Final Polishing Sequence: Matching Compounds, Pads, and Grit for Mirror Depth (1500–3000 Grit Workflow)

Perfect gloss doesn’t happen by accident — it’s the result of a precise polishing sequence that bridges sanding micro-scratches into optical clarity. Choosing the right combination of compounds, pads, and final grits ensures the finish reaches true mirror depth without swirl haze or holograms.

Why Sequencing Matters

Each polishing stage replaces deep scratches with progressively finer ones. Skipping a grit or using mismatched compounds leaves hidden haze under strong light. Aligning pad type, compound cut, and sanding grit creates a smooth transition from matte to mirror.

Recommended Tools

• Dual-action or rotary buffer with variable speed.
• Cutting, polishing, and finishing compounds matched to grit.
• Foam and microfiber pads in light, medium, and soft density.
• Wet/dry sandpaper (1500–3000 grit).
• Raking and diffuse light for inspection.

Typical Grit-to-Compound Pairing

• 1500 grit → Heavy-cut compound on firm foam pad.
• 2000 grit → Medium polish on orange or white foam pad.
• 3000 grit → Finishing glaze or jeweling compound on ultra-soft pad.

Step-by-Step: From Sanded Surface to Mirror Reflection

1. Start with leveled clear. Wet-sand through 1500 → 3000 grits; surface should appear uniformly matte.
2. Apply heavy-cut compound. Work 2×2 ft sections at low speed (1000–1200 RPM) until haze clears. Wipe clean with microfiber.
3. Switch to medium polish. Replace pad, reduce speed slightly, and refine reflection. Overlap passes by 50 % to remove micro haze.
4. Inspect under raking light. If faint swirls remain, repeat with lighter pressure and smaller pad area.
5. Finish with glaze or ultra-fine compound. Use soft pad at low RPM for final gloss depth; avoid over-buffing edges.
6. Seal or wax. After 24 h cure, apply protective layer to lock in clarity and reduce oxidation.

Special Cases

Hard clears (polyurethane, ceramic) may need microfiber pads for extra cut; soft lacquers prefer foam only to prevent micro-marring. For dark colors, finish under warm LED lighting — cool white hides fine holograms that sunlight later reveals.

Pro Tips

• Keep pads clean — residue hardens and scratches like coarse grit.
• Mark each pad per compound to avoid cross-contamination.
• Use slow pad priming: one mist of detail spray keeps compound spread even.

Aftercare

• Wash polished panels only with pH-neutral shampoo for first week.
• Rebuff lightly every six months to maintain mirror depth.
• Store compounds sealed and out of sun — heat alters cutting behavior.

FAQs

• Why does gloss fade overnight? Residual oils evaporate; re-buff with soft pad and finishing polish after full cure.
• Do microfiber pads cut faster? Yes, but they run hotter — control speed to avoid holograms.
• How long should each stage last? Around 2–3 min per section — stop when residue turns clear, not dry.

Watch & Learn

Finish like a pro: stock fine, super-fine, and ultra-fine 25-sheet packs — perfectly matched to heavy-cut, medium, and finishing compounds for true mirror-depth polishing.