The Differences Between Sandblasting and Water Blasting and Their Benefits

There are multiple methods of surface preparation you can use to get a surface ready for finishing or painting. Whatever method you choose, you must make sure it reliably removes all grease, dirt, dust and imperfections before you set about putting on your new coating.

Two of the most popular methods of surface preparation that are similarly environmentally friendly are sandblasting and water blasting. Here’s a quick overview of each of these processes, including water blasting and sandblasting benefits in Colorado.

Sandblasting

Perhaps the most popular blasting method for surface preparation, especially for metal surfaces, sandblasting is very effective for removing dirt, dust and old paint. The dry sandblasting approach uses pressurized air and abrasives, while the wet sandblasting technique uses high-powered water with abrasive materials. Either method can be used for cleaning just about any kind of surface.

There are certain sandblasting benefits you should consider while deciding on the kind of blasting method you’ll use. Sandblasting is more efficient than water blasting in that it can clean a surface faster and easier. This is especially beneficial when working with large surface areas. For deep cleaning and smoothing surfaces, you’ll use high-pressure sandblasting. Otherwise, for simple rust or dust removal or other light cleaning needs, you’ll use lighter pressure.

Sandblasting significantly cuts down on the amount of time it takes to prepare a surface as compared to using sandpaper, taking the job down from days to hours. It can be combined, in some cases, with pressure washing or steam cleaning. Keep in mind, though, that dry sandblasting can create some dust clouds, so it is important to take the proper safety precautions before beginning the job.

Water blasting

Water blasting, like sand blasting, is highly environmentally friendly and safe. Just as the sand can easily be brushed or swept away, the water left over from water blasting will not be an issue for the environment. You’ll be able to clean a wide range of surfaces without having to use chemicals that would release dangerous toxins into the surrounding environment. Because water blasting doesn’t leave any residue behind, that means you can cut out the extra rinse process you’d have to use with other types of surface preparation.

The water blasting equipment you would use for the job gives you some good flexibility with regard to the level of pressure you get from your water. There are nozzles that come in a wide variety of sizes, and the kind you choose will depend primarily on the type and size of the job you’re taking on. Low-pressure settings and nozzles are beneficial for removing surface contaminants and debris, while higher-pressure settings and nozzles are beneficial for removing adhesive, stripping multi-layered coats and cleaning out cracks.

Either one of these methods is an effective solution for cleaning and preparing surfaces before you repaint or refinish them. For more information about the various sandblasting and water blasting services we offer to our clients, or to experience sandblasting benefits in Colorado firsthand, we encourage you to contact DJC Enterprises Inc. today.

Categorised in: Sandblasting

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