Frequently Asked Questions
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Sandblasting, sometimes known as abrasive blasting, is the operation of forcibly propelling a stream of abrasive material against a surface under high pressure to smooth a rough surface, roughen a smooth surface, shape a surface or remove surface contaminants.
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There are several different options when it comes to materials to be used with sandblasting, such as: garnet, glass (beads, windshield, crushed bottle, etc.), slags (copper, coal, nickel, iron), organic materials (walnut shell and corn cob), or biodegradable options like baking soda.
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Choosing the right material for your project is easy! We’ll meet for a free consultation, you’ll tell me what the project and desired outcome is, and I will use my expertise to pick the material best for the job.
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As a trained sandblaster, I have worked on a wide variety of projects such as: vehicle restoration, graffiti removal, rust removal, parking lot line removal, wood projects, cement texturizing, antique restoration, furniture restoration, remodel preparation, algae and mold removal from stone and brick, and many small miscellaneous items. Sandblasting can be the solution for a variety of problems. If you’re questioning if sandblasting is right for you, reach out any time!
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While sandblasting very often can warp metal, I have the experience to know the distance, pressure, and material to use to drastically minimize or eliminate the chance of warping. Prior to beginning work, I will check the metal to see what it can withstand in areas of concern. If I believe warping may occur, I will let you know and avoid that area.
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Absolutely! Depending on the desired texture and look of the wood, we can use different materials to remove stain or paint, or to expose a more dramatic wood grain.
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It can! Again, this is a pressure, distance, and material thing. Very often, when it comes to cement, people will use sandblasting to remove a stain, paint, or parking lot lines. I have also done cement projects to add texture that will provide a grip or help to attain a certain cosmetic look.
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We work to meet our clients needs to cover areas where damage could occur ranging from light containment to full containment. More often than not, areas of concern can be fully protected by the use of plywood and/or plastic draping. All concerns about the potential of damage will be expressed prior to beginning work on the project.
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Mobile sandblasting has to take various factors into consideration when pricing out a project. Everything from labor, mileage, fuel costs, media consumption, containment needs, clean up and disposal, and potential risks will be taken into account.
For bigger jobs, the need for scaffolding, scissor lifts, or boom lifts may be necessary.
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Sandblasting creates dust which can be a breathing and eye irritant. Typically, if you’d like to watch the job being done, you can stand upwind and will be able to avoid coming into contact with any of the dust.
We, at Sword & Shield, only use silica-free sandblasting media. Some projects may have lead or other harmful chemicals that are being removed from surfaces. In that case, there are products to denature the lead and further steps can be taken to ensure safety if there are other hazardous materials being removed.
For additional questions, please reach out to us at 469.360.3636 or send us a message here .