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Contractors and facility managers alike agree that worker safety is the top priority when working on abrasive blasting job sites.From the depths of underground utility vaults to the interior of storage tanks, examples of confined spaces abound. Found in a wide range of industries and workplaces, each pose a unique risk to those who must enter them.

Working around other trades is one of the most challenging aspects of any surface preparation and coating application job. If a building intends to stay open for business during abrasive blasting, a whole new level of logistical issues come into play. Fortunately, Sponge Media™ blasting eliminated many of the headaches involved with these two common jobsite challenges on a recent parking garage repair and renovation project. 

Facility maintenance professionals play a critical role in preventing corrosion within industrial settings, employing a range of proactive strategies to safeguard infrastructure and equipment. Upstream and downstream oil and gas, industrial manufacturing, wastewater treatment plants, among many other production facilities must all have a plan in place to delay the impact of corrosion's harmful effects.

Tin ceilings are a popular decorative element in buildings, particularly in older structures. However, restoring a tin ceiling requires careful consideration and attention to detail. These ceilings are typically constructed of thin, delicate metal and can be easily damaged accidentally. Contractors that specialize in restoration should be consulted prior to the beginning of a tin ceiling restoration project.

Not long ago in Washington D.C. (USA), a large fire broke out in a restaurant during its ongoing remodel. Located along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal in the bustling neighborhood of Georgetown, the fire left heavy soot (about 20-30 mils) on a variety of different substrates inside the building, including brick, concrete, stone, and wood.

In the USA, some college and university campuses were founded 400 years ago, while globally some universities have been operating for nearly a millennia. Often, these institutions' most recognizable features are the unique visual characteristics of the campus' architecture. Whether these renowned structures are well-preserved originals or renovated within the last 100 years, periodic restoration, renovation, or maintenance projects are essential.

Safe drinking water is vital to communities everywhere. When corrosion became visible on the exterior of pipes at the Lincoln Water System pump stations in Lincoln, NE (USA), action needed to be taken. With four active pump stations delivering fresh water to the City of Lincoln, only specific stations were able to be out of service at any point in time. It was vital to ensure that water use capacity remained stable for residents throughout the completion of this work.  

When the dome of the Old Capitol building began showing wear and tear from exposure to the extreme Midwest weather, it was critical that the existing gold leaf be removed and replaced without damaging the copper substrate. 

In the beautiful seaside village of Niantic, Connecticut (USA), sits the historic Niantic Baptist Church. Located on Main Street and just moments from downtown, this Church is positioned at the heart of the small New England community. Unfortunately, in 2022 a fire damaged the church's interior, but fortunately, a Connecticut-based contractor with extensive restoration experience was able to help.

The New Jersey State House was built in 1792, and is the second oldest state house still in use. As part of a $300 million renovation, the restoration of the impressive gold dome structure was undertaken. This 160-foot tall (from floor to apex) dome is where sponge media blasting came to the rescue with the solution to a complex surface preparation and historical preservation problem.