Paint Removal & Surface
Preparation
Every long-lasting coating starts with the right foundation. Our in-house surface preparation services ensure coatings, markings, and resin systems bond correctly and perform for their full design life.
We operate a complete fleet of hydroblasting, grinding, and blasting equipment, giving us full control over quality, safety, and scheduling. This integrated approach keeps your programme efficient, dust-managed, and environmentally responsible—delivering consistent results across every project.
UHP Hydroblasting
Ultra-high-pressure (UHP) hydroblasting removes coatings, paints, and contaminants without damaging the substrate. Using pressures up to 40,000 psi, we can strip line markings, resins, or sealants while preserving the concrete or steel base.
The process generates no dust or chemical waste, using only water for cleaning and profiling, making it a sustainable and environmentally preferred method. It also leaves a textured surface ideal for recoating, reducing the need for secondary preparation.
HCA Lance
Hot compressed air (HCA) lance systems use a combination of heat and pressure to soften and remove thermoplastic, rubberised, or stubborn coatings. This method provides a controlled, non-destructive removal where mechanical or abrasive techniques may cause surface damage.
HCA removal is ideal for sensitive surfaces, expansion joints, or confined environments where clean, dry preparation is essential. It supports safe, solvent-free working with minimal environmental impact.
Scabbling
Scabbling is an aggressive mechanical process used for removing thick or hardened coatings, laitance, and uneven surface layers. We use it selectively on heavy-duty applications where faster material removal is required.
Scabbling is typically followed by grinding or shot blasting to refine the surface and achieve the correct profile or key for recoating. All works are completed under controlled dust extraction and vibration management systems, ensuring operator safety and compliance with environmental standards.
PCD Milling
PCD (polycrystalline diamond) milling is our go-to system for rapid removal of elastomeric, sticky, or thick film coatings. The precision-cutting discs strip material efficiently without overheating or damaging the substrate.
We follow each milling pass with diamond grinding to smooth and key the surface for coatings or resin systems. This approach ensures a clean, well-prepared base that supports strong adhesion and long service life.
Our PCD systems are designed for low-emission, high-productivity performance, reducing site time and energy consumption.
Captive Shot Blasting
Captive (closed-circuit) shot blasting delivers high-productivity, dust-controlled profiling—perfect for preparing large resin or marking areas. Steel shot is blasted against the surface and immediately recycled within the machine, leaving a consistent mechanical key and a clean, dry finish.
This process provides repeatable texture and bond strength, ensuring coating integrity and longevity. With integrated dust extraction, it’s a safe, clean, and sustainable preparation method that keeps air quality and site cleanliness high.
Dustless Sandblasting
For external steelwork, facades, or textured finishes, we use dustless sandblasting with built-in dust suppression. The system combines media blasting with water misting, significantly reducing airborne particles and rebound.
It’s ideal for steel preparation, corrosion removal, and textured cleaning where open blasting is needed but environmental control is essential. The process uses recyclable media and water-efficient systems, lowering waste and environmental impact.
Steam Cleaning / Pressure Washing
Steam and high-pressure washing is used to remove oil, salt, and surface contamination before coatings or line marking. The combination of heat and pressure penetrates deeply into the substrate, providing a clean, neutral surface ready for new applications.
This method is safe for sensitive finishes and uses minimal chemicals, supporting a sustainable and environmentally conscious cleaning approach.
How We Choose a Method
Every project is different. We assess:
- ● Substrate type and condition
- ● Coating thickness and material
- ● Programme and access requirements
- ● Dust and noise limits
- ● Desired surface profile and cleanliness level
Our recommendations balance efficiency, safety, environmental impact, and performance longevity, ensuring the chosen method supports the coating or system that follows.
- 1. Request a Surface Prep Plan
- 2. Book Removal Works
- 3. Ask for Method Pros & Cons
FAQs
1. Is it dust-controlled?
Yes. All systems are equipped with integrated dust extraction or suppression units for cleaner, safer operation.
2. Will UHP damage the surface?
No. When operated correctly, UHP hydroblasting cleans and profiles without damaging the base material.
3. Do you profile for resin?
Yes. We deliver consistent mechanical or hydro profiles ideal for resin flooring, coatings, and line marking.
4. Do you work out-of-hours?
Yes. We can schedule night works or OOH operations to minimise disruption to live environments.
5. Do you follow codes of practice?
Yes. All works comply with relevant industry standards and manufacturer recommendations, ensuring safety, quality, and environmental compliance.