March 23, 2021

Polishing techniques for solid surface countertops

Customers want countertops that are beautiful and durable without spending a lot of money. That’s a tall order! But many solid surface countertops – such as Staron, Corian, LG HI-MACS, Livingstone, and Wilsonart – fill that order by being relatively inexpensive while being looking luxurious. But fabricating, installing, and finishing these countertops can be daunting. 

Elevated Industrial Solutions, formerly known as Lane Supply Company, has expertise with these countertops. We provide a little knowledge, have the right abrasives, and suggest a little practice getting the steps right.  

Polishing to make solid surface countertops high-end

Countertop fabricators and contractors use a few tricks to make these solid surface countertops stand out. 

Refine the scratchgrit grade recommendations 

Abrasives can make a difference; the way you use the abrasives can also make a difference. Using a non-directional scratch pattern refracts light providing a scratch-free, smooth finish. Shallow scratches even ensure the surface looks glossy, according to Abrasive Boss. While deeper scratches give your surface a matte look.

Choose the grit and finish  

How rough or deep are the initial surface scratches? What’s the seam like for your countertop? Both will help you identify which grit you use. Generally, for speed and quality, start with the finest grit possible to minimize the number of grit steps to blend the two joining sheets. 

  • 80 grit (for deep surface scratches or seam leveling)  
  • 120 grit 
  • 150 grit 
  • 240 grit  

Using the previous grades, work up to the desired finish  

Finish Grit Product 
Matte 240g Maroon Scotch-Brite (non-woven disc) 
Semi-Gloss 400g Gray Scotch-Brite (non-woven disc) 
Gloss 600g, 800g White Scotch-Brite (non-woven disc) 

 

Polish the countertop 

There are many different shades of final finishes. Depending on the shade, you may need to refine with polishing compounds and a wool buffing wheel. For repair work or when getting a high–gloss shine, you’ll use more polishing compounds.   

3m polishing products

Repeat and complete

Solid surface countertops are a great option when done right. Elevated has the expertise on how to handle your countertop challenges as well as the right products to help you get the perfect finished product every time.  

Tami Matthews
Author: Tami Matthews
Tami Matthews is the Director of Marketing at Elevated Industrial Solutions. She’s spent 20+ years in marketing, focusing on writing, public relations, digital marketing, and content marketing. Before coming to Elevated in December 2020, she worked for a number of high-tech companies. Writing is one of her favorite pastimes. In her spare time, she volunteers for a number of causes including the Kunsmiller Creative Arts Academy working on the PTO. She also hikes with her husband and begrudging daughter.
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