PAINT REMOVAL REMOVAL USING SODA BLASTING
Private Client - Maggie Hawkins, APT ICC Head Office, NP22
Client's Challenge
Maggie Hawkins contacted APT ICC to carry out specialist paint removal as part of a wider classic car restoration programme.
The vehicle had previously been resprayed in several areas over time, resulting in inconsistent finishes across the bodywork. As part of the restoration process, the decision was made to remove all existing paint to allow the vehicle to be refreshed properly and rebuilt from a clean, consistent starting point.
The challenge was to remove the paint back to bare metal in a controlled manner without damaging, warping, or distorting the original body panels, ensuring the car could be repaired and refinished to a high standard.
Assessment & Planning
APT ICC met with the client and the appointed spray shop to review the vehicle and assess panel condition, previous paint coverage, and areas requiring particular care.
Discussions focused on agreeing the level of preparation required, the sequence of works, and the most appropriate low-impact paint removal method. The proposed approach and expected outcome were agreed in advance to ensure the process supported the overall restoration objectives and subsequent repainting stages.
Methodology
APT ICC delivered the paint removal works using a carefully controlled low-pressure soda blasting methodology.
Soda blasting was selected due to its non-aggressive properties, allowing paint to be removed without damaging or warping metal panels. Low working pressures were used to maintain control and protect large, flat body sections.
The works were carried out as follows:
1. Preparation and masking of the vehicle prior to blasting.
2. Positioning of the vehicle within a shipping container to fully contain blasting debris.
3. Controlled low-pressure soda blasting (approximately 2–3 bar) applied to body panels.
4. Gradual removal of all existing paint to bare metal.
5. Continuous monitoring to ensure panel integrity was maintained throughout.
This method allowed the vehicle to be stripped cleanly while preserving the original structure.
Site Access & Logistics
Equipment
• Specialist lift access equipment
• Professional dusting, wiping, and surface cleaning tools
Chemicals
• UltraClean MB – bactericidal cleaner and sanitiser for stainless steel
and food-safe surface hygiene
• Dekon 50 – sanitising and deodorising treatment
All products were selected for effectiveness within public venue environments
when applied by trained operatives.
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The Results
• High-level beams and baffles cleaned, removing accumulated dust
• Auditorium restored to a clean, fresh condition
• Stage and backstage areas cleaned and presented to venue standards
• Improved hygiene, air quality, and overall presentation
• Works completed fully within the weekend programme
