FAQ

What is stone grinding?

Stone grinding is a process that flattens the ski base, removes damaged or sealed material, and cuts a new base structure (pattern) tailored to snow conditions.  The result is a clean base that accepts wax more reliably and glides more efficiently. 

Using a modern world cup ready grinding machine with a proper wax treatment greatly enhances user experience!

Why should I get my nordic skis stone-ground?

• Over time, bases develop burns, scratches, waves, or sealed surfaces (e.g. from overheating wax). This degrades performance and enjoyment of sliding on snow.
• A fresh, high-quality grind restores base speed, makes waxing more effective, and ensures better glide. 

When (or how often) should I have my skis ground?

• For recreational skiers, every few seasons may suffice.
• For racers or high-usage skis, grinding annually (or before major races) is common. 
• Note: the more you delay, the more damage and base distortion can accumulate, which can require removal of more material to correct. 

How many times can a ski be stone-ground?

• It depends on the ski construction and how much base material remains. Some skis can only handle 3–4 grinds applications; others, if maintained regularly, may last many more. 
• The key is to remove as little material as necessary to restore flatness and imprint structure. 

What kinds of base structure (“grind”) are there?

• Structures vary by coarseness (fine, medium, coarse) and by pattern detail. 
• Fine structures suit cold, dry, or fine-grained snow (low moisture).
• Medium structures are good for general conditions (mixed snow, moderate moisture). 
• Coarse or deeper structures help in wet, coarse-grain, or heavy snow to channel moisture and reduce suction.

What is involved in the grinding process?

1. Batching: Skis are handled in groups.
2. Flattening: Remove warps, waves, concavities; sometimes a sharp scraper is used first. 
3. Polishing / smoothing: Prepare base to accept new structure.
4. Structure imprinting: The final pattern or structure is cut into the base in one or multiple passes. 
5. Post-grind treatment: Hot box, wax saturation, scraping, brushing, and finishing steps to stabilize the base. 

How long does it take?

• During ski season: shops typically process in 4–7 business days per batch.
• In off-season, turn-around may be slower due to less frequent batching. 

Does stone grinding replace waxing?

No — stone grinding complements waxing. After grinding, the base is “fresh” and ready to accept wax deeply, and a hot box or wax treatment is usually recommended.  Waxing (and brushing, structure tuning) is still essential before each use for good glide and protection.

Can I do it myself?

• Home / DIY grinding is difficult — precise control, uniformity, and avoiding damage are critical.
• Manual structure tools can supplement a base after professional grinding, but they are temporary and can’t fully replace stone grinding.

What about new or lightly used skis — should I get them ground?

• Yes, even new skis benefit: factory structures are often generic/mass-produced and may not be optimal for your intended use/conditions.  
• Professionally produced hand structures with a Tazzari machine will greatly enhance user experience.