What Is Sand Blasting?

Sand blasting, also known as abrasive blasting, is the process of cleaning or preparing a surface by forcibly propelling abrasive material under high pressure. It’s commonly used to strip rust, paint, corrosion, and other surface contaminants, leaving a clean substrate ready for finishing.

At Full Blown Coatings, we treat sand blasting as more than just prep work—it’s the foundation for quality. If the surface isn’t properly cleaned and etched, powder coating or paint won’t adhere well, and durability will suffer. That’s why we emphasize precision and the right equipment for every blasting job.

Why Is Sand Blasting Important?

Sand blasting plays a vital role in:

• Surface preparation for powder coating or painting
• Rust and corrosion removal
• Extending the lifespan of metal parts
• Improving appearance and texture

We’ve helped clients from Logan to Lehi revive old patio sets, strip down classic car frames, and prep structural beams for commercial builds. In every case, proper blasting made the difference between a finish that lasts and one that fails.

Types of Sand Blasting

There are several techniques, each suited to different materials and finishes:

Dry Sand Blasting

The traditional method using compressed air to blast abrasive media at a surface. It’s aggressive and effective for heavy rust or thick paint.

Wet Sand Blasting (Vapor Blasting)

Combines water with abrasive media to reduce dust and friction. Great for delicate surfaces or jobs in residential areas where dust control matters.

Soda Blasting

Uses baking soda as the abrasive. It’s much gentler and ideal for engine parts, aluminum, or even wood.

Depending on the project, we may recommend one method over another. For instance, when blasting antique car parts from a restoration shop in Ogden, we used soda blasting to avoid damaging the thin metal panels.

What Tools Are Used in Sand Blasting?

Air Compressor

Every sand blasting setup begins with a powerful air compressor. It generates the pressure needed to push the abrasive media through the system. The higher the pressure, the faster and more efficiently the surface is cleaned.

Sand Blasting Gun / Nozzle

The gun or nozzle directs the abrasive stream. Different nozzle materials (like ceramic or tungsten carbide) are chosen based on how aggressive the blasting needs to be. Precision nozzles are used when working on small or delicate parts.

Abrasive Media

We choose from a wide range of materials depending on the job:

• Silica Sand: Traditional but less used due to health concerns
• Glass Bead: Smooth finish; good for aluminum and delicate surfaces
• Aluminum Oxide: Aggressive and reusable
• Steel Grit: Ideal for tough industrial jobs
• Soda: Gentle and water-soluble

We once restored a large metal sculpture from a public park in Salt Lake County, using fine glass bead media to clean the surface without damaging the artist's detailing. The final result was both clean and intact—ready for a fresh powder coat.

Blast Cabinet or Open Blast System

Smaller parts are blasted inside a cabinet for precision and containment. Larger items, like trailer frames or gates, require open blasting, often outdoors or in our dedicated blasting room.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Sand blasting can be dangerous without proper gear. Operators use helmets with built-in air supply, heavy-duty gloves, suits, and hearing protection to stay safe.

Common Surfaces and Projects That Use Sand Blasting

Sand blasting is incredibly versatile. Some of our most common projects include:

• Automotive Restoration: Frames, wheels, suspension parts
• Industrial Equipment: Tanks, piping, machinery
• Outdoor Furniture & Fixtures: Benches, fences, metal art
• Construction Materials: I-beams, steel supports, rebar

A client in Kaysville brought us a weathered iron fence passed down through three generations. After blasting away layers of rust and paint, we finished it with a matte black powder coat. It looked brand new and will last for decades more.

Why Hire Professionals for Sand Blasting?

While DIY blasting kits exist, they fall short in many ways:

• Power and Consistency: Our commercial equipment offers higher pressure and precision.
• Surface Knowledge: Choosing the right media and pressure matters—too much can warp metal, too little won’t clean it.
• Safety Standards: Sand blasting dust can be hazardous. Our facilities are set up to protect both our workers and the environment.

By hiring professionals like Full Blown Coatings, you’re not just getting clean metal—you’re investing in the success of your entire project.

FAQs About Sand Blasting Near Me

Is sand blasting safe for all types of metal?
Yes, with the right media and pressure settings. We tailor our process to match the material.

How much does sand blasting cost?
It depends on the size, condition, and material. We’re happy to provide free estimates for projects big and small.

Can I combine sand blasting with powder coating?
Absolutely—and we recommend it. A properly blasted surface creates the perfect base for powder coating to bond and last.

How long does the process take?
Turnaround varies by project size. Small parts can be done same-day, while larger items may take a few days, especially if coating is involved.

Final Thoughts

If you want a finish that lasts, sand blasting is where it starts. Whether you’re working on a vintage car in Utah County, industrial gear in Davis County, or metal décor in Cache County, Full Blown Coatings has the tools, experience, and facilities to do the job right. Our professional sand blasting services are trusted across northern Utah for one simple reason—we care about getting it right the first time.

Reach out today to schedule your project or learn more about our blasting and powder coating solutions. Let’s bring your metal back to life.