Frequently asked questions
Is sandblasting still done with sand?
Rarely by professionals. Most use crushed glass, garnet, slag, aluminum oxide, steel grit, glass bead, walnut shell, soda, or dry ice. NIOSH has recommended since 1974 that silica sand not be used as a blasting abrasive because of silicosis risk. See blasting media.
How much does sandblasting cost?
HomeGuide cites about $1–$5 per square foot or $45–$80 per hour for basic work, more for complex jobs, and about $1,500–$7,500 for a 1,500 sq ft home exterior. See the cost guide.
What's the difference between dustless and regular sandblasting?
Wet or "dustless" systems mix water into the abrasive stream to suppress dust. They're popular near homes and traffic. Bare steel can flash-rust afterward, so operators often use rust inhibitors.
Can you sandblast a house with lead paint?
Under EPA's RRP rule, paid work on pre-1978 homes can't use abrasive blasting on painted surfaces unless the equipment has a shroud or containment with HEPA vacuum collection at the point of generation. Many contractors use other methods. See lead & silica safety.
Will blasting damage my brick?
It can. Abrasive blasting can remove brick's harder outer face and erode mortar. The National Park Service recommends against abrasive cleaning of historic masonry. Ask for a test patch and consider gentler methods.
Do I need permission to blast in a historic district?
In a local historic district in Michigan, exterior work generally needs approval from the local historic district commission before it starts, under the Local Historic Districts Act. Check with your city.
Should I choose mobile or shop blasting?
Mobile for anything big or fixed (houses, decks, tanks, large equipment). Shop drop-off is often better for wheels, parts, and car bodies, because enclosed booths recover media and contain dust.
Is soda blasting good for cars?
Soda (sodium bicarbonate) is non-etching and won't warp thin panels the way aggressive media can. It doesn't create a profile for primer, and residue must be washed off before painting.
What happens to the old paint and media?
It should be collected and disposed of properly. Agree in writing on containment, daily cleanup, and disposal before work starts, especially if paint may contain lead.
How soon do I need to paint after blasting?
Bare steel begins to rust quickly in humid air, so primer usually goes on soon after blasting. Logs and wood should be dry and re-finished promptly. Follow the coating maker's instructions.
Are you the blasting company?
No. We're a free referral service. We pass your request to an independent company that contacts you directly and quotes the job. You decide whether to hire anyone.
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