The Foundation of Every Great Coating
You can use the best coating material in the world, but if the surface isn’t properly prepared, it will fail. At Lochmondy’s, we spend as much time on preparation as application—because we know it makes all the difference.
Why Preparation Matters
Adhesion is Everything
Coatings bond to surfaces at a molecular level. For this bond to form properly, the surface must be:
- Clean of all contaminants
- Free of old coatings or loose material
- Profiled to accept the new coating
- At the proper temperature and humidity
Common Preparation Failures
When coatings fail, it’s usually traced back to preparation issues:
- Peeling from oil or grease contamination
- Bubbling from moisture trapped underneath
- Flaking from poor surface profile
- Delamination from incompatible existing coatings
Our Preparation Process
Step 1: Assessment
Before any work begins, we evaluate:
- Current surface condition
- Type of material (steel, aluminum, concrete, wood)
- Existing coatings that may need removal
- Environmental conditions
- Special requirements for the application
Step 2: Cleaning
We remove all contaminants using appropriate methods:
- Degreasing for oil and grease
- Pressure washing for dirt and debris
- Chemical cleaning for specific contaminants
- Solvent wiping for final preparation
Step 3: Surface Profiling
Creating the right surface texture ensures mechanical adhesion:
- Sandblasting for heavy rust or old coatings
- Grinding for concrete surfaces
- Sanding for lighter preparation needs
- Acid etching in specific situations
Step 4: Repair
Any surface damage is addressed:
- Welding holes or weak spots in metal
- Filling cracks in concrete
- Replacing rotted sections of wood
- Fairing uneven areas
Step 5: Final Inspection
Before applying primer or coating:
- Surface profile is measured
- Cleanliness is verified
- Temperature and humidity are checked
- Any remaining issues are addressed
The Professional Advantage
DIY coating projects often fail because proper preparation requires:
- Professional equipment (blast pots, grinders, etc.)
- Knowledge of proper techniques for each material
- Understanding of coating compatibility
- Quality primers and preparation materials
- Time and patience to do it right
At Lochmondy’s, our preparation process is refined through years of experience and thousands of successful projects.
Investing in Longevity
Proper preparation adds time and cost to a coating project, but the return is enormous:
- Coatings last years longer
- Fewer callbacks and repairs
- Better appearance
- Complete peace of mind
Questions About Your Project?
If you’re considering a coating project, we’re happy to discuss the preparation requirements for your specific situation. Contact us for a free consultation!