If you are new to abrasive blasting, you may be wondering where to source your media. While you can always find recycled crushed glass in the Dustless Blasting Online Store, we often recommend that our blast professionals outside of Texas identify media distributors that are closer in proximity to their geographic location to avoid unnecessary freight fees.
Follow the instructions below to find a distributor near you, and you will be blasting in no time!
Pro Tip: Before you begin your quest to find the blast media in your area, be sure to check out our Media Guide for a refresher on which kinds of media are available on the market and the properties of each.
HOW TO SOURCE MEDIA LOCALLY
STEP ONE: conduct an internet search
Oftentimes, a simple internet search is the quickest and most reliable option for finding an abrasive blast media distributor near you.- Open your preferred web browser
- Make sure your location services are turned on
- Type any of the following into the search bar:
- Abrasive blast media distributor near me
- Sandblasting media distributor near me
- Blast media distributor near me
- Follow the leads that are closest in proximity to you and work your way outwards on the map from there
Pro Tip: Once you identify a media distributor near you, call or visit the store if possible to set up a meeting with the management to introduce your company and discuss your long-term media needs. Many of our business owners have found success securing bulk rate deals by developing relationships with their local provider.
STEP TWO: VISIT MEDIA MANUFACTURER WEBSITES
Another option for sourcing abrasive blast media is to go directly to the source – the manufacturers themselves. By contacting manufacturers of abrasive media, you can often get access to a wider selection of products and potentially even custom media options. While this route may require more effort in terms of research and communication, it can be worth it for those looking for specialized or high-performance media.
Input your zip code into the distributor location services finder on the following media manufacturer websites to find the location nearest you:
Click here for the Tru Abrasives location finder.
Click here for the Black Beauty location finder.
Click here for the Black Diamond Abrasive Products location finder.
Click here for the GMA Garnet Contact Us form.
STEP THREE: CALL YOUR LOCAL INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIER
For a wider selection of abrasive blast media, consider reaching out to industrial supply companies. These chain stores specialize in providing a range of abrasive media options, including steel grit, garnet, and more. While industrial supply companies may require you to purchase in bulk, they often offer competitive prices and high-quality products.
Our business owners have found abrasive blast media at a number of Harbor Freight, Tractor Supply and Northern Tool locations across the country. Call your local branch and request to set a meeting with the purchasing team. As previously mentioned, Dustless Blasting professionals have developed relationships with these branches that allow them the opportunity to order in bulk, even when the product might not be available on the shelves.
STEP FOUR: POLL THE BLAST COMMUNITY
If you are already a Dustless Blasting business owner, post an inquiry in the private Dustless Blasting Business Owners Facebook group to see if there are other operators in your area who might be able to make a referral to a media distribution group.
SELECTING YOUR BLAST MEDIA
Still stumped on what media to use for your specific project? Read up on Choosing the Right Abrasive by clicking here, post your job in the Dustless Blasting Business Owners Facebook group for guidance or call Dustless Blasting tech support at (281) 869-3421. You can also visit our Case Studies webpage for specific job examples to help inform your decision.
Pro Tip: When accepting a blasting opportunity, it is always recommended that you perform a test job on a small area of the project before moving forward. This test allows you the opportunity to perfect your variables such as standoff distance, media flow, PSI and your media of choice. Openly communicate with your customers about their expectations for the finished product and don't forget, cleanup does not come free!
For more blasting tips and tricks, visit the Dustless Blasting Academy here.
CONCLUSION
Choosing the right media for your blasting jobs is crucial to make the most of every dollar for your business. As we all know, time is money. Selecting the appropriate abrasive and finding a distributor near you to save on shipping costs and make the most of your time can only mean increased productivity and a bigger bottom line. By putting in the effort ahead of time to research the best options for sourcing media for your business, you will be off and blasting as soon as you get your Dustless Blasting system in hand.
To learn more, check out these Media Blasting FAQs or call our team today at 1-713-869-2227.
