FAQs
Q: What is the difference between soda blasting and sand blasting, and which one do I need?
A: It comes down to surface sensitivity and the specific requirements of the substrate. Soda blasting (using bicarbonate of soda) is our primary method for gentle, eco-friendly restoration—it’s ideal for residential stonework, heritage masonry, timber beams, and fire-damaged structures where preserving the underlying material is critical. Abrasive blasting is our more aggressive approach, reserved for structural steel, heavy-duty ironwork, or concrete preparation. We assess every project on-site to determine the appropriate medium and pressure to achieve a professional finish without compromising the integrity of your structure.
Q: Is abrasive blast cleaning messy or harmful to the environment?
A: We pride ourselves on clean, professional site management. Soda blasting is non-toxic and water-soluble, making it a highly effective, clean alternative to chemical stripping. Regardless of the media used, we implement strict containment protocols to manage dust and debris. We ensure your site remains safe, compliant with environmental regulations, and thoroughly tidied before we sign off on the job.
Q: What is the scale of work that Gleamgenie specialises in?
A: We are a specialist contractor focusing on high-value, substantial projects. Our expertise covers residential property restoration—such as full-front facade cleaning, masonry restoration, and exterior brickwork—as well as larger commercial and industrial contracts. While we are happy to discuss medium-to-large residential property work, we do not take on small, miscellaneous items or minor domestic “odd jobs.” We focus our resources on projects that require our specialized industrial equipment and technical expertise.
Q: How do you handle restoration projects for fire-damaged buildings?
A: Fire damage requires more than just surface cleaning—it’s about removing soot, smoke particulates, and stubborn odors that penetrate deep into masonry or timber. We use specialized soda blasting to strip the damaged layer away entirely, revealing the sound substrate underneath. This is often the most effective method for salvaging structural elements that would otherwise require expensive replacement.
Q: Can you perform work at height or in difficult-to-reach areas?
A: Yes. Our mobile units and equipment are designed for challenging environments. Whether it’s high-level cladding cleaning, masonry restoration on multi-story residential buildings, or industrial roofing, our team is equipped to work at height safely and efficiently. We bring the full capability of our industrial kit directly to your site.
Q: How do I get an accurate quote for my contract?
A: Because every restoration or cleaning project has unique variables—such as substrate condition, square footage, and access—we don’t provide “off-the-shelf” pricing. Please call us at 0141 637 5275 or email info@gleamgenie.co.uk with the details of your project. For residential and industrial contracts, we will arrange a site visit to conduct a formal assessment and provide a detailed, competitive tender.