What You’ll Need

• Strong Technical Degreaser for Resin Projects – 100% Natural Formula: For removing all traces of grease, silicone and contaminants.
• “Ebonite Abralon” – Sanding Pads 360-4000 Grit for Resin and Wood: For sanding and smoothing the substrate to improve adhesion.
• “Epoxyprimer” – Universal Water-Based Two-Component Epoxy Floor Primer: For priming floors and tiles where extra bond strength is required.
• “EpoxyWood” – Wood Restoration Epoxy Resin for Deep Penetration and Waterproofing: For restoring, sealing, and protecting wood prior to resin coating.
• Clean, lint-free cloths
• Protective gloves and mask (for sanding and chemical work)
• Vacuum cleaner or dust brush

The Importance of Proper Surface Preparation

Surface prep is the most important factor in preventing resin peeling. Skipping cleaning or sanding can jeopardise your entire project. Take your time: meticulous preparation leads to superior results, both visually and functionally.

Step 1: Clean the Surface Thoroughly

Thoroughly clean the surface before beginning. Any oil, dust, dirt, or residues can prevent resin from adhering and cause peeling. Use a vacuum, dry brush, or cloth to remove loose particles.

For a truly effective clean, Strong Technical Degreaser for Resin Projects – 100% Natural Formula is ideal. It removes stubborn grease, silicone, and wax on various materials without using harsh chemicals. Ensure the surface is dry before continuing.

Step 2: Degrease and Remove All Contaminants

Remove all existing grease, wax, or silicone—even invisible contaminants can drastically reduce the adhesion of resin, leading to future peeling.

Apply your chosen degreaser with a lint-free cloth, working in small sections to ensure all residues are lifted from the surface. Repeat if necessary, especially on areas exposed to previous coatings or handling.

Step 3: Sand to Promote Resin Bonding

Sand lightly to improve resin bonding. A smooth but slightly abraded substrate provides ‘tooth’ for your resin, allowing it to grip securely. Start with medium-grit paper or pads, and finish with a finer grit for best results.

The “Ebonite Abralon” – Sanding Pads 360-4000 Grit for Resin and Wood are perfectly suited for this task, helping create a consistent finish and avoiding over-sanding. Wipe away all dust with a clean cloth or vacuum before moving to the next step.

Step 4: Prime or Seal Difficult Substrates

Prime for optimal adhesion on difficult substrates like concrete, tiles, or highly absorbent materials. A high-quality primer bridges pores and smooths uneven surfaces, enabling an even resin layer and stronger bond.

If your project involves floors or non-porous tiles, the “Epoxyprimer” – Universal Water-Based Two-Component Epoxy Floor Primer maximises resin grip for long-lasting durability. For wood restoration, consider the “EpoxyWood” – Wood Restoration Epoxy Resin for Deep Penetration and Waterproofing to seal fibres and protect against moisture.

Step 5: Check and Prepare for Resin Application

Ensure surfaces are completely dry before applying resin. Any remaining damp, dust or dirt can compromise adhesion. Tape off any sensitive areas, ensure good ventilation, and only mix and pour your resin once you’re confident the surface is fully prepared.

Apply resin in accordance with your chosen system’s instructions, observing recommended thickness and curing times for the best possible finish.

Tips and Common Mistakes: Troubleshooting Peeling Issues

Be patient with drying and curing at each stage—rushing can ruin adhesion. Avoid touching prepped surfaces with bare hands, as skin oils are enough to cause peeling. Always read your product’s data sheet to ensure compatibility, and perform a small test if you’re working with an unfamiliar substrate. If you spot signs of poor adhesion while the resin is uncured, remove and start again to prevent long-term problems.

Why Primers Reduce Resin Delamination

Using the correct primer locks resin in place, especially on difficult substrates. Priming ensures a strong bond, covering microscopic flaws and preventing blistering or detachment that appears weeks later.