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Sandblasting concrete requires preparation of the surface, protecting surrounding materials, and proper blasting technique. Use a consistent, fine-grain sand and clear the area of bystanders. Test a small area before beginning the project.
Some of the best concrete blasting tips are preparing the surface, fixing surrounding materials that could become damaged, and training the correct blasting technique with the machine. The type of sand should also be considered before starting a project. Also, any close neighbors or bystanders should be cleared of the area for general safety.
Sandblasting concrete is a common way to rejuvenate the surface after many years of unsightly stains, such as along the driveway. Preparing the concrete surface is an important step; any objects on the concrete should be removed, such as tree branches or pebbles. Any debris left on the concrete while blasting will instantly become projectiles that can damage nearby property or people.
This form of concrete rejuvenation uses a machine that forces sand at high speed across the targeted surface. Consequently, any wooden objects or plants near the concrete should be covered with a tarp; high-speed sand can easily create small indentations in plant leaves or wood edges. If possible, it is good practice to remove any sensitive items away from the blast area. Some homeowners may even place plywood panels around the concrete area to keep sand from leaving the surrounding area.
Another tip for blasting concrete is proper technique. The wand of a sandblaster should be held at an angle to the concrete surface, preferably about 18 to 24 inches (46 to 61 cm) above the ground. The sandblasting process may take some practice at first; the walking speed must be constant, but not too fast, otherwise the blasting will not be as effective against the concrete.
Beginners looking to do their own concrete blasting project should test a small area first. The person may choose a corner of the concrete that is slightly out of the way; he or she can practice blasting that area until it achieves the desired look. This practice area will prevent the beginner from inadvertently damaging the main portion of the concrete if the blasting technique is not yet mastered.
Most concrete blasting projects use silica sand as the primary abrasive agent; other sands can be used, as long as they have a consistent size throughout the mixture. Also, the sand type should be relatively fine in size; larger grains of sand will create larger indentations in the concrete surface. The primary goal of sandblasting is to remove a thin layer of concrete from the immediate surface, instead of excavating large chunks of concrete with larger grains of sand.
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