How to Polish a Surfboard
When polishing a surfboard, especially a pre-owned or aged surfboard, start by sanding and buffing the entire surface to remove any imperfections. If your surfboard is in scrape- and ding-free condition, you can proceed directly to applying the polish.
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Things You'll Need
- Wet/dry sandpaper in various grits
- Surfboard polish compound
- Buffing compound
- Buffer
- Power sander
- Paintbrush
- Microfiber cloth
- Wire brush (optional)
Instructions
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1
Remove irregularities by wet sanding the surfboard's surface with a power sander and 320 grit wet-dry paper. Brush buildup off with a wire brush or cloth rag.
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2
Wet-sand by hand using 400-grit sandpaper in a top-to-bottom and bottom-to-top motion -- not side to side or in circles. Gradually move up to 600-, 800-, 1,000- and 1,500-grit, and optional 2,000-grit.
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3
Remove sanding marks with an electric buffer pad and buffing compound. Apply compound in sections and spread around liquid until dry -- buff the entire surface once all sections are complete, and then wipe with a microfiber cloth to remove any residue.
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4
Apply small amounts of surfboard polish to sections of the surface using a paintbrush -- spread evenly and complete one section at a time. Use a polishing pad all over once the polish is dry. Wipe with clean microfiber cloth.
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Apply a coat of finishing polish if you want your board extra shiny. Finishing polish will remove fine scratches and buff marks. Wipe with clean microfiber cloth.
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Tips & Warnings
Take your time and sand thoroughly because the polishing stage will not remove minor irregularities in your surfboard.
Keep the buffing pad in constant motion to avoid a buildup of heat.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
