Glass sanding and polishing

Did you know that there is a possibility to restore and polish glass? Instead of replacing the damaged glass with a new and expensive one, you can recondition the glass with Mirka glass sanding solution. This will save both time and money. Mirka has a unique total solution for the sanding of several types of glass. The clear step-by-step process how to sand glass invented by Mirka is easy to follow all the way from cleaning, to sanding, to polishing.

Mirka's sanding and polishing solution for refurbishing glass can be used within many industries, e.g., architectural, automotive and marine sectors. It is suitable for many different glass surfaces such as building facades, interior doors and stairs as well as windows on yachts, trains and other vehicles.

The smart solution

Recommendations on How to Sand Glass

Determining the correct grit can be challenging, as it depends on how deep the scratch is. Start sanding with a fine grit, eg. 320 grit, or just polish out the scratch. If the fine grit does not sand enough, use the next coarser grit. This way, you can avoid additional steps when removing the scratches.

The fewer steps necessary to get the job done, the better. Otherwise, there is a risk of optical refraction. The polishing step takes longer than the sanding steps.

Tips for best results

Keep machine flat

When sanding and polishing, keep the machine flat to surface, this will give a better and smoother finish.
Clean in between steps

Clean in between the steps to avoid dust from previous steps causing additional scratches.
Protect yourself

Always use a dust protection mask. Please check local legislation about concentrations known to be hazardous.

Before you start

More Tips for best results

Always start the process by cleaning the surface using window cleaning liquid. Clean the window with e.g., IPA (Isopropanol) and glass cleaner. We recommend you to use both, since they remove different kind of dirt or grease.
Use foam tape to limit splashing.
Clean the surface in between every step to remove the dust from the previous step and avoid the dust creating any scratches.
When using the Mirka Deros RS 600, or other polisher, set it to its lowest speed, 1100 rpm. Keeping the speed low helps to control surface temperature
Throughout the entire process, do not touch the glass with bare fingers, as transferred grease will affect the result and in worst case fingerprints will be visible. Use gloves!
Take sufficient time over each sanding step, it is all about giving each step the time it needs.

RS 600: sander & polisher in 1

The Mirka DEROS RS 600 is a powerful sander and polisher in one, making it ideal for demanding glass sanding and polishing work. Its 750W brushless motor and adjustable 700–2500 RPM speed range provide the strength to remove deep scratches and the control to achieve flawless clarity. Weighing just 1.8 kg, the RS 600 is lightweight and ergonomic, designed for easy handling with minimal fatigue. Low vibration, low noise, and advanced dust extraction make it comfortable and efficient to use, while its durable carry case keeps the tool protected and ready for every job.

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Abranet SIC NS or Abralon?

Mirka Abrasives for Glass Sanding

Both Abranet SIC NS and Abralon use Silicon Carbide grains, which is the optimal grain when sanding glass. They contain no stearate coating, which is unnecessary for sanding glass.

If you have deep scratches or you are sanding a large area, start with Abranet SIC NS.

For superficial scratches, we recommend starting with Abralon. Abranet gives a closer feeling to sanding surface and a more aggressive sanding result.

Abralon

Abralon is a versatile sanding disc designed for use on both smooth and contoured surfaces. Its innovative flexible structure minimises the possibility of pressure marks while enabling the creation of a smooth sanding pattern on sloped surfaces and edges.
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Abralon SIC NS

Abranet SIC NS is a specialty abrasive that uses silicon carbide cutting grains formulated completely without the use of stearate. It has been developed especially for use with glass and is also perfectly suited for use with clear coats, primers, carbon fibre and other composites.
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A better choice for you and the environment

Water-Based Polishes

All polishes that Mirka produces are water-based and produced in Finland. There are many benefits of choosing a water-based polishing compound.

Effective permanent removal of scratches - Water-based compounds remove scratches permanently. Solvent-based compounds can lose gloss after cleaning the surface with a degreaser and in some cases, they may only temporarily hide the scratches.
Safer for the operator - No hazardous chemicals
Sustainable - Water-based polishes are better for the environment and do not contain benzene or similar hazardous chemicals.

Glass sanding & polishing process

This process is as a guide only. The process may be different depending on the type of scratch and an individual's preferences.
Step 1 - Clean & inspect

Clean and inspect the damaged area.
Step 2 - Sand with SIC NS

Use Abranet SIC NS. Select the finest grit disc that will effectively remove the scratch. (eg. 150 grit)
Hold the sander flat on the glass and sand until the scratch is removed.
Check the temperature does not exceed 70°c throughout the process.
Continue the sanding process using gradually finer discs ending at 400 grit.
Step 3 - Sand with Abralon

Start with Abralon 500 grit and expand the repair area to create an effective blend. Ensure to hold the sander flat to the glass.
Work on a small area at a time as Abralon discs will only start cutting when the glass has warmed up.
The area will become cloudier as the scratches become finer.
You will end this process around 1000 grit.
Step 4 - Polishing

Dampen the Abralon 1000 grit. Focus on the edges to soften and blend the repair.
Inspect the area to ensure all scratches have been removed.
Switch to the Felt Polishing Pad and apply Polarshine E3.
Polish at low speed between 1100-1500 rpm working on a small area at a time as the polish will start cutting once the glass has warmed up. The polishing pad will grip once the temperature is reached.
Step 5 - Finishing

Sand with Abralon 1000 grit and Rotary Polisher. Wipe the surface clean.
Repeat the polishing stage until full clarity is restored to the glass.

Glass Deep Scratch Removal Process with DEROS RS 600

This process may differ depending on the depth of the glass scratches.
Download Process
Step 1 - Clean & inspect

Clean and inspect the glass before sanding.
Step 2 - Sand with Abranet SIC NS
1. Begin by sanding the surface with the DEROS RS 600 sander with an Abranet SIC NS 320 grit, then wipe the area clean.
2. Next, continue the process with a finer Abranet SIC NS 400 grit and wipe the surface clean once again.
Step 3 - Sand with Abralon
1. Start by sanding with the DEROS RS 600 sander with an Abralon 500 grit, using water for lubrication, then wipe the surface clean.
2. Continue by sanding with an Abralon 600 grit again with water, and finish by wiping the surface thoroughly clean.
Step 4 - Polish
1. Inspect the area carefully to ensure all scratches have been fully removed.
2. Once the surface is ready, switch to the White Felt Polishing Pad, apply Polarshine E3, and begin polishing for a refined finish.
Step 5 - Finish & clean

Finish the process by cleaning the area with a clean cloth.

Acid etched graffiti Removal Process

The process may vary depending on the severity of the acid etched graffiti.
Download Process
Step 1 - Clean & inspect

Clean and inspect the glass before sanding.
Step 2 - Sand with Abranet SIC NS
1. Begin by sanding the surface with the DEROS RS 600 sander with an Abranet SIC NS 150 grit, then wipe the area clean.
2. Next, continue the process with an Abranet SIC NS 240 grit and wipe the surface clean once again.
3. Finish this step with a finer Abranet SIC NS 320 grit and then wipe the area clean for the next step.
Step 3 - Sand with Abralon
1. Start by sanding with the DEROS RS 600 sander with an Abralon 500 grit, using water for lubrication, then wipe the surface clean.
2. Continue by sanding with an Abralon 600 grit again with water, and finish by wiping the surface thoroughly clean.
Step 4 - Polish
1. Inspect the area carefully to ensure all graffiti have been fully removed.
2. Once the surface is ready, switch to the White Felt Polishing Pad, apply Polarshine E3, and begin polishing for a refined finish.
Step 5 - Finish & clean

Finish the process by cleaning the area with a clean cloth.