Sandblasting 101: Everything You Need to Know

Jan 23, 2019

If you need quality surface cleaning of your property for whatever reason be it for cleaning or preparation for painting, sandblasting is exactly what you need to get it done. Advanced Prep Coat, Inc. seeks to give you more insight into sandblasting so that you know exactly how it works.

What is Sandblasting?

Sandblasting, also known as abrasive blasting, is an advanced surface preparation technique in New England that professionals use to clean up surfaces and any foreign materials. Apart from cleaning purposes, it is also used in the removal of old paint, and preparing the surface before applying a fresh coat of paint.

What Kind of Materials Are Fit for Sandblasting?

Abrasive blasting surface preparation in New England can be done on a variety of materials. The following is a list of some of the common materials that utilize sandblasting.

Concrete-there are several concrete fixtures that can be sandblasted to bring out the desired outcome. For instance, sometimes, commercial constructors may want to do away with parking lines and create room for a parking lot or even a driveway. Sandblasting is the most appropriate technique to achieve this.
Cast Iron-with time, the paint on cast iron railing materials is bound to chip and peel off. To prevent this from happening, surface preparation companies in New England use the sandblasting technique. This goes a long way in ensuring your investment is duly protected.
Wood- just as cast iron, the painting on wooden surfaces also peels off with time. Sandblasting gives wooden surfaces a proper finishing, thus helping preserve their luster.
Bricks- sandblasting your bricks will go a long way in preserving them as they will look as good as new for a long time.

The Process of Sandblasting

As mentioned earlier, sandblasting is one of the most effective surface preparation technique in New England. It is used to get rid of dirt from surfaces. Sandblasting takes place following the following steps:

The first step is to identify the type of material that you are cleaning. This will help you determine the kind of equipment needed for the job such as an air nozzle, a hopper, or a sandblasting gun.
The next step is to prepare the surrounding area. Cover all remove anything that does not need sandblasting. This way, you will ensure nothing is damaged during the process.
The final stage is your surface preparation company in New England getting to work and cleaning the areas required.

The Pros of Sandblasting

The following are the major benefits of sandblasting:

Apart from simply cleaning surfaces, sandblasting is also used in the removal of paint from the surface. This is helpful in cases when you do not want to repaint the surface in question.
The sandblasting technique is also used in metal profiling so that the surface can maintain its luster.

Cons

Sandblasting has its disadvantages too, and it is good to weigh both the cons and pros before making any decisions.

The blasted material can be damaged if proper care is not taken after the sandblasting.
Sandblasting propels highly abrasive materials which generate static electricity and heat. If not properly controlled, fire can break out.

Blasting surface preparation in New England is a pressure driven process; only professionals should do it. A professional will do it faster and more efficiently, ensuring the surface is clean even after completion. To get sandblasting services or to learn more, contact Advanced Prep Coat, Inc.