Park Stories

Rec Facilities: Technology For The Future

PRB+ Magazine

How waterblasting is changing the surface-preparation market

By Jordan Koster

Sandblasting and waterblasting both stem from naturally occurring processes. Both types of erosion existed long before humans harnessed the power of sand and water. It wasn’t until the 1870s that the preliminary sandblasting process was developed. Over the last century and a half, sandblasting has been used for sharpening tools, engraving, cleaning, and weathering surfaces. But it wasn’t until the 1970s and 1980s that waterblasting became advanced enough for safe use.