Abstract: A composition comprising bifluoride salts in a somewhat viscous form for roughening glass, ceramic and porcelain surfaces in preparation for refinishing includes: a. bifluoride salts in an amount ranging from 10.0 to 85.0 parts by weight; b. thickener in an amount ranging from 0.1 to 5.0 parts by weight; c. organic solvent in an amount ranging from 2.0 to 20.0 parts by weight; and d. water in an amount ranging from 7.0 to 75.0 parts by weight. A coating of the composition is applied to a substrate, such as those having low surface tensions and to which paint adhesion is difficult. The coating is left in contact with the substrate for a period of time effective to roughen the substrate. The coating is then removed and discarded or alternatively, collected and reused. The substrate after treatment will have a roughened surface from which improved paint adhesion results.