Zinc countertops

[GlenRad]

I am installing zinc countertops in my kitchen and would like to know how best to polish them. From what I have read, it can be finished satin or polish, I'm not sure which way I want to go yet. The counter is a fairly large surface of 6 feet by 7 feet. Not sure if something that can be used in a drill chuck is big enough for this job, or if a body shop type buffer is needed. Also clueless as to wheel type, compound, etc. I'm not sure if a body shop guy would know as they generally deal with painted surfaces, not raw metal.

Any and all help appreciated. Thanks.

[jrow]

GlenRad,

Good question! I don't think your counter tops are pure zinc, but probably zinc plated. See if you can get a small piece of zinc from the vendor that is making the top. The zinc is probably pretty thin so you don't want to put to much pressure on it until you do some experimenting.
I would try rubbing compound or polishing compound and see what happens. The rubbing compound being the courser of the two. You maybe able to polish it like you would a car. I would try it by hand before I went to any mechanical means. I would use some mild dish washing detergent first to clean the oil off.

Let us know how you make out!

John

[mcaswell]

I've never heard of such a thing - zinc counter-tops. But, hey, what do I know!

Are you sure they are solid zinc, or perhaps steel sheet that is zinc plated?
Stick a magnet on it to check for steel.

I can imagine all sorts of problems with this. Acid materials like vinegar and even tomatoes are going to seriously corrode zinc. Any metal object, like flatware, placed on a wet surface would cause the zinc to sacrifice itself to the object.

If you must have them, I'd suggest you coat them with a tough material that will withstand chemical attack. Our Gas Tank Sealer would be ideal, but at this point, I'm not sure it has FDA approval for food contact.

Interesting. Let us know what you decide to do, please.

[GlenRad]

Mike,

Thanks for your response. The following is a link the supplier of my zinc counters. I believe they are solid zinc and will be .030 thick. There are some pictures as well of some installations. I am told that stains, etc can be sanded then polished out if necessary. I've seen these installed in some restaurant bars and they have a great vintage look to them. If you have any products that might help me finish them, I'd be appreciative. Thanks again.

Glen

http://www.rotometals.com/Pictures-O...ed_c_86-1.html