Epoxy Resins
Two-part epoxies for reinforcing slabs, bonding seams and mitres, fixing sinks and making strong, water-resistant repairs.
- Slab reinforcement
- Seams and mitres
- Undermount sinks
Best to buy: Feb–Apr, Sep–Oct
Read guideSee epoxy vendors
Chemicals buying guideLast updated October 2026
Polishing Powders and Crystallisers
The final gloss on marble and terrazzo floors.
- Price level
- Budget
- Best to buy
- Feb–Apr, Sep–Oct
- Top sources
Photo: Z22, CC BY-SA 4.0
Overview
What it is
For marble, limestone and terrazzo floors, the final gloss is often achieved with polishing powders (oxalic-acid or tin-oxide compounds) worked with a floor machine and pad, or by crystallisation: a fluorosilicate solution buffed with steel wool under a heavy machine, which forms a hard, glossy layer on calcite.
They're fast and cheap, but over-used they build up and alter the surface. Many restorers prefer diamond honing to a fine grit followed by a light powder polish.
- Types
- Oxalic powders, tin oxide, crystallisers, creams
- Works on
- Calcite stones: marble, limestone, travertine, terrazzo
- Not for
- Granite and quartzite (use diamonds)
- Tools
- Low-speed floor machine with pads or steel wool
Applications
Best used for
- Marble floor maintenancePeriodic gloss restoration.
- After honingFinal polish step.
- Hotels and lobbiesHigh-gloss finishes.
- TerrazzoCalcite-rich surfaces.
Origins
Which countries to source from
The producing countries that matter for polishing powders and crystallisers, what each is known for, and a direct link to vendors there.
Italy Leading source
Floor-care specialists
- Stone-care makers
Spain
Crystallisers for marble floors
- Floor-care makers
Germany
Stone-care specialists
- Akemi
Timing
Best time of year to buy
Chemicals are made to order all year. Ship resins and water-based products in mild months: summer heat shortens shelf life in transit, and winter cold can freeze or crystallise them.
- Jan: slower or pricier
- Feb: best time to buy
- Mar: best time to buy
- Apr: best time to buy
- May: normal
- Jun: normal
- Jul: slower or pricier
- Aug: slower or pricier
- Sep: best time to buy
- Oct: best time to buy
- Nov: normal
- Dec: slower or pricier
Best time to buy Normal Slower or pricier
- Epoxy hardeners and water-based sealers can crystallise or freeze in unheated containers in winter.
- Summer container temperatures can exceed 50 °C, which shortens the shelf life of polyesters and catalysts.
- Most products have a 12 to 24 month shelf life: buy for your usage, not for a discount.
Import costs
Tariffs and import duties
Base duties for the main import markets, the extra US surcharge by origin, and the trade remedies to check before you quote a landed price.
HS codes
- 3405.90Polishes and similar preparations
Base import duty (MFN)
United StatesFree
European Union0%
United Kingdom0%
Importing into the US? Add the 2026 origin surcharge
Section 301 rates in force since 24 July 2026, stacked on the MFN rate above.
- Italy10% min.Section 301 (2026) tops the duty up to at least 10% in total; no surcharge if MFN is already higher.
- Spain10% min.Section 301 (2026) tops the duty up to at least 10% in total; no surcharge if MFN is already higher.
- Germany10% min.Section 301 (2026) tops the duty up to at least 10% in total; no surcharge if MFN is already higher.
- Effective 1 November 2026, the European Union will apply a 3.00 EUR low-value consignment customs duty and a 2.00 EUR union handling fee for relevant imports.
Rates checked October 2026. Indicative rates for planning, not a customs ruling. Duties depend on the exact tariff line, origin, trade agreements and the rules in force on the day of entry. Confirm with a licensed customs broker before you price an order.
Before you order
Buying checklist
- 1Test on a hidden tile.
- 2Neutralise and rinse: acid residues etch.
- 3Avoid over-crystallising, which builds a brittle layer.
- 4Use the right pad and machine speed.
Price level: Cheap per square metre.
Vendor Network
Ready to source polishing powders and crystallisers?
Compare verified suppliers, or post an RFQ and let them come to you with quotes.
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