A lightly abrasive but non-damaging process that safely removes paint, rust, grease, and buildup while preserving the surface.
• Removes corrosion, coatings, and contaminants without surface damage
• Prepares surfaces for painting, coating, or inspection
• Restores visual appearance and material integrity
• Ensures long-term protection and compliance
• Reduces downtime through efficient, controlled cleaning
The UK's Trusted Blast Cleaning & Restoration Professionals
APT ICC provides professional blast cleaning services across England and Wales, helping organisations safely clean and prepare a wide range of surfaces. Blast cleaning is a general term used to describe several surface
cleaning methods that remove paint, rust, dirt, and heavy build-up from materials such as steel, concrete, and masonry.
Blast cleaning is often known by different names depending on how the process is carried out. Abrasive blasting is the broad term for cleaning a surface using a controlled blasting material. Grit blasting is typically used for heavier-duty work, such as removing thick coatings or corrosion from steel and concrete. Wet blasting, also known as dustless blasting, uses water during the process to reduce dust, making it suitable for live sites or areas where dust control is important. Soda blasting uses a much softer material and is often chosen for more delicate surfaces where damage must be avoided. Dry ice blasting uses frozen carbon dioxide pellets to clean surfaces without leaving residue behind, making it ideal for sensitive equipment and environments.
Each blast cleaning method is selected based on the surface being treated and the final result required. The process is commonly used before painting, repairs, inspections, or refurbishment works, leaving surfaces clean, even, and ready for the next stage.
With over 35 years of experience, APT ICC is trusted by Facilities Management companies, local authorities, construction contractors, and industrial operators to deliver blast cleaning services safely and effectively. Every project is assessed individually to ensure the most suitable method is used, protecting the surface while achieving the required outcome.
APT ICC regularly carries out blast cleaning on live operational sites across England and Wales, including industrial plants, ports, commercial buildings, and infrastructure assets. All works are delivered under strict health, safety, and environmental controls to minimise disruption and ensure consistent, high-quality results.
APT has earned trust as the preferred choice for Conservation Architects and Building Surveyors throughout the UK. Our proficiency in soda blasting is complemented by a consultative approach that takes into account the intricacies of heritage and conservation projects.
We specialise in inventive and comprehensive cleaning solutions for various types of buildings and facades, ranging from commercial structures to aged and fragile ones. An example of our successful application of soda blasting is the cleaning of the Neath Town Centre - Wales, Taibach Library, Wales.
“I would like to express my sincere thanks to APT for the excellent job they carried out at Tai Bach. The project was a much needed one and now that it is completed it has really helped to improve the look of the town. We have received many good comments from the public which is always a good sign.”
Kevin Hiller - Property Surveyor, Neath & Port Talbot Council
“We employed the services of APT to renovate a Grade 2 Listed Building. Under the directive of Cadw we were not allowed to use any wet process or chemicals within the interior of the building. APT used Soda Blasting on sandstone, brick, ceramic glazed tiles, metal work, paintwork on ceilings, coving, woodwork and ornate fixtures.
It was a great achievement to have one system for all the surfaces that needed cleaning and restoring and one that also ticked all the boxes of the environmental and conservation officers. The process saved us both time & money in being able to have just one company on site. We are very grateful to APT for their hard work on this project.”
Tim Luke - Gee Construction
“I would like to thank APT-ICC for their excellent work and assistance on the Barclays Bank project. They delivered the scheme and additional works on time and without issue thanks to Andrew and his team for all your extra effort, long hours and commitment. I look forward to using them on future renovations.”
Graham Lowe - Project Manager, Overbury Plc
“We have been receiving an overwhelming number of positive comments about the war memorial cleaning. Yesterday, during the small ceremony at the Penrallt column on the 1st World War anniversary, many expressed their appreciation for how splendid the memorial looks after the cleaning. We anticipate sharing photos on the internet page later this week. Additionally, we have shared your details with another person who serves as the clerk to two other local councils. Thank you once again for the exceptional work.”
Janice Davies - Gwynedd Council
Blast cleaning is used to remove rust, paint, coatings, and heavy contamination from surfaces like steel, concrete, and masonry. It prepares surfaces for painting, repairs, inspection, or refurbishment. It’s commonly used on industrial plants, structures, tanks, and large assets.
In-house blast cleaning is possible, but the upfront cost of equipment and setup is high. Without experience, results are often inconsistent and not suitable for recoating or inspection. For large areas or critical surfaces, specialist operators usually achieve a much better finish.
Blast cleaning is one of the fastest and most effective ways to remove rust and coatings over large areas. The method used depends on the surface and the level of build-up. In some cases, chemical treatments can support or replace blasting for specific tasks.
Yes, when the correct blasting method and media are used. The process must be matched to the surface to avoid damage or over-cleaning. This is why planning and experience are important on industrial sites.
It can do if not properly controlled. Professional blast cleaning uses containment, wet methods, or dust suppression to reduce mess and disruption. This is especially important on live sites.
Grit blasting is used for heavy-duty coating and corrosion removal. Wet blasting reduces dust and is better for sensitive or live environments. Soda blasting uses a softer material for delicate surfaces where damage must be avoided.
A specialist should be used when the area is large, access is difficult, safety is a concern, or the finish needs to be consistent and documented. Poor preparation can lead to coating failure or repeat work later. This is where experience makes a clear difference.
Yes. In some situations, professional chemical cleaning is a better option or can be used alongside blasting. APT ICC can advise on suitable products, including those manufactured by APT Commercial Chemicals, which we use across industrial projects in England and Wales.
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