Wet Vs Dry Polishing Pads

Wet Vs Dry Polishing Pads: Which one is right for you?

Often a source of debate in the stone fabricating industry, is which is best, wet or dry polishing.

At Stonegate we think there is a place for both techniques in your business. Picking which method to use will largely depend on the task in-hand and the location where the work is to be carried out.

Both wet and dry processes will predominantly use a multi pad approach. Each pad features a number to determine how fine the grit is.

You would then start from the lowest grit and work your way to the highest grit to achieve the optimum shine. Edge polishing machines will quicken up this process and work like a production line, with the slab passing through each polishing step.

These machines will use wet polishing pads.

 

wet vs dry polishing pads

So if you are wondering, what kind of polishing pad is right for you, take a look at our pros and cons list for wet and dry polishing to see which kit is right for your job.

Pro’s

Con’s

Dry Polishing Pads

  • It is easier to see the impact you are making on the stone, as you do not need to dry the stone.
  • You can dry polish almost anywhere, including in the customers home.
  • Dry polishing creates a lot of dust in the air which can be harmful to you. Masks/air filters are always recommended.
  • The pads heat up faster which wears the pad away quicker

Wet Polishing Pads

  • Keeps the stone cool allowing for a better and more consistent shine on multiple surfaces.
  • Pads tend to last longer than dry pads.
  • Traps dust particles, which makes the process safer for the fabricator.
  • Will use a lot of water which can be considered wasteful.
  • Produces water and sludge spray which makes it inappropriate to carry out on the job. Wet polishing is usually completed in the workshop wearing waterproofs.
  • Pads tend to be more expensiv

 

wet polishing pad

Wet polishing pads are often credited with giving an overall better shine, however with the dry pad technology catching up, there isn’t an awful lot difference. Location will most likely be the main factor in choosing your equipment.

Wet polishing is often restricted to fabricators workshops due to the amount of slurry it produces, as this can often stain surroundings, with dry polishing being the favourite for on the job polishing.

Personal preference will play a huge part, with many fabricators ready to declare their own method the best. Whichever method you pick, ensure to kit yourself out in the required PPE to protect yourself from the dangers of stone dust or the wet slurry.