Sandblasting is a method wherein an abrasive material, in this case a sand, is used to smoothen surfaces. A sandblaster attachment is placed onto the pressure washer so that it can propel fine bits of material at high-velocity. This is also very useful not only for cleaning and smoothing, but also for removing stubborn stuff like chipping paint and rust.
Even though sandblasters can work on its own, many recommend using sandblasters with water (attaching it to a pressure washer) because it becomes more effective. The water mixes with the sand and creates a powerful spray, allowing you use less sand and finish the job faster.
Buying a sandblaster attachment is also cheaper than buying an entire separate machine for this job. If you already own a pressure washer, all you have to do is purchase a sandblaster kit to attach to it. This is recommended especially if you intend to use your sandblaster occasionally.
There are many factors that may affect your purchase so make sure to read and know most of them before investing in a sandblaster. The prices vary; it can be very cheap to very expensive so you’ll want to get the best out of your buck.
What are the factors to consider when getting a sandblaster attachment for pressure washer?
Review each factor below to know what to look for in a sandblaster. These may vary according to your needs and wants as well as the type and power of the pressure washer you own.
Type – There are three main types of sandblasters. These are gravity-fed, siphon, and pressure. Here, we will only discuss about a single type, which is the pressure sandblaster, as the main course of action will be attaching the sandblaster onto your existing pressure washer.
There are sandblasting kits that come with sandblasting guns that are hooked onto the pressure washer. Pressure sandblasters are the easiest to use because all you have to do is hook it in and start blasting away. The only downside of this type is the fact that the sand can’t be reused so you’ll have to purchase new sand canisters every time you run out.
Size – You should look for a sandblaster that is compatible with your pressure washer. For instance, if you have a light duty pressure washer, ranging from 1,200 psi to 2,000 psi, get a sandblaster that can work with it without problems. The same should be applied for heavy-duty pressure washers of around 2,500 psi to 3,500 psi.
Also check for the capacity of the sandblaster to fire up sand. You can check how much weight it spews an hour as it is listed in the sandblaster’s specifications. The most common is about 200-300 kilogram an hour.
Kit – When buying a sandblaster attachment, make sure that everything that you’ll need is already included. The important parts that you should check out in the kit are the following:
- Metal probe
- Sand hose
- Adjustable sand intake
- Sand blast head
- Different nozzle sizes
- Safety goggles
- Sand
Comparison Chart
The sand may or may not be included in the kit so you’ll have to buy it separately. You can get one such as the:
Black Diamond Blasting Abrasive
Although it is not “sand” per se, it works with all blasting equipment.
How do you attach the sandblaster to your pressure washer?
If this is the firs time you’re doing this, you can check the manual of both the pressure washer and sandblasting kit to study their different parts. When you’re familiar with them, follow the simple steps below:
- Connect the sandblast head to the sand hose. Pick the nozzle size you need and attach it to the sandblast head.
- Place the sandblaster induction probe in the sand supply container
- Connect the sandblast into the pressure washer
- Open the water supply line and connect the pressure washer to a power source
- Trigger the gun to activate the spray
- Test it on a scrap material first. The high pressure may damage the surface if you are too close
Don’t forget to always point the nozzle downward when you are spraying. This is to prevent the water from getting into the sand supply hose. As a safety precaution, also wear goggles and mask to protect the eyes and the face. Wear work gloves when spraying because the abrasive materials can definitely cut and scrape.
What are the best sandblaster attachments for your pressure washer?
Karcher Electric Pressure Washer Sandblasting Kit
This sandblasting kit is compatible for Karcher electric pressure washers but can be tried with similar pressure washers. It comes with the nozzle and sand hose as well as free safety goggles.
Oregon 37-050 Pressure Washer Sandblasting Kit With 10-Inch Sand Hose 24-Inch Lance Extension 3650 Max PSI
This kit comes with a 10-inch sand hose and 24-inch lance. It only comes with one nozzle size, which is at 4.5 with 1.5mm orifice size. This sandblaster attachment is a bit on the expensive side. If you’re eyeing to purchase this, make sure that it’s really compatible. Otherwise, you can get cheaper ones below $100.
Sand Blaster For Pressure Washer – Wet Sandblasting Kit For Pressure Washer With Sand
This sandblasting kit can be used for pressure washers up to 5,000psi. It includes an 8-ft hose, and nozzle size in 0.45. It has a steel material body and can move sand at 350kg per hour.
Key Takeaway: Make sure to check first if the sandblaster attachment you are eyeing is compatible for your pressure washer. You can take an example of the hose you are using with your washer and compare it with the size of the sandblaster, to make sure that it will fit.
Conclusion
Sandblaster attachments are great because it makes the pressure even more powerful, which is great not only for cleaning persistent dirt and grime, but also for removing paint and rust. These attachments are not that expensive and are more practical than buying a separate sandblasting equipment. If you already have a trusty pressure washer, just opt for this attachment.