Sandblasting Paint Removal for Wooden Cabinets

About Sandblasting

• Sandblasting is an industrial process that uses compressed air to propel sand or other abrasive materials onto a surface to remove coatings in preparation for other finishes. The process was patented in 1870 by Benjamin Chew Tilghman, according to the AdvancedApplications website. It first was used by the U.S. Navy on steel but soon gained wide acceptance for use on a wide range of materials including other metals, wood, plastic and masonry.

Sandblasting Media

• Sandblasting got its name from the sand that first was used in the process, but soon other materials were blasted, creating a variety of surface effects. The abrasive material shot onto the surface is referred to as the “media.” Common sandblasting media are aluminum oxide, glass beads, silicon carbide and acrylic plastics.

Sandblasting Wood

• Cabinets can be sandblasted to remove old finishes down to the bare wood, preparing them for new finishes. But wood generally is a soft material, so the process must be done carefully to avoid damaging the cabinet. Wood also is not the same hardness throughout and softer areas can be worn away during the sandblasting process. For that reason, gentler abrasives such as pumice, corncobs or baking soda, are used on wooden surfaces. These media are harsh enough to remove paint and varnish without cutting deeply into the wood.

Professional vs. Do-It-Yourself

• Sandblasting requires specialized equipment including a sandblasting cabinet to contain the messy abrasive material, compressed air and protective equipment for the operator. Because of the problems wood presents, do-it-yourselfers may find cabinets too difficult to do with home sandblasting equipment. The results may be uneven and not very attractive. Also, using abrasives in residential environments can contaminate nearby properties. A professional sandblasting company experienced in removing finishes on wooden products is well worth the money.