When to Use Dry or Wet Media Blasting

Are you tired of looking at the dirt and grime that has accumulated on your home's exterior surfaces? 

Do you want to give your surfaces a thorough cleaning but don't know where to start? 

While soft washing and pressure washing are excellent cleaning options for removing dirt, grime, and scummy buildup, sometimes these methods aren’t enough to restore exterior surfaces with tough stains, graffiti, or paint. 

That's where media blasting comes in. 

What Is Media Blasting?

Media blasting is a powerful cleaning method that uses either dry or wet materials to remove stubborn stains, debris, and grime. It is highly effective and efficient at restoring anything from concrete and stone to metal, as long as it’s done by experienced hands. 

Of course, the videos online make media blasting look easy: Just purchase a DIY media blasting kit and let a rip. 

But before you accidentally etch an atrocious design into your concrete retaining wall or power off all the sealant on your driveway, take a look at this guide from the experts in media blasting at Clean ‘N Seal. 

Know Your Media Blasting Terms

The type of materials used in media blasting come with very specific purposes depending on the hardness, structure, and dirt or stain accumulation of your surface. 

Pick the wrong material, and you’ll end up damaging the surfaces you’re trying to clean! Check out our quick guide on what surfaces require which media to clean them effectively.

Along with choosing the right media, you also need to understand the difference between dry and wet media blasting and when to use them. 

Dry Media Blasting

Dry media blasting uses materials such as crushed glass, baking soda, or sand to force debris and stains off a surface at high pressure. 

Using a professional for dry media blasting is important as it can be harmful to the environment if not done correctly. It is best used on tough stains, such as graffiti or rust, and on abrasive surfaces, such as metal or concrete. 

While dry media blasting is a powerful cleaning method, it can also cause damage to softer surfaces, such as wood or stucco, as they may not be able to withstand high pressure or the type of blasting material you use.

Wet Media Blasting

Wet media blasting also uses abrasive media, such as crushed glass or sand, but adds water to mix. The water helps to lubricate and cool down the surface being cleaned and helps to prevent damage to softer surfaces. 

Wet media blasting is ideal for surfaces like brick, stone, and concrete and is great for removing stains such as algae or mold. 

This method is also environmentally friendly, as the water prevents any dust or debris from flying into the air. 

Which Method Should You Use? 

It is important to consider the surface being cleaned before choosing whether to use dry or wet media blasting. 

If you are not sure which method to use or whether your home’s exterior surface can withstand the pressure, it is always best to consult with a professional. A pro will be able to evaluate your needs and determine which cleaning method is best suited for your surfaces. 

While DIY media blasting kits are available for purchase, it is always safest to leave it to the professionals to ensure the job is done properly and safely.

Typical Uses for Dry Media Blasting

While there is a science to determining which method works best for different materials, in general, dry media blasting can be used for:

• Removing graffiti and bad stains from concrete.

• Eliminating rust from metal surfaces.

• Preparing log homes for new stains (with the use of gentler media).

• Cleaning soot from a building using soda blasting (can also be used wet).

Standard Uses for Wet Media Blasting

Because wet media blasting uses water, its application should be used in specific circumstances, including:

• Stone or brick patio and walkway restoration.

• Concrete driveway and sidewalk stain and paint removal.

• Tough algae, mold, and mildew elimination from stone and concrete.

Why It's Best to Use Professionals

From soot removal after a fire to graffiti and tough stains, media blasting is a powerful method for cleaning, but it isn't for everyone. 

It involves high-pressure equipment that should be handled by experienced professionals, and the process has the potential to damage your property or injure the user if you’re not trained and careful.

Professional, Eco-Friendly Equipment

The Clean ‘N Seal team uses state-of-the-art equipment that is water-reclaiming and eco-friendly, so no water is wasted on your property, and there are no harmful environmental impacts. 

Trained Specialists

Without proper training and equipment, media blasting can be dangerous and cause serious injury or harm to the surface being cleaned. 

Our professionals are trained to handle the equipment safely and know how to adjust the pressure based on the surface being cleaned. 

Safety Gear & Procedures

Our team also has the proper safety equipment required to protect themselves during the cleaning process. From protective suits to face guards and helmets, our crews stay up-to-date on all required safety measures. 

Additionally, our teams take the time to protect your property during the cleaning process, too. Our prep work includes taping doors and windows, covering siding that might be exposed to abrasive concrete cleaning, and trimming the back edges of your yard for clearer access to pavers and protecting your plants. 

Rely On the Pros at Clean ‘N Seal for Media Blasting in MN

The Clean ‘N Seal team has been helping homes and businesses throughout the Twin Cities and Brainerd areas maintain the look and safety of their properties for over a decade. 

Using only the highest quality equipment and cleaning standards, our team prides itself on our media blasting techniques that return your exterior surfaces to their original splendor. Specializing in all areas of media blasting, from log cabin cleaning to difficult concrete restoration jobs, our mission is to make properties beautiful for every generation. 

Contact us to schedule your media blasting project!