Were you about to sand your epoxy resin casting to make a clear masterpiece? But didn’t, because you wonder if it really can be sanded? Well, you are in the perfect spot.
Sanding is done after curing to get an ideal glass-like epoxy resin surface. There are certain myths that it will spoil the epoxy resin.
This article is intended to throw light on whether the epoxy resin is sanded or not. In addition, to your bonus, we will discuss a lot about sanding the epoxy resin. So, trace down this article with me to explore the topic.
Table of Contents
What is sanding –
Sanding is the technique that is practiced in the process of resin casting after curing and preferably before polishing.
Sanding is done to get a stable, smooth, soft surface that can appear glassy and glossy.
Can you sand your epoxy resin –
Considering the myths, several people believe sanding destroys epoxy resin, reducing its durability. This is not true. Sanding does not eliminate epoxy resin.
Instead, it helps to make the irregular surface of epoxy resin more regular and smooth, thus preventing it from further scratches, cracks, and damage.
Also, the sanding process does not include any use of hazardous materials and is safe on the surface of epoxy resin. On this note, you can sand your epoxy resin and get a crystal clear and regular surface without any second thought.
I have a complete guide for you on How to sand epoxy resin? So could you give it a definite read?
Why does epoxy resin is needed to be sanded –
Sanding epoxy resin is essential to make the epoxy resin look glossy, and also, in addition, it increases its durability. The technique indulges the use of sandpaper by which the surface is rubbed with care to attain regularity in the surface.
It is a crucial process that multiplies the shelf-life but is not mandatory. One can skip this stage and rely on some other alternatives for the same.
What are the types of sanding –
The straightforward technique of sanding can be done in two super-easy ways.
1. Dry sanding.
2. Wet sanding.
You will require a couple of significant materials, including sandpaper and water. You can use an electric sander or an air-powered sander if needed.
I strongly recommend using the best sandpaper for the epoxy resin to get the best results.
To know how the sanding process is done, hang out with this article further, as I will let you know the step-by-step guide for both types of sanding.
How much time does the process of sanding the epoxy resin takes –
If you want to know how much time precisely sanding the epoxy resin takes, here is good news.
Sanding epoxy resin is one of the best stages that requires no time and minimal effort to yield a quality masterpiece of epoxy resin.
After your epoxy resin is cured, you can sand it; roughly, it will not take 15-20 minutes. Make sure to give your epoxy resin another 15-20 minutes to rest and present its distinctive and beautiful form.
I have all these tips and tricks in the article. What’s the best way to sand epoxy resin? For you! So don’t forget to give it a read.
What do you need for sanding the epoxy resin –
Well, this is one of my favorite concerns. This is because you don’t need anything to sand epoxy resin. Yes, you heard it right! You don’t need anything expensive for the process of sanding.
All you will require are the following:
1. Sandpaper
2. Water (if you are opting for wet sanding)
3. Air sander (if you are opting for dry sanding)
Patience is the golden material that will act as a golden secret to a beautiful masterpiece after sanding. You will have to keep waiting before sanding your epoxy resin to avoid any issues of destroying them.
To know how long to wait before sanding epoxy resin, click here.
Precautions to be taken in the process of sanding –
1. The hardness of epoxy resin – The epoxy resin gets hard after curing, which is the primary reason why sometimes it becomes hard to sand the surface as the abrasive paper becomes dull quickly.
Try replacing sandpaper frequently when sanding epoxy resin.
2. The change of sandpaper – Sandpaper gets clogged and has to be replaced or cleaned from time to time, or else it will leave sanding marks on the surface of the epoxy resin.
For better results, check what sandpaper you use to sand epoxy resin to avoid complications.
3. The creation of dust – In dry sanding, dust emission is widespread and brutal to deal with. Use protective masks and gloves with a ventilated area while casting epoxy resin.
4. Excessive heat – The evolution of heat is often faced in dry sanding, which may lead to cracks in epoxy resin. As far as possible, opt for wet sanding to eliminate this issue.
FAQ –
1. Can we use warm water when wet sanding for epoxy resin?
Yes, in wet sanding, the water temperature can be anything from normal to mild warm, as it will not affect the epoxy resin in any way.
Avoid too cold or too hot water as it may make the surface of the newly epoxy resin get spoiled and prone to damage easily.
2. Is the process of dry sanding hazardous to health?
Well, when dry sanded, the dust emitted by epoxy resin can produce air-borne effects and damage the lungs and other respiratory organs.
The epoxy resin dust is carcinogenic, so proper double masks and hand gloves are essential.
3. What should be the grain size?
The grain size ranges from 60-1000, but I recommend you start with 120 and increase it to 1000.
Too small a size can invite scratches to your epoxy resin surface, increasing your work and eliminating them, which is a complicated process. (Check whether you can sand epoxy resin with 80 grit or not).
Conclusion –
I hope you enjoyed reading the complete information and got a detailed answer – Can epoxy resin be sanded along with the whole process and precautions?
If you find this helpful information, share this double with your friends and leave it in the comment section for us; how would you rate us for this information, and how was your experience with the sanding of the epoxy resin?
Happy Epoxy resin Casting!