Without the right polishing pad, you won’t get far. Whether you are polishing epoxy, polyester, gelcoat or paint, a good polishing pad is essential for a smooth finish. But which pad should you use for which job? In this article, we explain the types of polishing pads and how to choose the right one for your application.
A polishing pad (also called a polishing sponge or polishing disc) is a disc that attaches to a polishing machine. You use it with a polishing compound for:
Pads differ in material, hardness and texture, which together with the polishing compound determine the final result.
Polishing pads are available in different types. At Polyestershoppen, you will mainly find foam pads, wool pads, and microfibre pads.
Foam pads are the most versatile and commonly used polishing pads. They come in different densities (hard/soft) and colours, with the colour usually indicating the hardness (depending on the brand).
Ideal for applying wax or high-gloss polish, leaving a hologram-free finish.
Suitable for light scratches, swirls and dull areas. Most commonly used for general polishing.
Designed to remove heavy defects like oxidation, deep scratches or weathered surfaces.
Foam pads are durable, easy to clean, and suitable for almost all surfaces, from paint to epoxy.
Wool polishing pads are made from real or synthetic wool fibres attached to a backing (usually foam or velcro). They have very high cutting power, making a wool pad strong and fast-working. Ideal for removing deep scratches or heavy oxidation.
These polishing pads combine a soft foam core with a microfibre top layer. This provides both cutting power and a fine finish. Microfibre pads are suitable for one-step polishers or for correcting light to medium imperfections.
Use this handy selection table to choose the right polishing pad for your application:
| Application | Type of polish | Recommended pad | Result |
|
Weathered gelcoat, deep scratches |
Coarse polish (cutting) |
Wool pad or hard foam pad |
Strong correction, matte finish |
|
Light scratches, dull spots |
Medium polish (polishing) |
Medium foam pad or microfibre pad |
Gloss restoration, minor correction |
|
High-gloss finish, applying wax |
Fine polish (finishing) |
Soft foam pad |
Hologram-free, deep gloss |
Polishing pads are available in various diameters, suitable for the type of work and polishing machine:
| Diameter | Use |
| Ø75 mm |
Small surfaces, edges, corners, epoxy jewellery |
| Ø125-150 mm |
Most common size for boats, cars, furniture, floors |
| Ø180 mm and larger |
Large surfaces, such as roofs, floors or hulls of ships |
Follow these steps to use your polishing pad correctly:
Do not press too hard; let the machine do the work. Excessive pressure can overheat the pad and damage it. If a scratch or paint defect doesn’t come out, use a heavier pad and compound.
Wipe the surface with a clean microfibre cloth and repeat the steps if necessary. Always clean the pad thoroughly after polishing.
During polishing:
After polishing:
At Polyestershoppen, you’ll find polishes and polishing pads from top brands suitable for professional and hobby use:
For each brand, the polish is matched to specific pad types. Preferably, use the pad and polish from the same brand, or ask us for advice.
After reading this article, if you still have questions about polishing or choosing the right pad for your project, feel free to contact our specialists for personalised advice!
Do you have a specific question? Call one of our specialists for free advice +3185 0220090
