How do I prepare surfaces for coating or application of additional layers?

To prepare surfaces for coating, follow the steps below:

1. Abrade the surface with 220 grit sandpaper to create a textured surface for the epoxy to adhere to. Rougher surfaces, such as wood slabs or MDF, do not require abrasion. In general, shiny surfaces should be abraded.
2. Surfaces should be cleaned to remove any loose debris from sanding or residual contaminants such as grease, oil, wax or mold releases that will prevent bonding.
3. Surfaces must be dry for good adhesion. Moisture on the surface will result in the formation of blush and prevent adequate bonding.

Porous surfaces may require a seal coat. Seal coats help prevent air and moisture from migrating out of substrate materials, which can cause bubbles in subsequent coatings or additional layers. If the seal coat cures shiny, it should be abraded and cleaned before recoating.