Pasco Painting Company
509-566-9976

Sand Blasting

Sand blasting is a process that has been around for quite a while now and is a great way to smooth out surfaces on large scale structures. In the past, simple sand paper was used to strip off paint, varnish or stain. While this technique is still being used, there is a better technique that we can employ. Sandblasting takes the same idea as using sandpiper, but refines it; making the process go much faster. If you are looking for a cost effective, quick way to remove old paint or stain layers, let us come out and blast them away.
 
Process
The process of sandblasting involves using a machine that helps to propel aggregate through it. Usually this machine consists of a generator, which pressurized air. In the tank of the machine, sand and air are mixed together, where they are then pushed out through a hose and nozzle system. These machines can be tuned to use more, or less, pressure so that certain surfaces, and wood types, will not be damaged. The nozzle is slowly moved over surfaces, where the sand and air abrasively remove the top layer of the surface they are hitting.
 
Benefits
The benefits of sand blasting are numerous. One of the biggest benefits is that sandblasting is a relatively quick process, which can strip large surfaces in a short amount of time. Another benefits of sand blasting is that, because the pressure can be adjusted on the blasting mechanism, the machine can be safely used on multiple types of surfaces. Sand paper is generally only used for wood, where as chemical removers need to be used on things like metal. However, sand blasting can be used on both of these surface types, with no issues at all.
 
Safety
One of the major risk factors with sandblasting is the danger that it can pose to someone who does not understand how to properly use the equipment. Because a sand blaster kicks a large amount of dust and sediment in to the air, the operators (and anyone standing by) should be wearing a mask that keeps these particles out of the lungs. Another thing to keep in mind is that, even on a low setting, a stream of aggregate from the blaster can tear skin. Because of this, safety suits, gloves and masks should always be worn when performing this type of job.
 
Large Scale Projects
Sand paper is a fine choice to help strip small areas, but when used to try and tackle massive areas, it can be a slow, tedious process. For this reason, we always recommend using a sand blaster on commercial buildings. We can take care of stripping projects, that would normally take several days, in one to two days. While sandblasting may cost more upfront, the amount of labor it will save you, will help to balance out the budget. If you have a commercial building that needs to be stripped, in prepping for new paint, or stain, we are here to help.