How to Sand Stone Surfaces for Polishing & Restoration

Natural stone surfaces like marble, granite, and concrete countertops can lose their shine over time. Scratches, etching, or dull spots often require sanding to restore smoothness and prepare for polishing. With the correct grit sequence, you can bring back the stone’s natural beauty.

Why Sand Stone?

Stone is porous and prone to scratches and stains. Sanding removes imperfections, levels uneven spots, and creates a smooth base for polishing or sealing. Without sanding, polishing compounds can’t achieve full clarity.

Tools You’ll Need

• Orbital sander or hand sanding block
• Water source for wet sanding
• Microfiber towels
• Stone-safe polishing compound
• Silicon carbide wet/dry sandpaper sheets

Best Grit Sequence for Stone Sanding

• 400 grit: Initial smoothing of scratches and dull areas.
• 800 grit: Refining and preparing for polish.
• 1200 grit: Enhancing clarity and smoothness.
• 2000 grit: Pre-polish stage for glossy finish.
• 3000 grit: Ultra-fine sanding for mirror-like shine.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Stone Surfaces

1. Start with 400 grit. Wet sand using 400 grit (50-pack) to remove scratches and stains.
2. Smooth with 800 grit. Use 800 grit (25-pack) for refining the surface.
3. Refine with 1200 grit. Switch to 1200 grit (25-pack) for semi-clear finish.
4. Polish with 2000 grit. Sand with 2000 grit (100-pack) before applying polishing compounds.
5. Finish with 3000 grit. Use 3000 grit (50-pack) for a mirror-like finish.
6. Clean and polish. Rinse thoroughly and buff with a stone-safe polish.

Special Cases

For concrete countertops, start with 220 grit if the surface is rough. For softer stones like marble, avoid pressing too hard to prevent etching.

Pro Tips

• Always wet sand stone to prevent clogging and dust hazards.
• Work in overlapping passes for consistent results.
• Replace sandpaper often—stone wears it down quickly.

Aftercare

• Seal stone after sanding to protect against stains.
• Use pH-neutral cleaners to maintain shine.
• Reapply sealer annually for best protection.

FAQs

• Can I sand granite? Yes, but it requires patience and progression through all grits for a polished finish.
• Will sanding remove deep stains? Yes, sanding can remove surface stains, but sealing afterward is essential.

Watch & Learn

Sanding stone surfaces restores their natural beauty and prepares them for long-lasting polish. Explore our stone sanding collection to get the right grits for your project.