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Print ArticleStep 1. Remove all items from the surface (if continuing the honing process described above, proceed to step 5). Be careful not to slide heavy pieces across the surface since this can cause irreversible damage.
Step 2. Protect all wall surfaces by covering with plastic or paper sheeting. Tape plastic/paper to wall surface using only low-contact masking tape. Protect walls to a height of at least 24 inches. If dealing with a sensitive wall surface such as silk wallpaper or decorative painting, test the tape to make sure it does not damage these surfaces. Adjacent carpeting should be pulled back or covered. Wood flooring and other water sensitive material should also be covered.
Step 3. Wipe the entire surface with a soft cloth to remove loose debris.
Step 4. If the surface has a heavy application of waxes or other coatings, these will need to be removed before polishing. Use a stripper designed to remove the coating and follow the manufacturer's directions for procedures.
Step 5. Place a polishing pad under the hand buffer. Most often it will be a white or tan pad (refer to the polishing powder's set of instructions for pad recommendations). Place approximately one teaspoon of polishing powder under the polishing pad. Add a little water and begin working the machine in a slow back and forth motion. Add only enough water so the circular pattern left by the slurry is visible.
Step 6. Continue to work the powder slurry until entirely dry. Do not work dry for very long otherwise you will melt the polymer and cause the area to turn white or burn. If the desired polish is not achieved, add more powder, rewet and start over again. You may need to repeat the above procedures several times to get the desired polish. Polishing takes patience and practice.
Step 7. Once the surface is polished, rinse the entire area again. Place a clean white pad on your machine and buff any remaining film or residue.
Crystallization Polishing Process
The crystallization process was developed for the polishing of marble flooring. However, I have found that, in some cases. it can also be used to place a shine on engineered stone.
Before attempting the crystallization procedure make sure the surface is dry.
Step 1. Refer to steps 1-4 in "Polishing Only."
Step 2. If the surface is extremely soiled it will be necessary to use a neutral cleaner. Follow the directions on the neutral cleaner.
Step 3. If the surface has been coated with waxes, these will need to be stripped before proceeding.
