Sanding Resin Countertops: Smooth, Durable, and Glossy Surfaces

Resin countertops are stylish, durable, and customizable, but to achieve that perfect glossy surface, sanding is essential. Whether you’re finishing a new pour or restoring an older countertop, sanding ensures smoothness and clarity before polishing or sealing. This guide explains the grit sequence and techniques for sanding resin countertops.

Why Sand Resin Countertops?

Resin surfaces often cure with imperfections like air bubbles, ripples, or uneven texture. Sanding removes these flaws and prepares the countertop for polishing, giving you a durable, mirror-like finish. Skipping sanding leaves resin dull and vulnerable to scratches.

Tools You’ll Need

• Wet/dry sandpaper sheets (120–3000 grit)
• Orbital sander or sanding block
• Spray bottle with water
• Polishing compound
• Microfiber cloths
• Protective mask and gloves

Recommended Grit Sequence

• 120 grit: Flatten uneven spots and remove drips.
• 400 grit: Smooth the surface after leveling.
• 800 grit: Refine scratches for clarity.
• 1500 grit: Prepare for high-gloss polishing.
• 3000 grit: Achieve mirror-like shine.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Resin Countertops

1. Clean the surface. Remove dust and debris with a damp cloth.
2. Level with 120 grit. Use 120 grit (25-pack) wet/dry sheets for rough spots and drips.
3. Smooth with 400 grit. Switch to 400 grit (50-pack) to even the surface.
4. Refine with 800 grit. Sand with water until scratches are minimized.
5. Polish with 1500 grit. Use light pressure for semi-clear shine.
6. Finish with 3000 grit. Use 3000 grit (100-pack) for flawless gloss.
7. Buff and seal. Apply polishing compound and optional sealant for protection.

Special Cases

For countertops with embedded designs or pigments, sand gently to avoid cutting into decorative layers. For large surfaces, use an orbital sander for consistency but keep the surface wet to avoid overheating.

Pro Tips

• Always wet sand resin to reduce clogging and keep surfaces cool.
• Sand in overlapping circles for even coverage.
• Wipe clean between grits to check progress.

Aftercare

• Clean countertops with non-abrasive cleaners only.
• Reapply polishing compound every few months to maintain shine.
• Protect with mats and cutting boards to avoid scratches.

FAQs

• Can I dry sand resin countertops? Not recommended—always wet sand for safety and clarity.
• Do I need polishing compound? Yes, it enhances clarity and depth after sanding.
• Will scratches come back? With proper aftercare, polished resin countertops stay glossy for years.

Watch & Learn

Sanding resin countertops brings out their true beauty and durability. Stock up on wet/dry sandpaper sheets—packs of 25, 50, and 100 available across all grits. Shop resin countertop sanding sheets here.