Structural steel is at the heart of modern construction, strong, versatile, and essential for everything from agricultural sheds to large-scale industrial complexes. But in coastal regions like Cornwall, protecting that steel is not just a best practice – it’s a necessity.

At Hewaswater Engineering, we combine precision shot blasting with high-performance paint systems to dramatically extend the life of structural steel, even in Cornwall’s demanding marine climate.

Here’s how the process works and why it matters for your project.

Why Cornwall’s Environment Demands Extra Protection

Cornwall’s coastal and rural environments can be tough on steel. Moist sea air, high humidity, and airborne salts all accelerate corrosion. Left untreated, structural steel exposed to these elements can suffer from:

• Rust and surface degradation
• Loss of structural strength
• Increased maintenance costs
• Premature replacement

That’s why steel used in Cornwall needs a specialist surface preparation and coating system not just for aesthetics, but for long-term protection.

Shot Blasting – The Foundation of Durability

Shot blasting is the process of propelling abrasive material (usually steel shot or grit) at high velocity to clean and texture the surface of steel.

Benefits of Shot Blasting:

• Removes mill scale, rust, and contaminants
• Creates a clean surface with the ideal profile for paint adhesion
• Improves coating performance and lifespan

At Hewaswater, our in-house blasting facilities are designed to deliver consistent, controlled surface preparation for projects of all sizes. Whether it’s a small batch of beams or large structural components, every piece is treated with precision.

Industrial Paint Systems – Built to Last

After blasting, steel is coated using industrial-grade primer and topcoat systems that meet or exceed corrosion resistance standards for coastal and industrial applications.

We use:

• Zinc-rich primers for enhanced corrosion resistance
• High-build epoxy or polyurethane finishes for abrasion resistance and weather protection
• Custom paint systems tailored to each project’s location and exposure class

Our painting booths are equipped for controlled application and curing, ensuring every coating adheres flawlessly and performs over time.

Proven Protection Across Cornwall’s Industries

We support a wide range of Cornwall-based sectors with shot blast and paint services:

• Construction: steel frames, handrails, cladding supports
• Mining and aggregates: wear-resistant and anti-corrosive coatings for heavy-duty components
• Marine and coastal builds: protective coatings designed for salt-laden environments
• Agriculture: corrosion-resistant finishes for sheds, barns, and equipment housing

Wherever your steel is going in Cornwall, our processes ensure it arrives ready to withstand the elements.

The Hewaswater Advantage

Why choose Hewaswater Engineering for your steel surface treatment?

Advantage	What It Means for You
In-house shot blast & paint facilities	Faster turnaround, better quality control
Experienced coating specialists	Application to industry standards and beyond
Custom solutions for each sector	Coatings matched to real-world conditions
Trusted by local and national clients	Proven track record since 1947

Extend the Life of Your Steel with Hewaswater

When you invest in structural steel, you’re investing in the backbone of your project. Our shot blast and paint services ensure that investment is protected for decades not just in the lab, but in the real-world environments of Cornwall.

Ready to start your next project? Call us on 01726 885200 or
Email sales@hewaswater.co.uk