Fire Recovery and Steel Surface Restoration at CareCo, Braintree

13th October 2025

When CareCo suffered a facility fire just six months after opening, VariBlast was brought in to help restore critical infrastructure and prepare the building for reopening. We completely removed the damaged intumescent coating – that had reacted to the fire – from the facility’s structural steel, followed by surface preparation for reapplication by ATE. Our team worked efficiently to restore the steel’s integrity in quick time to move onto the next stage of repair.

Working at height within the large open interior, our IPAF-certified technicians utilised a MEWP (mobile elevated work platform) to safely access and blast the tall steel columns. The combination of skilled operators and specialised equipment allowed us to reach every surface without compromising quality.

One of our team members blasting the existing intumescent coating up close.

Four of our high-capacity blast pots. These units deliver consistent abrasive flow and pressure control, ensuring uniform coating removal and optimal steel profile for re-coating.

Outside the building, GenAir compressors powered our blasting systems. We specifically chose this equipment for its efficiency and reduced emissions profile. As part of VariBlast’s environmental commitment, GenAir seems like the suitable choice for they are designed to use less energy and reduce our overall carbon footprint.

VariBlast were proud to help CareCo one step closer to opening. This project reflects our ability to restore damaged steel and restore the structural integrity and safety in this facility, in collaboration with other contractors.