Sandblasting in Chicago is a popular service with a range of applications, from removing paint and rust from cars to cleaning and restoring buildings. It is a process of using pressurised air or water to blast abrasive media against a surface, removing old paint, corrosion, dirt, and other contaminants. Chicago offers a variety of sandblasting services, including mobile soda blasting companies that focus on car restorations and fire and mould remediation. The city also has a range of sandblasting contractors specialising in different types of blasting, such as vapor blasting, sponge-jet blasting, and traditional sandblasting. According to reviews, some companies provide quick responses and efficient sandblasting services. Before commencing any sandblasting project in Chicago, it is important to obtain an Architectural Surface Cleaning Permit from the City of Chicago.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Sandblasting companies in Chicago | Bob's Blasting Service, Fox Valley Sandblasting & Powder Coating, M & M Portable Sandblasting, McCahill Painting Company |
Services offered | Sandblasting, soda blasting, powder coating, metal fabrication, furniture repair, snow removal, bumper repair, fence and gate repair |
Other services offered | Vapor blasting, sponge-jet blasting, drone power washing and window cleaning, industrial and commercial painting, graffiti removal, water sealer application |
Permits required | Architectural Surface Cleaning Permit |
Annual events | Ultimate Chicago Sandblast, a co-ed beach ultimate Frisbee tournament |
What You'll Learn
- Sandblasting in Chicago requires an Architectural Surface Cleaning Permit
- Sandblasting is used to remove paint, corrosion, rust, dirt, and more
- Soda blasting is a popular alternative to sandblasting
- Sandblasting can be performed on a variety of materials, including metal, concrete, and wood
- There are companies in Chicago that offer sandblasting services
Sandblasting in Chicago requires an Architectural Surface Cleaning Permit
The City of Chicago requires an Architectural Surface Cleaning Permit for sandblasting, grinding, or chemically washing any building, facility, statue, or other architectural surface. This permit is separate from any construction or renovation permits issued by the Department of Buildings.
Permit Application Process
To apply for an Architectural Surface Cleaning Permit, you must sign in to the City of Chicago Permit Portal and click on "Apply for New Permit." The permit fee is $150 per building, structure, statue, or other architectural surface for the first calendar month and $100 for each subsequent month or fraction thereof.
Required Documentation
The following documentation must be provided as part of the permit application:
- The name, telephone number, and address of all individuals with an ownership interest in the property
- The name, telephone number, and address of the contractor or person performing the sandblasting operation
- A sworn statement from each applicant agreeing to comply with notification requirements
- A sworn statement disclosing whether the sandblasting will occur on painted or unpainted surfaces, including laboratory test results and compliance with dust minimization requirements if applicable
- The address and estimated dates and duration of the sandblasting operation
- A dust minimization plan, if required
- A certification by the applicant that the information provided is true and correct
Permit Compliance
Once the permit is obtained, copies of the permit and supporting documentation must be maintained at the location being sandblasted and made available to City inspectors upon request. Sandblasting cannot commence until the permit has been issued.
Notifications
At least 48 hours before starting sandblasting, notifications must be provided to all occupants of the building, as well as occupants of nearby residential buildings and owners or managing agents of neighbouring residential and non-residential buildings within a specified radius.
Environmental Considerations
Special considerations apply if the sandblasting involves painted surfaces. Representative paint samples must be tested for lead content, and if lead is present, a state-licensed lead assessor must develop a dust minimization plan.
Other Permits
In addition to the Architectural Surface Cleaning Permit, the City of Chicago also requires permits for other activities that impact the environment, such as permits for above-ground storage tanks, recycling facilities, waste handling facilities, and construction site rock crushers.
Sandblasting Media: Rust Removal Options
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Sandblasting is used to remove paint, corrosion, rust, dirt, and more
Sandblasting is a versatile technique with a variety of applications. It is a method used to strip away unwanted surface layers, such as paint, corrosion, rust, and dirt, from a range of materials. Sandblasting is particularly effective for metal surfaces, revealing the underlying surface by breaking down the unwanted top layer.
The process involves using an air compressor to propel abrasive grains at high velocity onto the desired surface. This action disintegrates the unwanted surface material, such as rust, and removes it. A variety of materials can be used as the abrasive agent, including aluminum oxide, garnet, coal slag, copper slag, nickel slag, and crushed glass. Each type of blast media has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice depends on factors such as the material being blasted, the desired speed of the process, and the potential for reuse of the media.
For example, garnet can effectively remove rust, but it creates a significant amount of hazardous dust and pulverizes quickly, making it less suitable for reuse. On the other hand, crushed glass is a sharper and more cost-effective option, but it may require more time and higher abrasive consumption. It is important to select the appropriate media to ensure the process is safe, efficient, and does not damage the underlying material.
Sandblasting is a highly specialized technique that requires careful preparation and execution. It is crucial to follow the instructions provided by the equipment manufacturer to ensure safety and effectiveness. This includes preparing the work area, properly loading and handling the blaster, and taking the necessary precautions to protect oneself from potential health risks associated with the process.
Sandblasting is a powerful tool for removing unwanted surface layers, but it must be approached with caution to ensure the best results and prevent any potential damage to the surface or one's health.
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Soda blasting is a popular alternative to sandblasting
Soda blasting is considered safer and more environmentally friendly than traditional sandblasting methods. It is non-toxic, non-flammable, and does not create noxious fumes, making it safe for both people and the environment. The softness of the sodium bicarbonate abrasive media, which is much softer than sand, means it won't damage delicate surfaces like wood or aluminium. This makes soda blasting ideal for removing graffiti from old buildings, restoring furniture and antiques, and other delicate projects.
Soda blasting is also effective for cleaning machinery on a regular basis, including food processing equipment, without causing extra wear. The baking soda can be quickly and easily cleaned up after use, making it an efficient and cost-effective option.
The process of soda blasting involves using a special machine known as a soda blaster. This equipment looks similar to conventional sandblasting machines but uses baking soda instead of sand. The soda is mixed with pressurised air and then forced through an abrasive nozzle at high speed. The sodium bicarbonate particles burst as they come into contact with the surface, releasing energy that removes the contaminant or coating.
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Sandblasting can be performed on a variety of materials, including metal, concrete, and wood
Sandblasting is a versatile process that can be used on a wide range of materials, including metal, concrete, and wood. Each material requires specific techniques and equipment to achieve the desired results.
When sandblasting metal, the process can be used to remove paint, rust, or other coatings, and to prepare the surface for further treatment such as powder coating. Metal sandblasting is commonly used for automotive parts, furniture, and metal fabrication projects.
Concrete sandblasting, on the other hand, is an effective way to texture and restore concrete surfaces. It can be used to expose the aggregate beneath the concrete, creating a rough surface finish. This process is often employed to remove paint, dirt, grime, or graffiti from concrete walls, columns, driveways, and floors. The degree of blasting can vary from light cleaning to deep cutting, depending on the condition of the concrete and the desired outcome.
Wood sandblasting is a more delicate process, as wood is a softer material compared to metal and concrete. It is often used to create a distressed or rustic look on wooden surfaces, such as furniture or fencing. Wood sandblasting can also be used to remove old paint or stains, preparing the wood for a new finish.
In all cases, sandblasting is a powerful technique that utilizes abrasive materials propelled at high velocities to generate friction and remove unwanted substances from the surface. By varying the equipment, media, and pressure, different cut depths and textures can be achieved on the targeted material. Sandblasting offers a cost-effective and time-efficient solution for a variety of surface treatment and restoration needs.
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There are companies in Chicago that offer sandblasting services
Another Chicago-based company, McCahill Painting, provides abrasive blasting services, including sandblasting and soda blasting. They have extensive experience in both wet and dry abrasive blasting techniques and can safely blast away years of contamination in busy, inaccessible, and sensitive environments. They specialize in abrasive blasting for industrial structures and equipment, tanks and silos, precast concrete, structural steel, masonry, wood, metal building facades, and swimming pools.
There are also other sandblasting companies in Chicago, such as Fox Valley Sandblasting & Powder Coating, M & M Portable Sandblasting, and Blast All Sandblasting, which can be found on Yelp. These companies offer a range of services, including powder coating, furniture repair, and metal fabrication.
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Frequently asked questions
Sandblasting is a process that uses pressurized air or water to blast abrasive media against a surface to remove old paint, corrosion, decay, dirt, graffiti, and biological and atmospheric contamination.
Sandblasting is a fast and effective method of cleaning and restoring surfaces. It can be used to remove paint, surface rust, grease, bacteria, and smoke. It is also useful for preparing surfaces for paint adhesion.
There are two main types of sandblasting: dry abrasive blasting and wet abrasive blasting (or vapor blasting). Dry abrasive blasting uses pressurized air, while wet abrasive blasting uses pressurized water to blast the surface.
Yes, according to the Chicago Municipal Code, Section 11-4-2190, a permit called an Architectural Surface Cleaning Permit is required for sandblasting any building, facility, statue, or architectural surface in Chicago.