Epoxy resins are clear, viscous coatings poured onto surfaces, such as kitchen countertops and bar tops, to protect them from moisture and wear. Epoxy resins are not to be confused with epoxy glues and adhesives. Epoxy resins are a modern alternative to traditional varnishes, easier to work with and more durable.
If you're looking for a coating that has a deep glass-like appearance and is scratch- and water-resistant, take a look at the ProGlas 1000 Clear Coat Epoxy Resin System.
Epoxy is a general term referring to a group of compounds that are used as adhesives, coatings and in castings.
These measurements are often confused, but the difference is significant.
Most epoxy resins for sealing projects are sold in gallon bottles and cost $75 to $150, depending upon the chemical formulation. Resins for casting come in smaller bottles costing $1 to $2 per ounce.
A. Yes, but porous surfaces such as wood and concrete require additional preparation, including laying a primer coat. As always, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and heed its cautions.
A. Skim coats are thin layers that act as primers to fill in gaps and smooth the surface of what you’re coating. They seal the surface and keep air bubbles from forming later. You apply skim coats with a squeegee and work the epoxy in until the surface looks wet but not glossy. You may need more than one coat and must wait several hours between applications.
A. When sealing a flat wooden surface, prime the vertical edges first. Epoxy flows at about the same rate as honey and will always be thinner on the edges where it drips off, unless you prime them first.
ProGlas 1000 Clear Coat Epoxy Resin System
What you need to know: Use this coating for tabletops, bar tops, countertops and any other remodeling project you have in mind.
What you’ll love: The resin is self-leveling for easy application and produces a tough, clear high-gloss coating specially formulated for a deep glass appearance. It is scratch- and water-resistant, contains ultraviolet inhibitors and has a work life of 60 minutes.
What you should consider: This resin is best for smaller surface areas because it may harden too quickly for large-surface projects.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
What you need to know: The 1-to-1 resin is non-toxic, self-leveling and easy for beginners to work with.
What you’ll love: You get resin and hardener, mixing and measuring cups, stirrers, spoons, a silicone spatula pad and disposable gloves. You stir the mixture, add one or more of the 32 colors, pour the liquid into flexible molds, wait 24 hours and remove two dozen colorful pendants.
What you should consider: The silicone mat comes folded and is hard to get the creases out of.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Janchun High Gloss Coating and Casting Resin
What you need to know: This low-viscosity 1-to-1 mix ratio resin is specially formulated for artists because it is non-toxic, has low odor and fumes, and resists yellowing from UV exposure.
What you’ll love: It's free of bubbles, perfectly transparent and dries crystal clear or in your choice of 12 colors of mica powders. It cures as hard as a rock in eight hours. You get gloves, an apron, drop cloths, stir sticks and a spatula.
What you should consider: Measuring cups are not included.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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David Allan Van writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
