Sandblasting shop with a blast room

Auto restoration shops, fabricators, machine shops, powder coaters, contractors and individuals with classic cars or large metal pieces.

Per-piece or hourly pricing, often with add-ons like primer or powder coating prep. Steady accounts with local shops give regular work.

• Hands-on metalwork knowledge
• Safe use of blasting and dust collection equipment
• Quoting and scheduling several jobs at once

• Zoning, building permits and landlord approval, since many landlords and insurers restrict blasting
• Check local air quality or environmental permits for dust and emissions
• Used media and removed coatings may count as hazardous waste, so check disposal rules in your state
• OSHA rules on silica, respiratory protection, ventilation, noise and fire safety
• General liability, property and workers' compensation insurance once you hire
• Fixed rent and equipment costs mean you need steady work from several customers

Estimates are typically around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on the rented unit, blast room or large cabinet, dust collection and compressor you choose. Fixed rent and equipment costs mean you need steady work.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on how many customers you serve and the size of the jobs. These are estimates, not guarantees, and rent and equipment costs come out of it.

Check zoning, building permits and landlord approval, since many landlords and insurers restrict blasting. Also check local air quality or environmental permits, hazardous waste disposal rules in your state, and OSHA rules on silica, ventilation and noise.