Is My Car Safe To Sandblast? A Quick Overview Of When You Can And When You Should Avoid Sandblasting Your Car

Sandblasting is a very useful tool when it comes to repairing and restoring cars that have been on the road for many years or if you just want to start with a blank canvas on a new vehicle. However, there are some instances when people may be hesitant about sandblasting their car, and that is totally understandable. For collectors who are restoring classic vehicles to cars fresh off the production line, there are many reasons why you should be cautious about any bodywork or adjustment. Here is a brief outline of when you can and probably shouldn't get your car sandblasted. 

What Is Fine

Sandblasting is commonly used on the frames of cars to remove rust and other signs of wear and tear. This can be done with virtually no risk for several reasons, primarily because the frame isn't visible when the car is fully put together. In addition to this, the frame of a car is also made of stronger metals and alloys that do not react to the heat that sandblasting can cause. That is why sandblasting is always a part of any serious classic car renovation, and it is only when you get to the more cosmetic areas of your car that people are more hesitant. 

What Can Be Risky

Some forms of sandblasting can cause extreme heat that poses a risk of warping the panels of your car. However, this is not universally true of all sandblasting techniques, and many cars have thick panels, so even at the highest temperatures found in sandblasting, they remain undamaged. Wet sandblasting removes this risk completely, and other applications and devices can be used to minimise the risk in traditional sandblasting. 

How Do You Know The Sandblasting You Get Will Be Safe For Your Car?

Talk to your mechanic! That is the simplest way to work through any risks associated with sandblasting. Ask their opinion about whether they think it is safe to perform sandblasting on your car or whether it is too risky. If it is too risky, ask them if there is an alternative way to strip the paint or corrosion from your panels. They want to make you happy and will never perform a task they think might ruin your car without your express consent. They will also know the specific circumstances that might make sandblasting safer or riskier for your particular vehicle. While sandblasting does bring with it the risk of warping, it is safe when done by a professional who knows how to address these possible problems. 

To learn more about sandblasting, contact an auto body shop.

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