Sanding Corian and Solid Surface Countertops: Restoring a Smooth, Matte or Gloss Finish

Corian and other solid surface countertops are durable and beautiful, but scratches, dull spots, or stains can appear over time. Fortunately, sanding restores their luster—whether you want a soft matte look or a high-gloss finish. This guide explains the correct grit sequence and technique for refreshing or refinishing solid surface materials safely.

Why Sanding Solid Surfaces Works

Unlike laminate, Corian and similar composites have color and texture that run all the way through. That means you can sand away surface damage without harming the pattern. The right sanding sequence removes scratches, smooths joints, and restores an even sheen that matches the rest of your countertop.

Recommended Tools

• 9×11-inch silicon carbide wet/dry sandpaper sheets.
• Random-orbit sander with soft backing pad.
• Clean water for wet sanding.
• Microfiber towels and spray bottle.
• Solid-surface polishing compound (optional).

Grit Sequence

• 400 grit: Removing scratches, stains, and dull areas.
• 800 grit: Refining texture for a uniform matte sheen.
• 1500 grit: Final polishing for semi-gloss or high-gloss finish.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Corian or Solid Surface Countertops

1. Clean thoroughly. Wash the surface with mild detergent to remove grease and residue. Dry with a lint-free cloth before sanding.
2. Initial sanding. Use 400 Grit (25-pack) wet/dry paper with water as lubricant. Sand in circular motions, keeping the surface evenly wet to prevent scratches or heat buildup.
3. Intermediate refinement. Switch to 800 Grit (50-pack) to smooth the surface and blend areas of different sheen. Work lightly and keep water flowing to flush away residue.
4. Final polish. Use 1500 Grit (100-pack) to bring out a soft satin or semi-gloss finish. For a mirror shine, follow up with a polishing compound on a clean pad.
5. Rinse and inspect. Wipe the countertop dry and inspect under bright light. Re-sand dull areas if necessary, always finishing in overlapping circular passes.
6. Optional buffing. Apply solid surface polish using a microfiber pad for a glossy, fingerprint-resistant finish.

Special Cases

For deep scratches or burn marks, start with 240 grit, then progress through 400, 800, and 1500. On matte finishes, you can stop at 800 grit for a natural, low-sheen look that hides future wear better.

Pro Tips

• Always sand wet to avoid overheating the material.
• Use silicon carbide sandpaper—it maintains consistent cutting on hard composite surfaces.
• Sand entire sections, not just spots, to keep sheen consistent.
• Rinse and dry frequently to check your progress.

Aftercare

• Clean regularly with mild soap and a damp cloth.
• Use cutting boards and trivets to prevent new scratches or heat damage.
• Re-sand worn areas every few years to maintain the finish.

FAQs

• Can I sand out deep burns? Yes—start with coarser 240 grit, but stop once the damage is gone to avoid uneven thickness.
• Do I need a machine sander? Not for small areas—hand sanding with a block works well for spot repairs.
• Can I use wood sandpaper? Only if it’s silicon carbide; other abrasives may dull quickly on composite materials.

Watch & Learn

For composite and countertop refinishing, use eQualle’s ultra-fine sanding collection. Silicon carbide sheets in 400–1500 grits provide smooth, clog-free performance for Corian, solid surface, and resin-based materials.

Conclusion: The 400–800–1500 grit wet-sanding sequence restores Corian and solid surface countertops to like-new condition. With consistent motion, clean abrasives, and gentle polishing, you’ll achieve a flawless matte or glossy finish that resists stains and stays beautiful for years.