A solid surface sink can add beauty and functionality to your kitchen or bathroom. Made from materials like acrylic or polyester resin, solid surface sinks are durable, stylish, and easy to clean. However, even high-quality solid surface sinks can develop stains, scratches, and other damage over time. Restoring a worn solid surface sink to its former glory takes a bit of effort, but yields big rewards in upgraded aesthetics and utility. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the necessary steps to renew and refresh your solid surface sink.
Supplies Needed for Restoration
Restoring a solid surface sink requires gathering the right supplies beforehand. With these supplies on hand, you’ll be prepared to restore the beauty and function of your sink.
- Mild abrasive cleanser or soft scrub cleanser
- Non-abrasive sponge or soft cloth
- Fine and ultra-fine grit wet/dry sandpaper (320, 400, 600, 1500 grit)
- Orbital sander (optional for sinks with extensive damage)
- Denatured alcohol
- Acetone
- Protective equipment like gloves, goggles, and mask
- Soft buffing wheel or microfiber cloths
- Polishing compound
- Sealant designed for solid surface materials
- Clean water
- Paper towels
- Painter’s tape (for protecting faucets and edges)
Cleaning a Solid Surface Sink
Thorough cleaning lays the groundwork for effective restoration. Follow these steps to clean your solid surface sink before continuing with repairs:
Remove Debris and Wipe Down
First, clear away any debris like dirt or buildup from the sink basin and drain. Then wipe down all surfaces with a soft sponge or cloth dampened with warm water and a small amount of mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleansers at this stage.
Disinfect Basin
After washing, disinfect the sink basin with a non-abrasive cleaner designed for solid surface materials. Let the disinfectant sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing.
Remove Embedded Stains
For stains that remain after cleaning, use a soft scrub cleanser. Apply it to stained areas and allow it to penetrate for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing with a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly.
Dry Completely
Wipe the basin thoroughly with paper towels once cleaning is complete. Allow to air dry completely before beginning repairs.
Sanding a Solid Surface Sink
Sanding helps smooth small scratches, remove stains or discoloration, and prepare the sink for polishing. Take a gradual approach for best results:
Start With Light Sanding
Begin by using a 320 or 400 grit wet/dry sandpaper. Lightly sand the affected areas using small circular motions. Avoid excessive pressure.
Progress Through Grits
Move up through finer grits like 600-1500 as sanding progresses. Thoroughly rinse and dry the sink between each sanding session.
Use Orbital Sander for Deep Damage
For sinks with extensive stains or scratches, use an orbital sander to speed up the sanding process before finishing with hand-sanding. Take care not to over-sand any one area.
Sand Entire Basin
To ensure an even, uniform appearance, lightly sand and buff the entire sink basin, not just damaged portions.
Polishing a Solid Surface Sink
After sanding, polishing brings back the sink’s smooth, glossy finish:
Remove Dust
Clean dust and debris from sanding using denatured alcohol or acetone applied with a soft cloth. Buff dry.
Apply Polishing Compound
Use a soft buffing wheel or microfiber cloth to spread a polishing compound designed for solid surface over the entirety of the sanded basin.
Buff to Shine
Moving in small circles, buff the polishing compound into the sink. Apply pressure as needed remove fine sanding scratches and restore gloss.
Clean Residue
Once the sink shows an even polish, wipe away any remaining residue with a soft cloth dampened with denatured alcohol or acetone.
Sealing a Solid Surface Sink
Sealing protects the renewed finish and prevents future stains and damage:
Select Sealant
Choose a sealant specifically designed for solid surface materials. Avoid generic plastic and acrylic sealants.
Clean and Dry First
Thoroughly clean and dry the sink before applying sealant. Remaining moisture or residue will affect adhesion.
Apply Sealant
Following the product directions, apply a thin, even layer of sealant over all interior sink surfaces. Avoid over-application.
Allow Proper Curing
Let the sealant cure fully before regular use of the sink, following cure times on the product labeling. This ensures strongest protection.
Re-Seal Yearly
Renew the sealant layer on your solid surface sink every year or so to maintain protection and extend the results of restoration.
Common Solid Surface Sink Damage and Repair
In addition to the overall restoration process, you may need to use specialized techniques to address specific forms of sink damage:
Scratches
Lightly sand scratches with 400-600 grit sandpaper until smoothed out. Start on the perimeter of the scratch and work inward.
Stains
Try bleach, hydrogen peroxide, acetone, or cigarette tar remover on stubborn stains before sanding. Rub gently with a soft cloth.
Discoloration
From materials like hair dye or tomato sauce, sand with 1000-1500 grit sandpaper to remove top layer of discolored material.
Cracks
Seal minor cracks by filling with waterproof acrylic caulk after cleaning. Wider cracks may require professional resurfacing.
Chipped Areas
Sand down rough edges or raised portions. Fill chipped areas with solid surface repair compound per kit directions.
Maintaining a Restored Solid Surface Sink
Once restored, proper care and maintenance will keep your solid surface sink looking renewed:
- Use mild cleansers – Avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage finishes.
- Clean spills promptly – Don’t allow stains time to set.
- Avoid hard scrubbing – Use soft sponges and cloths for regular cleaning.
- Install sink grid – Protect the basin surface from scratches.
- Re-seal yearly – Renew protective sealant layer annually.
- Address damage early – Fix chips, scratches, and other issues quickly.
Restoring Your Solid Surface Sink FAQ
Still have some questions about restoring solid surface sinks? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Can I use car wax to polish my solid surface sink?
No, car wax should be avoided as it can yellow and distort solid surface materials over time. Use a polish made specifically for solid surfaces.
How do I get rid of hard water stains on my sink?
Vinegar or citric acid can help dissolve and remove stubborn hard water stains. Apply and let sit for 15 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
What grit sandpaper should I use on shallow scratches?
For light scratches, use a 400 or 600 grit sandpaper. Heavier scratches may require starting with 320 grit and working up to higher grits.
Can I use bleach to clean my solid surface sink?
Yes, diluted bleach can disinfect and brighten a solid surface sink basin. Avoid full strength to prevent discoloration over time.
Is it possible to fully remove cigarette burns from a solid surface sink?
Cigarette burns can be difficult to remove entirely. Sanding and polishing may reduce their appearance but not eliminate them.
How long does solid surface sink restoration take?
With the right supplies, light restoration can take 1-2 hours. Heavily damaged sinks may require a multi-day restoration. Proper drying time between steps is essential.
Conclusion
Restoring and renewing a worn solid surface sink provides big benefits for your kitchen or bath. Following the processes of cleaning, sanding, polishing, sealing, and repairing specific damage allows you to upgrade both aesthetics and utility. While restoring a solid surface sink requires some work, the long-lasting results are well worth the effort. With proper ongoing care and maintenance, your restored sink will retain its renewed look for years to come.
