When it comes to restoring or prepping surfaces, sandblasting is a powerful and effective method—but only when done right. Whether you’re working on a heritage building, metal parts, or concrete finishes, choosing the right sandblasting company can make all the difference. In Cape Town, where quality varies widely, knowing what to look for will save you time, money, and frustration.
Here’s how to tell if you’re dealing with true professionals.
Experience isn’t just about how long a company has been around—it’s about what kind of work they’ve actually done and whether they can show results.
A reputable sandblasting company will have a portfolio of completed projects that reflect different types of surfaces (metal, brick, concrete, wood) and finishes. They should be able to walk you through before-and-after photos, explain their process, and describe any challenges they overcame on specific jobs.
What to look for:
A gallery or portfolio on their website or social media
Detailed case studies or client testimonials
Experience working on similar projects to yours (e.g. heritage restoration, industrial cleaning, automotive parts, etc.)
Willingness to provide references or contactable past clients
Why it matters:
Sandblasting requires skill. Too aggressive, and the surface is damaged. Too light, and the job’s ineffective. Experience means they’ve learned how to balance technique, pressure, and material for the best result—without trial and error on your project.
Red flag: If they can’t show you any past work or avoid the topic when asked, that’s a sign they might be new, inexperienced, or hiding poor-quality results.
The results of sandblasting are only as good as the equipment and materials used. A professional company invests in industrial-grade machinery and the right abrasives for each surface and job type. Using the wrong gear—or cheap materials—can lead to uneven finishes, surface damage, or wasted time.
What to expect from a reputable provider:
Modern, well-maintained blasting machines with adjustable pressure settings
A variety of abrasives (like garnet, glass bead, aluminum oxide, or steel grit) chosen based on the surface being treated
Dust extraction and containment systems to minimize mess and environmental impact
On-site equipment checks and maintenance to avoid breakdowns mid-project
Why it matters:
Good equipment equals better control, faster turnaround, and cleaner results. It also means the company is taking their work seriously—not cutting corners with outdated tools or mismatched materials.
Red flag: If all they use is a “one-size-fits-all” abrasive or they can’t explain their process or tools, it likely means they’re either untrained or trying to rush the job.
A professional sandblasting company takes safety seriously—for both their team and your property. Look for signs that they follow proper health and safety regulations, such as:
Use of full protective gear like helmets, respirators, gloves, and suits
Dust suppression systems to reduce airborne particles
Clear site safety protocols that keep clients, workers, and bystanders safe
Compliance with South African occupational safety standards, including COIDA and OSHA regulations
Valid insurance and liability cover, protecting you from risk in case of an accident
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. A reputable company will be upfront about their safety procedures and should have no problem providing documentation or explaining their compliance measures.
Red flag: If the crew arrives wearing no protective equipment or working without basic precautions, walk away. That’s not just unprofessional—it’s dangerous.
Professionalism isn’t just in the blasting—it’s in how the company deals with people. A reliable sandblasting service will communicate clearly, set honest expectations, and explain every step of the process before the job starts. No guesswork, no hidden fees, no ghosting.
What to expect from professionals:
Upfront quotes that break down costs (labour, materials, time, travel)
Clear timelines for start dates, completion, and any potential delays
Detailed explanation of the process, equipment, and expected results
Open channels of communication — someone always answers the phone or responds to messages
Written agreements or job cards to avoid misunderstandings
Why it matters:
Projects fall apart when communication fails. If a company can’t explain what they’re doing or avoids giving straight answers, you’re at risk of mismanaged expectations, extra costs, or incomplete work.
Red flag: If they rush you into booking without explaining the process, or their quote is just a vague “we’ll see” number scribbled down — that’s not a partner, that’s a gamble.
Every surface is different—and so is every project. A top-tier sandblasting company doesn’t treat all jobs the same. They assess your specific material, environment, and finish goals, then tailor their approach to get the best possible outcome without causing damage.
What to expect from a company that offers custom solutions:
Site inspection or photos requested upfront to assess the job properly
A plan tailored to the surface type (e.g. softer approach for wood, more aggressive for steel)
Selection of the right abrasive material and blast pressure for your needs
Advice on aftercare or coatings depending on your project goals
Flexibility in scheduling and scope—they adapt, not force you into a rigid package
Why it matters:
Cookie-cutter sandblasting often means rushed jobs, wrong materials, or over-blasting—leading to ruined surfaces or extra repair work. A company that tailors their service is one that respects your property and your goals.
Red flag: If they quote instantly without asking questions or offer a “one-price-fits-all” deal, you’re probably dealing with a volume pusher, not a quality pro.
A company’s reputation is the fastest way to gauge their reliability—and it’s earned, not claimed. In a city like Cape Town, word-of-mouth still matters. A reputable sandblasting service will have a track record of happy clients, visible reviews, and a consistent local presence.
What to look for:
Google reviews with detailed feedback (not just vague 5-stars)
Before-and-after photos shared on social media or their website
Tags or mentions from local businesses or clients
Willingness to provide references or let you speak to past clients
Professional presence—they answer the phone, keep appointments, and follow up
Why it matters:
A good local reputation means they’ve done real work in your area—not just slapped together a Facebook page. It also means they’re invested in doing the job right, because their next referral depends on it.
Red flag: No online presence, no reviews, and no one in your area has heard of them? That’s not low-profile—it’s suspect.
A professional sandblasting company doesn’t disappear the moment the job is done. They provide ongoing support, advice, and follow-up, showing that they stand behind their work. This level of service separates quick contractors from companies that truly care about client satisfaction.
What to expect from solid post-service support:
Follow-up communication to ensure you’re happy with the results
Advice on maintenance or protective coatings to extend the life of the blasted surface
Willingness to return for touch-ups or corrections if something was missed
Guarantees or workmanship warranties, even if limited
A point of contact you can reach easily after the job
Why it matters:
Surfaces treated with sandblasting often need additional care—especially metal, which can quickly rust if left exposed. A responsible company ensures you understand what comes next, and won’t leave you guessing.
Red flag: If they rush the clean-up and vanish without a word, you’re on your own if anything goes wrong.
Choosing a sandblasting company isn’t just about price—it’s about professionalism, reliability, and proven results. While not every box needs to be ticked, a few key ones—like 1, 4, 5, and 7—are non-negotiable. If those are missing, consider it a red flag. If you’re in Cape Town and looking for a team that checks all the right boxes, Millroy Services is here to help. Contact us today
Units 5&8 Berbax Park, Berkley Road, Maitland, Cape Town Sandblasting isn’t just about cleaning or surface prep — it’s an art form. When done with
Units 5&8 Berbax Park, Berkley Road, Maitland, Cape Town At Millroy Services, we believe true craftsmanship lies in precision — especially when it comes to
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