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Sanding guide
It is extremely important to note that desired finishes can only be reached by proven techniques in sanding, buffing, and polishing. If these procedures and techniques are not understood, an unwanted finish may occur. However, there is good news. All finishes can be refinished to the desired result with the right techniques and tools. The finish is the sole responsibility of the fabricator or end user.
There are different types and grits of sandpaper. To understand more about sandpaper and to see a conversion chart for P-Grade sandpaper to micron sandpaper, the following web site maybe helpful http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandpaper
To achieve a desired finish, we recommend using the highest numbered/finest grit sandpaper possible that will still work in sanding the surface. Using sandpaper that is too coarse at the beginning will cause scratches to be made by the sandpaper that will later have to be sanded out with finer grit sandpaper. If deep scratches are present, starting with 100-grit sandpaper may be suitable. If no scratches are present, starting with 220-grit sandpaper usually works. Wet sanding is preferred if no vacuum system is employed to keep dust out of the work environment. Sanding must be completed in steps. Generally increasing sandpaper grits by no more than 100 grit is an adequate increase for each sanding step. Depending on the type of sandpaper, the type of sander, and other factors, usually sanding for 1 to 2 minutes per square foot is sufficient for each sandpaper grit used. Changing sanding directions from left to right, to up and down, to diagonally, may lead to better results. Each sanding step must be thoroughly completed. No sanding steps should be skipped or left partially completed. Use increasingly finer grit wet/dry sandpaper in steps until the desired finish is achieved.
Matte finish: A matte finish is recommended in most applications. This finish shows scratches the least. To achieve a matte finish we recommend these sanding steps: 120-grit, 220-grit, 320-grit, and then finish with a maroon abrasive pad. This is the lowest recommended finish. If you are using a darker color it may be appropriate to finish the top higher to bring out the color.
Satin finish: A satin finish may be harder to maintain than a matte finish. This finish may be desirable to enhance darker colors. To achieve a satin finish we recommend these sanding steps: 120-grit, 220-grit, 320-grit, maroon abrasive pad, and then finish with a gray abrasive pad.
Semi-gloss & Gloss finishes: These finishes generally require additional work and equipment to complete. Sanding, buffing, and polishing techniques are extremely important to attain these finishes. A polishing compound will most likely be required to get these finishes. Generally careful attention to sanding in steps of 100 grit increases should be used. To achieve a semi gloss & gloss finish we recommend these sanding steps: 120-grit, 220-grit, 320-grit, maroon abrasive pad, gray abrasive pad, and to finish polish with blue Sattex polishing compound.
Products that bring out the color of the material without applying higher finishes are not permanent. Oils/waxes sit on the top of the surface, but do not change the underlying finish. If you desire a high finished look that will last there is no substitute for sanding and polishing.
This information is believed to be reliable but should not be interpreted as a warranty for which Diamond Surfaces USA assumes legal responsibility. The user must verify and test the suitability of any information or products for his or her specific application. Merchantability or fitness or usage for a particular purpose is not guaranteed.
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