Using Soda Blasting for Paint Stripping

soda and sand blaster gun
  • 2-6 hours
  • Intermediate
  • 0-500
What You'll Need
Sweater
Safety glasses
Work gloves
Jeans
Work boots
Facemask
Soap
Water
Clean rags
Sodium bicarbonate
Vacuum
Broom
Abrasive blasting gun
Air compressor
Wrench
Plastic sheets
Masking tape
What You'll Need
Sweater
Safety glasses
Work gloves
Jeans
Work boots
Facemask
Soap
Water
Clean rags
Sodium bicarbonate
Vacuum
Broom
Abrasive blasting gun
Air compressor
Wrench
Plastic sheets
Masking tape

Abrasive blasting replaces traditional sanding and can be done in several ways, 1 of which is soda blasting. Soda blasting replaces sanding because it is easier and more effective. You can also use soda blasting on most surfaces without fear of damaging the surface. Other abrasive blasting techniques use small granules of sand, glass beads, and even bits of plastic.

Soda blasting uses sodium bicarbonate, which is otherwise known as baking soda. Sodium bicarbonate is inexpensive and environmentally safe. It will also not damage a surface but will do the job it is intended to do. Soda blasting is great to use to remove paint, and the following article will show you how.

Step 1 - Tape off the Area

Tape off the area to protect it from sodium bicarbonate. Cover all windows with plastic and masking tape. Cover all wood that you do not want to treat. If you plan on saving the sodium bicarbonate for another round of soda blasting, or you wish to protect the floor, then lay plastic down in front of where you will be working.

Step 2 - Safety

The process of soda blasting is safe, but the speed at which the sodium bicarbonate is propelled heats it so that it can burn you. You also do not want to swallow it, get it in your eyes, or inhale it. Wear a sweater, hat, jeans, and boots to protect yourself. Wear protective glasses and a facemask to avoid other dangers. Wear gloves as the soda-blasting gun can become hot and provide a lot of kickback. Ear protection may also be needed, as soda blasting is loud.

Step 3 - Set Up the Unit

The soda blasting unit consists of a gun, air compressor, and canister. Close all of the air valves. Attach a hose to the gun and the tank and the air compressor to the tank. After the hoses have been attached and tightened with your hand, use the wrench to tighten them further. Fill the canisters with the sodium bicarbonate until you reach the engraved line inside the canister. This indicates the full point of the canister. You need the extra space to allow for proper airflow. Shut the lid and pull the ring to seal the canister tight.

Step 4 - Soda Blasting

Set the PSI on the unit to 30, and stand several inches away from the area you plan to strip the paint. Aim the nozzle at the area, open the air valve on the nozzle and pull the trigger. Move the nozzle around the area until the paint is visibly removed. Repeat as needed. Sweep and vacuum the sodium bicarbonate off the ground or floor. Wipe down the surface with soap and water to remove the residue created by the process.