steel). We select the appropriate standard based on coating manufacturer requirements and service environment.

Surface preparation level is determined through multiple factors: coating manufacturer specifications (primary driver), service environment severity (immersion, chemical exposure, atmospheric), substrate type and condition, existing coating system integrity, performance requirements, and warranty considerations. We consult coating data sheets, contact manufacturer technical support when needed, and follow industry guides like SSPC-PA Guide 4. For critical applications, we develop detailed surface preparation specifications with measurable acceptance criteria.

Surface profile requirements vary by coating type and manufacturer: thin-film primers typically need 1.0-2.0 mils, standard industrial coatings require 1.5-2.5 mils, high-build epoxies need 2.0-3.5 mils, zinc-rich primers require 2.0-4.0 mils, and heavy-duty polyureas may need 3.0-5.0 mils. We always verify requirements in coating data sheets and create anchor patterns using appropriate methods—abrasive blasting achieves the most consistent profiles. We verify using replica tape, profilometers, or surface comparators and document all measurements.

Yes, we specialize in preparing surfaces with existing coating systems. Our process includes: adhesion testing of existing coatings (per ASTM D4541 or D3359), compatibility assessment with new coating systems, determination of whether full removal, partial removal, or feathering is required, identification of hazardous materials (lead, chromates), and selection of appropriate removal methods. We can remove multiple coating layers, spot-repair failing areas, or prepare sound existing coatings for overcoating depending on assessment results and project requirements.

Lead-based paint removal requires EPA RRP certification, specialized containment, worker medical monitoring, and proper waste disposal. We follow OSHA Lead in Construction Standard (29 CFR 1926.62) and HUD guidelines. Our protocol includes: XRF testing to confirm lead presence, full negative-pressure containment, HEPA-filtered dust collection, worker blood lead monitoring, air monitoring during work, proper characterization and manifesting of waste, and documentation for regulatory compliance. All lead waste is transported to licensed disposal facilities with complete chain-of-custody documentation.

We provide comprehensive documentation packages including: pre-preparation surface condition reports with photographs, contamination test results (soluble salt testing per SSPC Guide 15), surface profile measurements (multiple locations documented), visual cleanliness verification per SSPC-VIS standards, environmental condition records (temperature, humidity, dew point), adhesion test results when specified, quality control inspection reports, and coating manufacturer spec compliance letters. This documentation ensures warranty coverage, regulatory compliance, and provides permanent records for asset management.

We test for multiple contaminants using industry-standard methods: soluble salt contamination using the Bresle method per ISO 8502-6 (measures chlorides, sulfates, nitrates), oil and grease using water break test or UV light inspection, pH testing for acid/alkali contamination, dust particle assessment per ISO 8502-3, and rust bloom assessment. Results are compared against coating manufacturer maximum allowable levels. For critical applications, we may use ion chromatography for precise salt analysis. All testing is documented with calibration records.

Surface preparation requires monitoring of: surface temperature (minimum 5°F above dew point to prevent condensation), relative humidity (typically <85% for most coatings), ambient temperature (usually 40-100°F, varies by coating), and wind conditions for outdoor blasting. We continuously monitor conditions using calibrated instruments and halt work when conditions exceed limits. Prepared surfaces must receive primer before conditions change—flash rusting can occur within hours on clean steel. We coordinate with coating crews to ensure immediate primer application.

Flash rust prevention is critical for successful coating application. Our strategies include: immediate primer application (same day, within 4-8 hours maximum), environmental monitoring to maintain steel temperature above dew point, use of dehumidification equipment in enclosed spaces, application of rust inhibitors when immediate coating isn't possible, covering prepared surfaces during breaks, and coordinating closely with coating crews for primer application timing. We only prepare areas that can be primed the same day to prevent flash rust formation.

Yes, we prepare concrete surfaces following SSPC-SP13/NACE 6 and ICRI guidelines. Methods include: shot blasting for profile creation (CSP 3-5 typically), diamond grinding for smooth finishes or CSP 1-2, scarifying for aggressive profile or coating removal, high-pressure water jetting for contamination removal, and acid etching (though we prefer mechanical methods). We test for moisture content (calcium chloride or RH probe methods), surface soundness (hammer testing), and pH levels. Concrete preparation is critical for flooring systems—we ensure proper moisture vapor transmission rates before coating.

Wallcovering demands superior surface preparation because imperfections telegraph through vinyl and textile materials. Requirements include: smooth finish patching (Level 5 finish for critical applications), skim coating over textured surfaces, sanding to remove nibs and imperfections, moisture testing (critical for vinyl), mold remediation if present, and application of appropriate primers (sizing or acrylic based on wallcovering type). We perform mock-up tests on critical installations to verify surface preparation adequacy before full production. Learn more about our <a href='/services/wallcovering-installation/' class='text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-800 underline'>wallcovering installation services</a>.

Surface preparation costs vary significantly based on: preparation standard required (SP-5 white metal costs more than SP-6 commercial blast), existing surface condition (heavy rust costs more than light mill scale), accessibility (elevated work, confined spaces add cost), containment requirements (lead paint, environmental sensitivity), substrate type (steel vs. concrete vs. specialty materials), and project size (mobilization costs spread over larger areas). Typical ranges: SP-6 commercial blast $1.75-3.00/sq ft, SP-10 near-white $2.50-4.00/sq ft, SP-5 white metal $3.50-5.00/sq ft. We provide detailed estimates after site inspection.

Professional surface preparation contractors should hold: SSPC-QP1 (Certified Shop) or QP2 (Certified Field) for quality systems, NACE/AMPP coating inspector certifications (CIP Level 2+), EPA RRP certification for lead paint work, OSHA 10/30 hour training for general safety, state-specific contractor licensing, and manufacturer certifications for specialty coatings. Our crews maintain all required certifications and complete ongoing training in new preparation methods, environmental compliance, and safety requirements. We can provide certification verification upon request.

Project timelines depend on preparation standard, surface condition, and accessibility. Typical production rates: abrasive blasting to SP-10 at 100-250 sq ft/hour, power tool cleaning at 50-150 sq ft/hour, concrete shot blasting at 200-400 sq ft/hour. A 10,000 sq ft structural steel project typically requires 5-10 days including setup, preparation, and documentation. Factors affecting timeline include: rust grade severity, number of coating layers to remove, containment requirements, and weather conditions for outdoor work. We provide detailed schedules during project planning.