![9 Best Epoxy Resins for Wood [Professional Review] - Epoxy Resin Hub](http://jacolby.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/9-Best-Epoxy-Resins-for-Wood-Professional-Review-Epoxy-Resin-Hub-1024x576.jpg)
Are you looking for a way to upgrade the beauty of your wooden tables, cabinets, or floors? If yes, the epoxy resin should be your ideal choice. Here is what you’ll know after reading this –
1. 9 of the Best Epoxy Resin For Wood
2. Crucial things to have when working with epoxy
3. Things to consider before getting one
4. Additional Things To See as a beginner
5. And a couple of FAQs
Epoxy resin is typically used to create high-gloss coatings for bar counters, wooden tabletops, etc. Many DIYers also use it to create their own unique wooden art pieces, such as river tables.
It provides an amazing shiny look to all your wooden things and enhances the aesthetics of your precious abode. They also help maintain your wooden items’ cleanliness by minimizing stains and resisting scratches.
Simply put, epoxy resin is a blend of two healing products that creates a kind of liquid plastic that can be molded into any shape and can be used to cover countless things.
It crafts a protective layer over any wooden surface; it is spread upon and further makes it durable and transparent. But to get great results using epoxy resin, you need to be very careful while purchasing one.
There are plenty of them available in the market, and choosing one can be tricky. For your help, we have compiled a list of some of the best epoxy resins available on the market.
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2024-04-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
Must-have accessories when working with Epoxy Resin –
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2024-04-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
Table of Contents
9. Protective Coatings 16333 12 oz PC-Woody Epoxy Paste –
If you want the epoxy to repair rotted wood, this is for you. Unlike other epoxies, it has a paste-like consistency, which is fantastic for improving. It is made from real wood, so its structural strength is greater than most wood.
Once cured, it does the permanent repair. It is resistant to mildew, dry rot, UV, and fresh/saltwater, so the cruel nature can’t harm it. You can save big bucks on repairs while still getting the same results.
You get two-part epoxy in two cup-size boxes. When opened, you see a very light but thick paste, so thick in fact that once shot in, it stays in place without a problem. You can use it indoors and outdoors, and it will work like a charm.
But before using, make sure you clean out all the rot and use the wood petrifier(optional). You have about 30 minutes of working time, so only mix what you can shape in 30 minutes. Mix the next batch, and keep going; you do not have to wait for additional in-between layers.
And don’t care about lumps and bumps as you can sand it afterward. It cures tacky in about 24 hours, and within 48 hours, it becomes rock hard. Once it’s cured, you can saw, drill, screw, mold, sand, or paint it without any issue.
Pros
- Perfect epoxy for repairing rotten wood
- It’s so thick that once shot; it stays in place
- The structural strength is greater than most woods, so it last long
- You can use it indoors or outdoors as it’s UV, Mildew, and water-resistant
- You can drill, screw, mold, and even sand on it
Cons
- It can’t really be used for anything else than repairing rotten wood
- Two-part epoxy paste to replace missing or rotted wood is resistant to dry rot, UV light, fresh and salt water
- Can be used in indoor and outdoor applications with an application temperature range of 35 to 115 degrees F...
- High tack helps reduce drips and sags while hardening
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2024-04-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
8. Pourable Plastic 2″ Thick Clear Casting Resin –
This epoxy from Incredible solutions is perfect for table projects. It is very thin, crystal clear, doesn’t smell, and has a long cure time that results in a tough finish. Since it cures very slowly, allowing a deeper pour without extreme heat or cracks.
You get two bottles, a resin, and a curing agent, which requires a 2:1 mix ratio. This thing is very thin and flows like water, which is excellent as it levels itself perfectly and becomes a bit easier to use. However, it also carries some cons.
Like, any tilt in the table will result in uneven thickness, so you must be careful while using. It has added UV inhibitors, which help it resist yellowing due to the sun. But again, I won’t recommend you to keep it outside permanently, or it’ll turn yellow like every epoxy resin.
When putting in Mica powder, it settles a bit, so you have to stir it to mix correctly. If stirred gently, it comes out with a lovely clear swirl pattern. However, if stirred in a hurry, it comes out with bubbles that otherwise wouldn’t have appeared.
It has a slow curing time of 36-48 hours depending on the temperature, so wait for this long before adding a new layer or messing with it. One pro tip I have is to be careful of dust. It is so smooth any dust landing on sticky epoxy can be visible in the finished product.
Pros
- Perfect for table projects
- Crystal clear, doesn’t smell, and prevents sun yellowing
- It allows a deeper pour without extreme heat or cracks
- It’s very thin, so it levels itself if the table is leveled properly
- It can be mixed with Mica powder and other pigments
Cons
- If the table isn’t leveled properly, it’ll result in uneven thickness
- You have to keep it away from any dust, or it can be visible in the final product
- Deep Pouring Depth: With an impressive pouring depth of up to 4", this epoxy resin allows you to securely...
- Extended Working Time: A resin kit for beginners and experts, Promise Deep Pour Epoxy Resin a clear epoxy...
- Vivid High-Gloss Finish: Elevate your projects with a touch of elegance using our crystal clear epoxy resin....
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2024-04-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
7. RTG Supply Co. Bar & Table Top Epoxy Resin –
You know it’s designed for Bar & Tabletop from the picture itself, and if your intended use is the same, this is a great option. That, however, doesn’t mean you can’t use it for any other thing. I used it for a river table, and it did work.
Although it did work out, it wasn’t a smart move as there is much better epoxy for thick pours, so only stick with tabletops with these. You get two 1/2 gallons, a Resin, and a hardener that should be mixed in a 1:1 ratio.
Part A(i.e., the epoxy) is very thick like jelly, while Part B(the hardener) pours like water. Since the epoxy is very thick, it sometimes gets super hard getting it out of the container. I don’t understand how they say, “This is a thin resin,” like seriously?
It is indeed one of its cons, but the rest is easier if you get it out. We are talking about waterproof, ultra-clear epoxy resin that is scratch, stain, and impact-resistant and cures to a tough, glossy finish.
It’s also UV resistant, so it avoids sun yellowing too; however, don’t keep it outside permanently. I love the hard glass finish here; that’s among the best, TBH. If applied properly, the air bubbles disappear by waving a hand dryer over them.
Again, read the instructions properly. Another thing people love is the quick set time for the second coat and cure. The instructions say you can recoat in 4-6 hours with a 12-hour window. Otherwise, wait 24 hours, lightly sand, then recoat.
It will vary depending on the temperature and humidity. The surface will dry to the touch within an hour or two but still be a little tacky. Finally, it comes with gloves, mixing sticks, and a spreader, an excellent free add-on.
Pros
- Specially designed for Bar & Table Top
- Waterproof, ultra-clear, and cures glossy
- Scratch, stain, and impact-resistant
- It comes with gloves, mixing sticks, and a spreader
- Air bubbles easily disappear with a hand dryer
- Quick set time for second coat and cure
Cons
- The resin is very thick, so it gets hard to pour off the container
- The instructions are small, so a bit difficult to read
- 2-part, waterproof, ultra-clear epoxy resin coating for bar tops, countertops, and table tops.
- Self-leveling formula cures to a tough, smooth, high-gloss finish that prevents scratches. Color-stable...
- Versatile epoxy resin coating can be used for a wide variety of applications. Customize your bar or table top...
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
6. UV Pro Table Top Epoxy Resin –
If you like the Table Top & Bar Top epoxy from the Incredible solution, you’ll love this one. It’s an upgrade of their already great epoxy. So, what’s changed? Now, it has better UV protection, is much stronger, and has a better consistency.
The most significant add-on is their UV Pro Formula, which provides enhanced UV protection. Although it’s a lot better, it still doesn’t ensure 100% protection. The epoxy will eventually turn yellow if kept outside for a long. But the time period here is much longer.
I particularly love the consistency here, which is quite thicker than the last version but is absolutely fantastic; neither runny nor too thick. And since it’s self-leveling, it’s perfect for tables & Bar tops.
Like the previous version, it’s Scratch, Blemish, and impact resistant. Plus, it’s waterproof, has a low odor, and dries crystal clear with a smooth glossy finish, but you can add Mica powder to have some color.
You get two 1/2 gallons, a resin, and a curing agent that needs a 1:1 mixing ratio. If you are stuck anywhere, simply check the instructions included. Another thing I love is that the final product has little to no bubbles.
However, if you see some, you can easily torch them out. It’s easy to mix, has 25-minute work time, 24 hours to touch, is no smell, shiny, and is affordable. I can say a lot now, but everything else is the same as their previous version.
If you can get an even high-quality resin by spending a little more, why not?
Pros
- Value-for-money epoxy resin
- UV, water, blemish, and impact-resistant
- It’s self-leveling, has a low odor, and gives a glossy finish
- It cures crystal clear but can be mixed with mica powder for color.
- Much better UV protection than others
- It’s a higher value for money than their last version.
Cons
- You have to consider the temperature very seriously
- SLOWS DOWN YELLOWING: If you want to keep your bar top and tabletop crystal clear longer, we have a solution...
- SUPER CLEAR RESULTS: Our self-leveling 2 part epoxy resin cures to an ultra-clear finish with little to bubble...
- FOOD-SAFE WHEN FULLY CURED: If properly mixed, poured, and completely cured, you can rely on our food safe...
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
5. Art ‘N Glow Clear Casting and Coating Epoxy Resin –
This epoxy from Art N’ Glow is excellent for small projects, like filling small cracks and voids. It’s also a great option to start with epoxy as it’s probably the cheapest high-quality epoxy you can find.
You get two bottles, a clear epoxy resin, and a hardener, which works reasonably, sands easily, and looks great. I have used it to fill worm holes and cracks in live edge wood, and oh boy, it worked like a charm.
The fact that it’s pretty thin made it penetrate every tiny crack and void in the wood, making my damaged wood whole and beautiful again. I’ll recommend you read the detailed instructions before using them. Believe me; it’s the key.
Art N’ Glow suggests you pre-seal the wood before using it, but I tried to use it straight away and got lots of bubbles. The heat gun didn’t really help as some bubbles emerged five minutes later.
Then, I used it on pre-sealed wood and got a lot fewer bubbles that also rose to the top and popped after a few hours. So, I’ll say their “self-degassing“ claim is true if used as per instructions.
I also used some Mica powder and resin glow powder to add color and fluoresce, and it mixed and worked as expected. Its also self-leveling, odor-free, and resistant to sun yellowing, which is excellent.
Now, I won’t recommend you leave the resin out permanently. Otherwise, it’ll eventually yellow like all epoxy resin. Apart from wood, you can use it to encapsulate objects, cast jewelry, make resin paintings, and more.
The only complaint I have here is the cure time, which is about 24-72 hours. So, once used, you can’t mess with it for a couple of days. But given the price and quality, I think it’s worth it. However, if you don’t want to wait that long, many great options are below.
Pros
- High-quality yet cheap and affordable
- Perfect for tiny projects
- It can also be used for resin paintings, cast jewelry, and more
- Self-leveling, self-degassing, odor-free, and resistant to sun yellowing
- Mix and work well with Mica powder, glow pigment, and other pigments
Cons
- Cure time is 24-72 hours
- DEPENDABLE QUALITY: Art ‘N Glow’s clear epoxy resin kit is designed to work with our glow in the dark and...
- FORMULATION PERFECTED: All resin is not created equally. Our epoxy includes expensive additives such as UV...
- SAFE AND DURABLE: Looking for a fun DIY home improvement or art project? Our resin hardens to 80+ Shore D, is...
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2024-04-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
4. Incredible Solutions Table Top & Bar Top Epoxy Resin –
Since it’s priced lower than most, I anticipated a low-quality epoxy; however, to my surprise, it worked just as well as the more expensive brands. It’s just as easy to use and identical in quality. So, I’ll call it a value-for-money epoxy resin.
Many of its features were similar to Pourable Plastic epoxy as both are from Incredible solutions. So if you have read about that, you already know about this one. There are many differences, like cure time, thickness, uses, etc., but many things are similar.
Like, it’s UV resistant, self-leveling, has low odor, has zero VOC, and gives a glossy finish. It’s also water, blemish, and impact-resistant, meaning it’s pretty durable. You get two half-gallons, a resin, and a curing agent that mixes easily with a 1:1 ratio.
This epoxy cures clear, perfect for tabletops and countertops, but if you want colors, consider adding some mica powder. I used mica powder, and it was easy to mix and dry well. It’s also surprisingly very easy to clean up.
You can use Lysol cleaning wipes(like me) or any wipes, in general, to clean it without a problem. Now, Incredible Solutions recommend you make sure your room is warm enough and, most importantly, your epoxy.
Seventy-five degrees is perfect for this epoxy; you can even use a thermometer to check. Also, pour it no thicker than 1/4,” or it will create waves and craters from rising bubbles. However, I could pour 1/2” easily in my air-conditioned room, so temperature plays a vital role too.
If you get some bubbles, use a plumbers torch or a heat gun. This thing cures in around 12 hours, depending on heat and humidity. All in all, this is an excellent epoxy.
Pros
- Value-for-money epoxy resin
- UV, water, blemish, and impact-resistant
- It’s self-leveling, has a low odor, and gives a glossy finish
- It cures crystal clear, but you can add some mica powder for color
- It cures in about half a day
Cons
- You can’t pour in more than 1/4″ at a time
- You have to consider the temperature very seriously
- 💎 The Ultimate CRYSTAL CLEAR EPOXY – Our Table Top Epoxy cures ultra clear making it perfect for table...
- 🎨 HIGH GLOSS & SELF LEVELS - Epoxy resin is durable, blemish resistant, has a consistent thickness, cures...
- 🌎 USA FACTORY- We proudly manufacture here so you can rest assured our Epoxy when used and cured correctly...
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2024-04-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
3. Epox-It 80 Clear Epoxy Resin for Wood Bar Table Top –
Although this epoxy can be used for many things, it’s excellent for getting a glossy coating on tabletops. It has a perfect consistency, neither too thin nor too thick, and sets up slowly, so you have plenty of time to level it out.
You get two 1/2 gallons, a Resin(the blue one), and a hardener that is odorless, clear and requires a 1:1 mix ratio. This thing cures crystal-clear and glossy until you mix some mica powder. Then it will harden the color you mixed it with.
I tried it with Mica powder, glitter, and a couple of things, and it works fantastic. I love that it doesn’t have any bubbles when applied correctly. I hardly saw any bubbles, and the small ones that did appear instantly vanished with a low setting on the heat gun.
It is “self-leveling”; however, you might need some help from a foam brush. Also, it’s water-resistant, UV resistant, and odorless, making it far better than others. One thing to note is if you sand it out, you’ll lose the clear finish and make it dull.
Then you have to re-resin it, so all the efforts go down the drain. One thing that impressed me is the short cure time, that’s around 24 hours. Some users I know cured it even faster, so I think temperature plays a crucial role too.
I have one complaint that Part B(i.e., Resin) has a small shelf life, solidifying and becoming lumpy when kept for long. Also, it kind of crystalizes in the cold, which you quickly repair by warming it up in hot water or in front of a heater vent.
But the problem is, once it’s lumpy, you won’t prefer using it for the finished surface. So, don’t buy more than you can use in a few months. Other than that, it’s fantastic.
Pros
- Perfect consistency and dries crystal clear
- Dries out barely any bubbles
- Works excellent with Mica powder, glitter, and other things
- Water-resistant, UV resistant, and odorless
- It has a cure time of around 24 hours, which is less than others.
Cons
- The epoxy has a small shelf life, so it can’t be stored for months
- New and Improve Clear Resin: Epox-It 80 is now formulated with superior properties that outperform the...
- For Art & Function Projects: You can use our resin epoxy for tumblers, fiberglass laminating, and...
- Self-Leveling Resin: Our epoxy resin kit self-levels as it goes onto surfaces, ensuring consitent coating for...
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
2. Deep Pour Epoxy Resin Kit Crystal Clear Plus Clear Epoxy Resin –
This epoxy is the best and most reasonably priced clear resin to pour deep. You can make fantastic River Tables and Live Edge with this one. The viscosity is relatively thinner than other resins, reducing bubbles and filling in tiny spaces in complex pieces.
You get two bottles, 1/2 Gallon of resin, and a quarter hardener, so it requires 2:1 mixing. Before you start using it, make sure to read the instructions very carefully. It mentions the required temperature, mixing time, etc., that MUST be followed seriously.
I love that it didn’t smell anything while mixing, which is a big plus. You can pour 2-4 inches depending on the temperature, and it will cure crystal clear and hard within 72 hours. Yes, it takes that long, but the final result is worth the time and effort.
It’s so clear that it’s frequently mistaken for glass. However, you can add Mica powder, liquid pigments, and alcohol inks and dyes to add some color. Now, FCGI recommends 12% as their color limit that can be added before the curing process is affected.
It has No VOC and is FDA compliant, so food can be kept nearby without a problem. Once fully cured, you can go ahead and sand it as per requirement, easy as that. There are UV additives included, so it yellows slower than most others.
But again, don’t keep it under direct sunlight for long, or it will speed up the yellowing process.
Pros
- Perfect for thick pours like River Tables, Live Edges, Wood Fillers, etc.
- You can pour 2-4 inches depending on the temperature
- It doesn’t smell anything and can be sanded once cured
- Cures crystal clear, but you can add Mica powder and stuff to add colors
- The UV additives included resists yellowing
- No VOC and FDA compliant
Cons
- The cure time is 72 hours
- TRUE DEEP POUR: Experience the ease of 2-4 inch pours with our advanced Liquid Glass Deep Pour Epoxy. Perfect...
- UNMATCHED DURABILITY: Crafted to endure, Superclear 2.0 sets the standard for strength. Its rock-hard curing...
- BUBBLE-LESS TECHNOLOGY: Say goodbye to imperfections with our low viscosity Liquid Glass Epoxy. Its unique...
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
1. Pro Marine Supplies Crystal Clear Bar Table Top Epoxy Resin –
I am absolutely stunned by this epoxy; it’s just the best for wood. Period! Now, I have seen people rejecting it due to the high price, and I understand that, but you get what you paid for. And if you want the best one, you must be willing to spend more.
You get 2 gallons, an epoxy, and a crystal clear hardener that needs 1:1 mixing. It is very thick but with proper mixing becomes just perfect. The hardener will want to settle on top as a thin, clear layer as you mix.
Make sure you constantly push it down the epoxy as you stir, or it’ll ruin the wood. I’ll suggest you read the mixing directions very carefully before use. Its UV-resistant formula prevents yellowing due to the sun but doesn’t leave it outside permanently.
If this is your first time, get a plastic puddle or foam brush to push it around as it spreads. You can also use a foam roller, but it’ll absorb lots of resin. Also, keep denatured alcohol nearby as it cleans it nicely. Once applied, it sets hard in 24-48 hours for a smooth glass finish.
However, if you want to add paint, make sure it’s acrylic. OR use mica powder or spray paint; it works fantastic too(personal experience). Once cured, it produces a tough, high gloss coating that’s water, blemish, and scratch-resistant.
And since it’s FDA compliant, you can keep food nearby without a second thought. I absolutely loved that I didn’t have to use a torch or heat gun that often as I didn’t have many bubbles: less headache, more work.
Pros
- The best epoxy resin for wood
- UV, water, blemish, and scratch-resistant
- It’s self-leveling, has a low odor, and gives a glossy finish
- It mixes well with acrylic, spray paint, and mica powder.
- UV protection resists yellowing due to the sun.
Cons
- A bit costly, but worth every penny
- 1:1 Mixing Ratio for Easy Application: Our epoxy resin offers a simple 1:1 mixing ratio, making it an ideal...
- Food-Safe When Fully Cured: Our food safe epoxy resin is an ideal choice for projects that involve food...
- Self-Leveling Brilliance: Banish the annoyance of uneven pours with our self leveling epoxy resin. Whether...
We earn a small commission from your purchase at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site running. Last update on 2024-04-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API/ More Info
Things To Consider –
Before you delve into the given list, there are certainly other things you should probably be aware of. While selecting the best epoxy resin, you need to consider specific factors related to this mixture and then choose.
By doing this, you will understand more about the epoxy resin and will be able to decide how you want to use the product. Plus, when you determine the use of the epoxy resin, you will know which mixture you want.
1. Gloss And Coverage Area –
The gloss is the first and foremost thing you should consider before purchasing an epoxy resin, as it is why you actually buy one. In fact, this mixture brings gloss to the wood and makes it shine brightly.
Epoxy resins offer three types of gloss: high-glossy, crystal clear, and mirror-like. If you want to give your wooden items a glowing look, you should always invest in a high-glossy epoxy resin. Alternatively, you can also go for a crystal epoxy resin as it shines and gleams better.
Plus, you can also go for a mirror-like gloss epoxy resin, which gives your wooden items a clearer and gleaming look. Generally, most DIYers, craftsmen, and artists search for glass-type crystal transparent resin.
It gives your wooden items a great glow and makes it easy for you to clean them. By using a wet or dry cloth, you just have to wipe the table. Also, you need to check how much coverage area your epoxy resin can cover.
You need to enquire how much resin you will get per ounce, gallon, or pint. For most epoxy resins available in the market today, 1.5 ounces can cover up to 25 square feet.
2. Materials And Durability –
We have already mentioned above that epoxy resin is a mixture of two curing elements that create a strong liquid plastic. However, that does not mean that all epoxy resins are durable.
You need to check the following factors to know about their endurance –
1. Water-resistant – Epoxy resin is a conventional coating for wooden tabletops and outdoor surfaces. You need to buy a waterproof resin to prevent it from damage caused by water.
2. Anti-bubble feature – When you look for a resin, make sure it avoids the formation of bubbles. An epoxy resin that is not thick can easily form bubbles as air probes into the wooden item leading to the formation of bubbles.
3. Resistance to UV – Another thing you need to consider is that your epoxy resin should possess the ability to resist ultraviolet rays. It is essential if you are planning to use epoxy resin coating on an outdoor wooden table. Some mixtures come with added elements that protect against UV rays, and these are the best to buy.
4. Resistant to scratches – Wooden items get spoiled by scratches, which is nothing new. So, look for a premium quality epoxy resin that comes with anti-scratch characteristics so that your wooden furniture can withstand fatal impacts.
5. Blush resistance – Resin produces a waste product called blush. It can cause an irregular effect on the wooden surface as it changes colors. Most of the epoxy resin mixtures feature blush-resistant formulas, and therefore you need to search for them.
3. Curing Time –
Another thing you need to keep in mind while selecting the epoxy resin is the cure time. You need to purchase the one that dries quickly. For instance, those that dry in 30 minutes are suitable for small work.
On the other hand, you need to look for one that dries within 2-72 hours for large areas. Plus, you also need to look for resins that come with a hardener, which is a formula that helps in faster drying.
So, investing in an epoxy resin that comes with a hardener is good as it will save you time.
4. Self-leveling –
If your epoxy resin is self-leveling, then your job becomes much easier. Self-leveling epoxy is simply a coating that is applied, which is not only straightforward and simple to use but spreads out evenly across the surface.
After being applied, it creates a smooth surface. You can use this epoxy resin to fill in wooden surfaces with inlays, cracks, or imperfections. Further, if your epoxy is self-leveling, you do not need a brush or roller to flatten the resin on the surface of the wood.
Also, you don’t have to be concerned about leaving any marks or stains and other kinds of imperfection as you wouldn’t be using any tool to spread the resin. Plus, using this type of resin helps save time and energy.
It is recommended that epoxies that level at about 1/8 inches are ideal and those at 1/10 to 1/6 inches in width are also acceptable for use.
5. Application And Ratio –
Most epoxy resins come in two parts – hardener and resin base, which must be mixed in equal parts. This two-part resin hardens instantly, and therefore, you pour and spread it quickly on the surface before it stiffens.
But if you work too quickly, it is possible that while spreading, you can create bubbles and leave some cracks. It is best to look for an epoxy resin that comes with a longer work time for three reasons.
First, epoxy hardeners can simply be altered by humidity and temperature. Second, you need some time as you don’t want to rush mixing and applying your epoxy resin. Plus, a little extra time is required to remove bubbles or blush.
Moreover, remember to store and use epoxy resins at temperatures more than 75 degrees Fahrenheit and in low humidity areas. Make sure to go through the manufacturer’s description of the use of the mixture before using it.
Sometimes, they may have written the epoxy resin and hardener ratio, which you need to follow carefully instead of using your own.
6. Type –
There are different types of epoxy resins available, and at the end of the day, the choice lies within you.
1. Polyamide epoxy- This epoxy is basically the top choice as many woodworkers use it on their projects. It safeguards different wooden things from corrosive agents. Plus, this epoxy is flexible and comes with excellent adhesion, making it the best.
2. Polyamine epoxy- It is similar to polyamide epoxy resin except for the fact that it can resist chemicals like chlorine and acids. However, it dries slowly as compared to other resins.
3. Phenolic epoxy- Though this epoxy resin finely does the job, it is still not very popular among woodworkers. It needs a little heat to cure properly. Typically, this resin is considered best for use in the industrial or commercial environment.
4. Novolac epoxy- It is the most resistant of all the epoxy resins listed above. Further, it can withstand both chemicals and heat, making it a good choice, especially for outdoor use.
This resin is also a little expensive and takes time to cure. However, it works well not just with wood but with concrete, stones, and metals as well.
Some Additional Things To See Being A beginner –
1. It is essential that whatever epoxy resin you are buying, you should buy it from a known brand. Though if you buy it from unknown places, it may be available at a low price. The damage done by such a resin can be massive, and therefore you should try to avoid it.
2. However, it is possible if you are a beginner, you might not know much about the resin brand. Here, what you can do is ask a woodworker or a DIYer. Plus, you can also search on the net and look for online videos, which will provide you with a little bit of extra information.
3. Next, you need to look for a company that has experience in manufacturing epoxy resin as they must have gotten the right formula. This does not mean you should reject new brands. It just means if you are a beginner, try to go for products already being used and tested by people.
4. Lastly, you need to be extremely careful while using epoxy resin as it may cause some problems if not used properly. Make sure you mix in the right ratio and apply it evenly on the wooden surface. If you face any trouble, you can take help from other woodworkers.
FAQs –
Is Epoxy Resin Safe To Use?
Epoxy resin is considered entirely safe to use, but you still need to take certain measures. First, Set a plastic or a protective cover/paper on the table before you begin, as it sticks and can’t be cleaned easily.
Second, wear an old shirt or apron while working. Third, wear rubber gloves as this resin can stick to your skin and lead to irritation. Plus, if you are sensitive to smell, wear a mask.
If you plan to use epoxy resin for tables in your kitchen that directly contact food, you must buy one that follows all FDA applications.
Moreover, make sure whatever epoxy resin you are planning to buy should comply with FDA requirements. It should be non-toxic and free from dangerous VOCs.
What All Can You Create Using Epoxy Resin?
Epoxy resin is a fantastic formula using which you can create different things.
1. Create a mosaic from old coins, broken china, and guitar picks, and use the epoxy resin to fill the gaps. By doing this, you will get a beautiful and glowing mosaic.
2. You can also seal printed sheets of confetti on the surface of a thing to prevent them from getting damaged.
3. You can create smooth, transparent jewelry as per your design.
4. If you have any old tables with some cracks or stains, you can use epoxy resin to cover them.
How Do You Use Epoxy Resin?
Epoxy resin is made from two elements- epoxy, a hardening agent that helps in drying, while the resin is adhesive, which allows the formula to stick easily. To enjoy this mixture benefit, you need to mix epoxy resin evenly.
Also, epoxy can stick to things easily, and removing it can be challenging. Therefore, work in a clean area. When buying epoxy resin, it is best to gauge your project needs first.
Conclusion
We hope that by going through the above list, you will be able to make the right choice. All these epoxy resins will provide an attractive look to your wooden crafts and preserve them for a long time.
Some of them are beginner-friendly, while others are more suited for experts. However, at the end of the day, buy epoxy resin according to your requirement and your experience in using them.