If you want your epoxy floor coating to last and look flawless, one thing matters more than almost anything else—surface preparation. And when it comes to surface prep, choosing the right grit is critical.
Whether you’re sealing a garage, commercial space, or showroom floor, using the wrong grit can lead to peeling, bubbles, and early wear. In this article, we’ll guide you through the correct grit to use for your epoxy seal coat and why it matters. Here is another blog What Grit for Seal Coat Epoxy?
What Is Grit in Epoxy Surface Prep?
Grit refers to the level of abrasiveness used to profile a surface. It's measured in numbers:
- Low grit (16–40) = Very rough surface
- Medium grit (60–80) = Ideal for most epoxy seal coats
- High grit (100–120) = Smoother finish, used for decorative epoxy
The right grit ensures the epoxy coating properly bonds to the concrete surface, which is essential for long-term durability.
Why Grit Matters for Epoxy Seal Coating
When you apply an epoxy seal coat to a surface that’s too smooth or too dirty, the epoxy has nothing to grip onto. That leads to:
- Poor adhesion
- Blistering or chipping
- Premature coating failure
On the other hand, when the surface is correctly prepped with the right grit, the epoxy seeps into the microscopic texture and cures securely—resulting in a strong, professional finish.
Best Grit Levels for Epoxy Seal Coats
✔️ For Bare Concrete Floors
Use 60–80 grit sanding or grinding
This medium level of abrasion creates a perfect profile for the epoxy to bond, especially if the concrete is new or unsealed.
✔️ For Previously Coated Floors
Use 80–100 grit
If the floor already has an old coating or sealer, a finer grit is best to lightly scuff the surface without removing too much material.
✔️ For Industrial or Damaged Concrete
Use 16–40 grit
Coarser grit is ideal for old, oil-stained, or damaged concrete. It helps remove contaminants and creates a strong anchor profile.
✔️ For Decorative or Metallic Epoxy
Use 100–120 grit
When applying metallic or decorative epoxy, the goal is a smooth finish. A high grit ensures the surface is ready without visible scratches.
Tools to Apply the Right Grit
Depending on your project size and condition, you can use different tools to achieve the correct grit:
- Diamond grinders (for large spaces)
- Orbital sanders (for small to medium areas)
- Shot blasters (for aggressive removal)
- Hand sanding (for edges and corners)
Always follow up with vacuuming or sweeping to remove dust and debris before applying epoxy.
Pro Tip: Test Before You Coat
Before coating the entire area, it’s a smart idea to do a test patch. This ensures your surface profile is right and that the epoxy adheres properly.
Trust the Experts for Epoxy Perfection
If you're unsure which grit or tools to use, don’t guess. At Epoxy Master Installation, we specialize in epoxy flooring systems that are built to last. Our team ensures every project starts with proper surface prep—including selecting the perfect grit level for seal coat applications.
From residential garages to commercial spaces, we deliver professional-grade epoxy installations with long-lasting results.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the correct grit for seal coat epoxy isn't just a technical detail—it’s the foundation for a flawless finish. Most residential and commercial floors do well with 60–80 grit, but always consider the floor's current condition and what type of epoxy you're using.
Looking for expert epoxy installation?
???? Contact Epoxy Master Installation today and get a free consultation.