What is Sandblasting?

Sandblasting uses abrasives and forced air to permanently transfer images, designs and words onto glass, stone, granite, marble, brick, wood and metal. These materials, called 'substrates,' are covered in a vinyl or rubber resist before sandblasting begins. Using a graphic design program, resists are cut with the image to be sandblasted. Resists both protect the substrate and guide the sandblaster in their work. The combination of abrasive size, resist thickness and air pressure are all important to the final outcome. These three elements are constantly evaluated and adjusted by the sandblaster throughout the sandblasting process. The same image can look very different depending on the substrate and the sandblasting technique used. To learn more about techniques and effects, visit our glossary.  more

*Sandblasting is typically used to expose the fine sands in the surface of the concrete. In some instances, it's used to remove existing sealers, paints and drywall from exterior slabs. The popularity of sandblasting is growing because it leaves new concrete with a timeworn effect resembling the surface of a "sugarcube." It also mellows out brighter colors by exposing various gray sands and evens out blotchy slabs which can happen with colored concrete. It's an aged concrete effect that's being demanded by many consumers.  more

Sandblasting is a term for the process of smoothing and cleaning a hard surface by forcing solid particles (sand, silica) across the surface at high speeds; much like using sandpaper, but provides a more even finish with no problems at corners or crannies.  more

A relatively new method of cleaning newly built masonry is dry sandblast cleaning and one really needs to learn how to sandblast in order to learn all its intricacies and uses. Sandblast cleaning is used and in fact, preferred by architects as well as engineers who typically use it instead of conventional cleaning due to the fact that it does not have adverse effects, like acid reaction. However, there are also still those, such as designers who do not favor sandblasting because they fear that blasting will erode the brick’s face as well as mortar joints. The sandblast operator is very similar to a construction tradesman and a well qualified sandblast operator, who follows instructions properly, will enable sandblast cleaning to be superior to other systems. The basic functions that need to be understood in regards to learning how to sandblast are that it needs the use of portable air compressors, blasting tanks, blasting nozzles, operator’s protective clothing as well as hoods. When ...  more

Sandblasting is an effective cleaning process for hard surfaces with the use of high pressure air. The effect of sandblasting is similar to that of using sandpaper, but provides a more even finish.  more

Sandblasting is a general term to describe the act of removing fine bits of material at high-velocity to clean a surface. Silica sand is the most commonly used material, but any small, relatively uniform particles will work.  more

Sandblasting is a generic term for the process of smoothing, shaping and cleaning a hard surface by spraying solid particles of sand across that surface at very high speeds. The outcome is a rough, clean surface, providing an even finish with no problems cleaning corners or crannies. After sandblasting, parts are now ready for refinishing such as powder coating or wet paint.  more

Sandblasting is the term for the process of smoothing, shaping and cleaning a hard surface by forcing solid particles across the surface at high speeds, similar to using sandpaper but with a more even finish. The appearance of the finished look is determined greatly by the type of media used and the experience of the operator. To this end sandblasting is not just an industrial task but an art. The artisan is creating a pattern on the surface of the blasted material. Much practice and experience is necessary for one to become a truly skilled sandblaster.  more

Sandblasting is a general term used to describe the act of propelling very fine bits of material at high-velocity to clean or etch a surface. Sand used to be the most commonly used material, but since silicosis (a lung disease) is caused by extended inhalation of the dust created by sand, other materials are now used in its place. Any small, relatively uniform particles will work, such as steel grit, copper slag, walnut shells, powdered abrasives, even bits of coconut shell. Due to the dangers of inhaling dust during the process, sandblasting is carefully controlled, using an alternate air supply, protective wear, and proper ventilation. A sandblasting setup usually consists of three different parts: the abrasive itself, an air compressor, and a blaster gun. For etching and small object cleaning, a workstation to hold the piece of glass is also needed, as is some sort of collector to gather up excess dust. Sandblasting is primarily used for two somewhat different applications. The ...  more