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.

Things You'll Need

  • Wet/dry sandpaper in various grits
  • Surfboard polish compound
  • Buffing compound
  • Buffer
  • Power sander
  • Paintbrush
  • Microfiber cloth
  • Wire brush (optional)
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Instructions

    • 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.

    • 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.

    • 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.

    • 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.

    • 5

      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.