Get matched with top sandblasting pros in Mountain View, CA

Because these two systems have different applications, there is no definitive answer to which is better. When working with sturdy materials, sandblasting is cheaper and faster, but more delicate projects require soda blasting. Before choosing either option, consider your specific needs, particularly your ultimate goal (cleaning, removing rust, prepping for painting, etc.), the material, and your budget.

The best way to sand a deck is by cleaning it, sanding the boards and stairs with 60- or 80-grit sandpaper, and sanding the railings and posts with 80-grit sandpaper. You should sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid damaging the timber. When sanding your deck, use medium pressure and aim for an even sand. Pressing too hard with a sander can damage decks, as most are softwoods.

Your pro will most likely bill you at an hourly rate of $50 to $80 per hour to sandblast a door due to its small size. This type of job won't take long, so if you have other surfaces that need cleaning, schedule those tasks at the same time to get your money's worth from your pro's visit.

Sandblasting refers to the process of cleaning a surface using compressed air and aggregate. Soda blasting is the gentlest type of this method, but it differs from sandblasting that uses mineral or other aggregate, since sodium bicarbonate breaks apart more easily than other forms of blast media and, therefore, cannot be reused.