Surface preparation is the process of prepping a metal for the application of a variety of coatings, ranging from powder sprays to thermal sprays to paints. Surface preparation is an essential part in preparing a metal for finishing because the performance of the final coating is intrinsically dependent on how well the surface was prepared.

Surface preparation commonly uses an abrasive, such as aluminum oxide, that is blasted through a wet or dry pressure-blasting system. This process removes contaminants and unwanted substances from the metal's exterior in order to produce a clean surface that will promote adhesion to the final coating.