Polishing Pad FAQs

Polishing pads serve as the crucial interface between your polishing compound and the work surface, designed specifically to hold and distribute these compounds evenly across surfaces. Sitting between your polishing tool and compound, the various pad types can offer different benefits to your polishing task.

There are three main types of polishing pads, each engineered for specific applications - wool, foam and microfibre. 

Wool polishing pads represent the most aggressive option in the polishing arsenal. These pads excel at heavy defect removal, particularly effective when addressing significant surface defects. However, their aggressive cutting action typically necessitates follow-up refinement with finer pads to achieve the desired finish quality.

Foam polishing pads can be found in open-cell (reticulated) or closed-cell (non-reticulated) varieties. Open-cell foam pads allow for better airflow, reducing heat buildup and offering more aggressive cutting. Closed-cell foam pads are denser, providing better control and are typically used for finishing or light polishing where precision is key. By offering these structural variants in a range of densities, we can provide foam pads suitable for cutting through to fine polishing.

Microfibre polishing pads can offer superior cutting performance compared to foam, making them ideal for harder paint surfaces. Their fibres reach deeper into the micro-pores of paint, effectively removing subsurface imperfections such as micro scratches and oxidation while generating less heat. This combination of efficiency and finish quality makes them an excellent choice for cutting stages in polishing.

Choosing the right polishing pad is essential to remove defects with minimal material removal. Start by assessing the level of correction needed, aiming to use the least aggressive pad that will still remove imperfections effectively. For deep defects, a more aggressive pad (like wool or reticulated foam) may be necessary, but always with careful pressure to avoid excess removal. For lighter imperfections, medium-density foam or microfibre pads are ideal, gently refining the surface while preserving as much material as possible.

Surface hardness and defect type also impact pad selection. Harder surfaces may require a slightly more aggressive pad, while softer ones benefit from gentler options. For a multi-stage process, progress from aggressive to finer pads, finishing with a soft foam pad to enhance gloss without further material loss.

It is good practice to clean polishing pads with a spurring brush after every 2-3 panels as this will allow the pad to give the optimum performance on every application, and it will prolong the life of the pad. At the end of each working day, best practice is to wash polishing pads with clean water and allow to dry overnight in readiness for the following day.

Yes, many pads are compatible with both dual-action (DA) and rotary polishers, but you may need different pads depending on the type of machine. For example, wool pads are often preferred for rotary machines, while foam pads work well with DA machines for better control.

Reticulated, or open cell, foam pads are generally more aggressive than non-reticulated ones. Reticulation refers to the open-cell structure of the foam, which increases airflow, reduces heat, and improves the pad's ability to hold and distribute compound evenly. This open structure allows for more surface contact and cutting action, making reticulated foam pads better suited for heavier correction work.

Non-reticulated foam pads, with a denser, closed-cell structure, are typically less aggressive and more suited for polishing or finishing stages, as they generate less friction and have a smoother contact profile.

Wool pads are generally more aggressive and faster at cutting compared to foam pads. They are ideal for removing deep defects, but foam pads offer more control and refinement, especially when transitioning to the polishing and finishing stages.

No, it is recommended to use different polishing pads for each stage. A pad designed for cutting will be too aggressive for finishing, and using a finishing pad for cutting won’t be effective in removing deeper defects.

Depending on the compound, you may be able to use one type of compound with two pads for a two step cut and finish.

Dual Action (DA) polishers represent the more forgiving option in machine polishing. These tools operate by combining rotational movement with an orbital action, creating a pattern that reduces the risk of surface damage. This design makes them particularly compatible with foam and microfibre pads. The reduced heat generation characteristic of DA polishers makes them ideal for less experienced users while still capable of achieving professional results. 

Rotary polishers, conversely, demand greater operator skill but offer superior cutting capability. These machines work particularly well with wool and dense foam pads, enabling rapid defect removal when properly used. However, their direct rotational action generates more heat and requires careful technique to prevent surface damage. Professional users often reserve rotary polishers for specific applications where their advantages outweigh their risks.

Pad longevity depends on multiple interrelated factors. Usage frequency naturally impacts wear rates, but proper maintenance practices can significantly extend useful life. Storage conditions play a crucial role - pads should be kept in clean, dry environments away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. The types of compounds used affect pad wear, with more aggressive compounds typically accelerating degradation. Surface conditions being worked on also influence longevity, as heavily contaminated or rough surfaces can accelerate pad wear.

Colour coding can help quickly identify a polishing pad's function, and this varies by manufacturer. 

Our G Mop foam polishing pads are typically colour coded with white for high cut, yellow for medium cut compounding and black for finishing. 

Please refer to your selected compound for the recommended polishing pad combination.

Before use, prime the pad with a small amount of compound to ensure even distribution and reduce dry friction. 

Keep the pad clean, using a spurring brush regularly to prevent compound build-up, and check the pad’s condition visually for any wear. 

Attach the pad securely to the machine polisher and replace it when signs of wear appear, to ensure consistent results.

Regular pad cleaning with a spurring brush prevents compound build-up and maintains cutting effectiveness. More thorough cleaning may require hand washing with mild detergent. Complete drying before storage prevents material degradation and maintains pad integrity.

Regularly inspect pads to assess wear patterns, pad texture, and cutting effectiveness. 

This proactive approach to maintenance helps ensure consistent results and prevents surface damage from degraded pads.

Liquid waxes can be applied with a soft finishing foam applicator pad, before being wiped clean with a microfibre cloth.