Has the lustre of your epoxy resin patio surface faded? Is it looking a little dull? Are you intending to utilise epoxy resin for your next backyard patio and want to keep that shine for a while? Are you unsure about the best polishing compounds for your budget? Do you want to know about DIY options for polishing? Are there eco-friendly compounds? In this post, we’ll go in-depth with tips and tricks advice and the Best Polishing Compound for Epoxy Resin.
Is your Epoxy Resin Suitable for Polish or Not?
You can polish your epoxy table, floor, or other epoxy items to make it clean and shiny again. You can polish any cured epoxy resin items and epoxy surfaces with a suitable polishing compound. Epoxy floor and tables are exceptionally durable and rugged.
However, you must be gentle and extra careful while polishing your epoxy resin. If you apply too much force, you may end up damaging the surface or the glossy appearance. You may have to sand deep marks and scratches of your epoxy to remove them.
After that, the spot will be hazy. By buffering your epoxy with a polishing compound, you can return the epoxy to its former glory.
There are Two Types of Epoxy Resins: Hard and Soft
Before you polish epoxy resin, it is crucial to determine the type of resin. There are mainly two types of epoxy resin: hard and soft resin. Polishing different types of resin will require other polishing techniques and polishes.
When hard resin cures, it turns hard like plastic. Resins such as polyester and polyurethane are hard when they cure. Casting epoxies have hardness like glass after drying.
On the other hand, soft epoxy resins are soft as silicon after curing. You can dent soft epoxy resin with your fingernail. Besides, it becomes softer with body heat.
To polish a hard epoxy resin surface, you can use a buffing wheel with high-power and abrasive compounds. However, you must be extra cautious regarding soft epoxy resin pieces since they could melt just by exposure to low heat. You need a lighter polishing process. As for a large area or surface, use a low-power polishing machine with circular motions, but it is better to use your hands for soft epoxy objects, not too much pressure.
Epoxy Resin Polishes of Various Types
If you have never polished your epoxy resin floor or objects before, you may wonder about the products required to do the job. You will find hundreds of polishes and tools available in the market. Using these products, you can get rid of dirt and scratches from the epoxy. There are also polishing compounds to keep your epoxy glossy.
Here are different types of epoxy resin polishes you need to know about:
Compounds for Polishing
Want your faded epoxy resin shiny and beautiful again? Then you will need to use some polishing compounds. There are two polishing compounds for epoxy resin- liquid and paste. Both forms are simple to use.
Liquid polishes are more suitable for sensitive epoxy polishing. These polishers are less abrasive. So, beginners should practice with liquid polishers. However, you have to use force and a stiff fabric to polish epoxy if you choose liquid polishers.
Paste polishing compounds are more abrasive. Thus, it does not require much force to work with them.
Abrasives
Abrasives are necessary to get your epoxy resin in shape. An epoxy resin table or floor may get deeply scarred. You can remove the marks using abrasives, like grit, sandpaper and sand blocks. Different-grit sandpapers are available to polish epoxy surfaces. Also, there are abrasives in the form of pastes.
Kits In Their Entirety
As a first-timer, you may not have the necessary things to begin your epoxy polishing job. To make things easier, you can simply buy a polishing kit. A polishing kit has everything you need to polish epoxy, like accessories, polishing compounds, cloths, sandpaper, sand blocks, etc.
Selecting the Best Polishing Compound for Your Epoxy Resin
Choosing the suitable polishing compound and abrasives is essential for your epoxy resin polishing. They should go along with your epoxy resin type when you buy products.
Consider the Epoxy Type
The first step is to know which type of epoxy you have. For soft epoxy resin, you can consider less abrasive liquid polishes. Hard epoxy is easy to clean with a bit of abrasive polishing. However, make sure the compound does not contain any chemicals that can harm the glossiness of the epoxy.
Check The Quality Of The Product
A high-quality polishing compound can give your epoxy a clean glossy look. These compounds contain distinct polishing grains required for different levels of polishing. A polishing blend that has weather-protective seals not only cleans the epoxy surface but also makes keep the epoxy appear fresh for years.
Be sure the product you buy will be effective for your epoxy resin. After use, the epoxy surface should look clear and shiny.
Versatility
The polishing compound should be versatile. Choose a product that you can use on different epoxy crafts or works of art such as coasters, tabletops, countertops, floors, and many more. Many polishing compounds are ideal for polishing other materials, like metal, glass, wood, cardboard, etc.
Ease of Use
The product you choose should be easy to apply. You can find polishing compounds in spray bottles, squeeze tubes, and jars. So, pick one that you find convenient to use on the surface of the epoxy resin.
Affordability
Consider your budget while choosing a compound. Polishing compounds from brand manufacturers are often high-quality products with a guarantee. Though brand products can be expensive, you can still afford them. If you have a limited budget, consider buying non-brand products having the necessary features.
Based on the manufacturer and quality of the product, you may have to pay $5 to $10 per 4 oz to 5 oz or 100 grams of polishing compounds.
Now, you have to buy a product according to the use of your epoxy object. Is it something used indoors or something outside? If you are going to polish outdoor epoxy resin, always choose a compound made for outdoor use.
5 Short Reviews Of Some Of The Best Polish Products
As said before, there are hundreds of products available in the market. Choosing the right polish products according to your needs can be difficult. Thus, here are a few products that might benefit from narrowing down your choices.
1. Premium Polishing Compound And Cleaner Kit
Do you love crafting with epoxy resin? Then look no further. The Premium Polishing Compound and Cleaner Kit from the Incredible Solution is an excellent choice for you. This multipurpose polishing compound kit has a cleaner, polishing compound, and a spray attachment.
You can polish all sorts of epoxy resin crafts such as tabletops, countertops, bar tops, jewellery, and coaster. Apply this polishing compound right after sanding an epoxy craft and see how it makes them shine. Besides, the 3 In 1 Advanced Formula of the polisher can nicely take care of surface scratches of your epoxy crafts.
Highlighted Features:
● Multipurpose Polishing Kit
● Great surface cleaner
● 3 In 1 Advanced Formula removes scratches
● Provides durable polish
2. DecoArt Triple Thick Gloss Glaze (Jar)
If you have a deeply scratched epoxy floor or surface, the DecoArt Triple Thick Gloss Glaze is the best choice for you. Because of its extra thick formula, you may not need to coat the epoxy surface more than once. Once the coating dries, you will get a scratch-free look and an illusion of depth.
The gloss dries fast. The wait is not lengthy at all to get the final product. You do not have to worry about stroke marks after drying since the product does not leave any. This toxic-free quality polishing compound comes at an affordable price. Since it is not good at resisting high heat, it is suitable for indoor use only.
Highlighted features:
● Extra-thick polishing compound
● Non-toxic
● Versatile polishing compound
● No stroke marks after drying
3. TOP FINISH 2 Ultra High Gloss Polishing Compound
TOP FINISH 2 is precisely what its name suggests. It is a fine polishing compound to be applied after epoxy resin products are crafted. The nano-particle formula of the products makes sure you get an ultra-glossy surface after polishing. You can also use it to bring back the shine of your dull epoxy resin that faded over time.
Any epoxy project can get a glossy finish from river tabletops bar tops to jewellery with TOP FINISH 2. Avoid building up too much heat when applying the product with a polishing pad, as the compound can get affected. You can also use clothes to apply the polishing compound on the epoxy.
Highlighted features
● Ideal for finishing different epoxy items
● Nano-particle formula
● Creates ultra-glossy surface
● Great for re-polishing epoxy products
4. Turtle Wax Polishing Compound & Scratch Remover
Next, we have another fantastic product from a well-reputed company. The Turtle Wax Polishing Compound & Scratch Remover gives incredible results after polishing epoxy resin. This compound works as both polishing and scratch removing compound.
The paste can quickly get into the scratches and fix the problems. Also, it is highly effective in shining up faded epoxy resin.
The product is easy to use. You can take a bit of the compound and apply it gently to the epoxy surface. It does not require a lot of paste to polish the surface. If you do not have a buffering machine at hand, you can apply the Turtle Wax Polishing with your hands.
Highlighted features:
● Easily restores epoxy surfaces
● Polishing and scratch removing compound
● Best for hand use
Finally, you should know about another product from a brand, the NOVUS Plastic Polish Kit. It is an excellent product for restoring dull epoxy resin full of scratches. It ensures your objects can last for a long time looking beautiful.
The NOVUS Plastic Kit is easy to use. So, beginners can practice polishing their epoxy crafts with this product. The kit has three polishing compounds. With these compounds, you can remove haziness and fine scratches. They clean and protect epoxy for years.
Highlighted Features:
- Includes three polishes
- Great for cleaning and removing scratches
- Lasting surface protection
Step-by-Step DIY Guide to the Process of Polishing
Now that you have learned how to choose a polish compound, you should know how to make your resin crafts glossy like glass using a polishing compound. Gather all the items required to polish your epoxy resin. The things you will need are:
- Sandpapers of various grits/ Sand blocks
- Water
- A buffering wheel
- Buffering pads
- Polish/scratch remover compound
- Wax products
When you have collected your products and tool, it is time to polish your epoxy resin.
Below are the actions you need to follow:
- Your epoxy craft or floor may have a few imperfections like scratches, dead insects, hair, or uneven surface. So, first, you need to identify the areas you need to work on.
- Considering the severity of the imperfections, you may have to consider the sanding of epoxy resin. Some areas may need sanding with a little pressure and different grits of sandpaper ranging from 100 to 1200 grit.
- Start with low grit sandpapers and gradually use high grit sandpapers and a sanding block as required to fix the imperfections. Try to get even a surface as possible. Maybe use an orbital sander rather than hand sanding or a wet sanding method rather than dry sanding. When you finish sanding, the epoxy resin will look dull and hazy.
- The next step is to buffer your epoxy resin. It will fill in all the scratches missed during sanding and even finish. Use a buffering machine for better results instead of your hands.
- For the final step, apply a polish compound on the surface of the epoxy resin. For the final polish, use the buffering wheel or buffing drill piece in a circular motion to disperse it. To get a glassy effect on the surface, you may have to apply a few coats of epoxy polish several times for high gloss shine.
After applying the polish, you can stop there if you are satisfied. However, many people use wax products as they believe they add to the shine and protection of the epoxy surface of the resin.
Polishing Epoxy Resin Thorough Illustration
In this clip, Matt Hutton utilises sandpaper grits ranging from 80 to 600 to demonstrate the quickest and most robust approach for polishing epoxy resin countertops. Pure Acetone is what he uses to clean in between sanding. After that, he does wet sand and polish. He explains pressure in great detail, providing you with a solid foundation to begin your DIY projects. Go check out Matt’s YouTube channel and subscribe.
Hutton, M. (2021, March 8). FASTEST METHOD! How to Sand & Polish Epoxy Resin. YouTube. Retrieved March 13, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FBucPyRcVbg
FAQ’s
After sanding, why does my resin seem dull?
Your epoxy resin will look pale for a few reasons. It may happen because of humidity, resin temperature, and faulty mould texture. If you want to avoid dull epoxy, avoid working in a place that has high humidity. Also, make sure the mould is clean and completely dry before sanding.
If sanding epoxy, how do I make it glossy?
Once your epoxy resin is cured, it does not look glossy. If you want to make a faded or hazy epoxy resin shiny and high gloss finish, buffer it with polishing compounds. For larger surfaces, use buffering wheels. Apply the polish rubbing compound in a circular motion in small parts to avoid marking.
What you should know about polishing
For polishing an epoxy resin, first, you need the surface to be smooth and even. For that, use sandpapers of different grits. If the epoxy surface has too many imperfections, start polishing with low grit sandpapers. But if it is comparatively smooth and has fewer imperfections, use high grit sandpapers to clean the surface.
The Sanding Process in between epoxy applications
While crafting with epoxy resin, you apply layers of resin. However, bugs, hair, dirt, or any other imperfections can get into the epoxy during the process. It is better to get rid of these impurities before applying another layer of epoxy resin.
Sand the defected layer of epoxy resin to take care of the issues and then apply another coat of polish. After that, cover the layer with a dust cover to avoid getting dirty again. By doing so, you will get a clean and perfectly cured epoxy resin mould.
For Bigger Areas, Manual Vs. Machine Polishing?
If you plan to polish or buffer a larger area, like an epoxy table or floor, you should choose a buffer machine with a handle. This allows you to span a large area fast and polish it evenly.
However, these buffer machines may not reach corners or narrow areas. In that case, you can use a cloth to apply polish to those places. When you polish manually, you can polish specific areas to your liking. So, a combination of manual and Machine polishing can give you the best result.
Epoxy resin is rugged and durable, but it does not mean you can handle it roughly. You may want to fix your scratched or faded patio but do not have experience polishing epoxy before. Instead of taking a risk in polishing the epoxy on your own, it is better to hire professional polishers to do the job. They have all the machines and compounds to fix different problems,
If you still want to take matters into your hands, you can hire buffering machines from companies that lend them.
Here are some examples of such companies:
United States
Europe
New Zealand
Australia
Polishing Outdoor Epoxy Surfaces Tips & Tricks
Epoxy is an excellent choice for making floors both indoors and outdoors. The versatility of epoxy resin surfaces makes them suitable for any landscape. Epoxy tiles come in various colours and are incredibly durable. Therefore, they have become famous for outdoor uses. You may use epoxy flooring or tiles for building porches, steps, sidewalks, pool decks, entrances, and driveways.
Here are some tips on polishing outdoor epoxy surfaces:
- Choose a polishing compound that has UV ray protective properties.
- If you have to sand down the epoxy resin, do it in less humid conditions to avoid dulling the surface.
- Work on smaller sections to make sure the polishing is done evenly.
- After polishing, let the epoxy surface dry to see the effect. Do not leave the site until your project gets dry.
- Epoxy floorings look nice and shiny when they are new. Over time, they fade. But to maintain the lustre for years, clean the floor at least once a year with hot water and mild soap.
- If the outdoor flooring gets stained by engine oil or other substances, take immediate action. Use a combination of water and ammonia to clean the stain gently. Then use a hard-foamed mop to rub the stain off from the floor.
- Epoxy resin can be toxic if you work with it regularly. Constant exposure can cause many side effects. Put on appropriate protective gear to ensure your safety.
The best way to use kitchen scrubbers is for tougher stains like rust. But do not rub too firmly. It can fade the colour of your epoxy. Focus only on the stains and use circular movements.
The Best Suppliers and Manufacturers of Polishing Kits in your Area of the World
Here are some suppliers and manufacturers of polishing kits around the world:
Europe
United States
● OTEC
New Zealand
● Norski
Australia
● FloorEx
Resin Polishing Compound Substitutes You May Produce At Home
You may have made an epoxy resin craft but found out you have no polishing compound left. In that case, you can try one of the incredible solutions for shining your teeth to shine epoxy too with toothpaste.
Yes, toothpaste can often work as a replacement for a polishing compound. You can use it just like any other polishing compound paste. Apply toothpaste on the buffer machine or directly on the epoxy. Then work gently to get your desired shine. Do not rub too fast, as heat can damage the epoxy surface.
You could also try making a paste from charcoal & fire pit ash, creating an abrasive paste to rough polish areas.
Final Thoughts On The Finest Epoxy Resin Polishing Product.
Polishing epoxy resin can make your craft look amazing. To have the best glossy effect, you must choose the exemplary polishing compounds, tools, and techniques. The process is affordable and accessible. You can simply polish your epoxy crafts and small objects with a microfiber cloth with your hand or a power drill with a polishing attachment for quick work. You can also hire a large buff machine from a company.
Sources of Information
Arnold, J. (2021, May 17). How to Polish Epoxy Resin. Wood Epoxy World. Retrieved March 13, 2022, from https://woodepoxyworld.com/how-to-polish-epoxy-resin/
Swift, K. (2022, January 4). How to Polish Resin – Pro Secrets Revealed. Resin Obsession. Retrieved March 13, 2022, from https://www.resinobsession.com
Somnea, G. (2021, November 17). The Best Polishing Compound For Epoxy Resin. ROXY EPOXY. Retrieved March 13, 2022, from https://roxyepoxy.com
A. (2021, December 15). Best Polish for Epoxy Resin (Reviews and Buying Guide). HomeNeedz. Retrieved March 13, 2022, from https://myhomeneedthis.com/best-polish-for-epoxy-resin/
A. (2021a, March 21). How to Polish Resin – Step by Step Tutorial for Polishing Epoxy Resin. Acrylgiessen.Com – Creative Magazine. Retrieved March 13, 2022, from https://acrylgiessen.com/
Incredible Solutions. (n.d.). Premium Polishing Compound and Cleaner Kit Formulated for Epoxy Resin and High Gloss Finishes. Retrieved March 13, 2022, from https://incrediblesolutionsonline.com/
Easy Composites Ltd. (n.d.). TOP FINISH 2 Ultra High Gloss Polishing Compound for Epoxy; 100g, 500g and 1kg – GlassCast. Https://Www.Glasscastresin.Com. Retrieved March 13, 2022, from https://www.glasscastresin.com/
How to Polish Epoxy Resin – Epoxy Countertop DIY. (n.d.). Epoxy Countertop DIY. Retrieved March 13, 2022, from https://epoxycountertopdiy.com/how-to-polish-epoxy-resin/
After reading your post, I will certainly begin to consider the Epoxy Type. I did not know it was so important. I started using less abrasive liquid polishes. But now I have moved to a bit more abrasive polishing. But I did this without realizing I was following your suggestion. The quality of the product is also important and I am happy with the ones I have been using so far.
Able, you’ve done a fantastic job. Since it indicates that my article will be helpful for beginners and people who want to polish an epoxy resin floor or surfaces, You are undoubtedly a proponent of do-it-yourself projects. Therefore I much value your thoughts.
However, polishing epoxy resin is not always straightforward. As noted in the article, you should apply a polishing compound capable of penetrating sanded resin after the surface has been sanded or wet sanded to a high grit (typically up to 3000). This is an excellent starting point for someone who never has polished epoxy before.
Emmanuel Emmato, thank you very much for your kind words. I couldn’t agree more that it’s a lengthy process to regain the gloss.
You just gave me an idea of how to polish my floor. I want to bring a light shine with a mild reflection to my floor without overdoing it too much. Which type of polish would you recommend for beginners? If I am doing a floor it would be easier to use a machine, but if I am not experienced with the machine would it be better to use a little elbow grease to buff the desired results into the floor?
Thank you very much, Alex. It is well worth the effort to polish the floor, and the compliments and praise you receive from visitors will be overwhelming. I would recommend Turtle Wax, which is also good for the car, but the one I’ve used in the past when commercial cleaning was TOP FINISH, which has improved over the years since I was cleaning and is the best for epoxy. If you’re going to use your elbow grease, work in batches and tackle one corner at a time.