EPOXY RESIN & HARDENER TABLE TOP & BAR TOP
Table Top Epoxy Resin is a 100% solid, two component, clear polymer coating that is mixed at a 1 to 1 ratio by volume. Each epoxy resin kit contains a bottle of resin and a bottle of hardener. The product cures to a clear, high build, glass like finish that resists scratching, yellowing and will not distort with age. Items coated with it will become permanently preserved and protected for your enjoyment throughout a lifetime. The table top epoxy resin will not exhibit blushing or sweat out under high humidity conditions.
Primary use:
Table top epoxy resin is commonly seen on bar tops and table tops in many bars and restaurants.
Application:
Table top epoxy resin should be applied in two stages. The first stage is referred to as the seal coat. The seal coat is brushed on in a thin layer and is used to seal any pores in the surface and prevent air bubbles from forming in the following flood coats. This stage is followed by the flood coat, which will flow and self level, clean brushes or squeeges can be used to help spread the epoxy. Flood coats are applied in 1/8"" layers at a time, as many as desired can be applied, however one to three coats is average for most table or bar coatings.
Recoating/Between Layers:
Recoating can usually be done within 8 hours. If re-coated within this time period lite sanding is necessary between layers. If your previous layer has fully dried, light sanding with 220 or 320 grit sandpaper is recommended to achieve a good bonding surface. After sanding you should wipe down with a solvent such as denatured alcohol, acetone, to remove any impurities from the surface. (Do NOT use mineral spirits)
Imbedding Pictures:
Objects, such as pictures, maps etc. can be imbedded in the epoxy resin during the pours. Most photo quality paper does not require any special preparation however sometimes thin paper objects must first be sealed with a white glue or similar product to prevent the epoxy resin from fully penetrating the paper and causing it to become transparent.
Imbedding Solid Objects (wood, rocks, shells, etc.) All porous materials should first have a seal coat of table top epoxy resin applied. This will prevent air bubbles from occurring in subsequent flood coats. Usually the objects can be set in place before sealing.
Working Conditions:
For best results the product should be used at temperatures from 75-85 degrees F. The room which you are working should be clean, dry, dust free. Settling dust can often cause blemishes on the glassy surface.
Exterior Applications:
Please note that although the table top epoxy resin will resist yellowing better than other epoxies it is NOT 100% UV resistant. Continuous outdoor UV exposure over months or years will cause the finish to lose its gloss and cause gradual changes in color.
Coverage:
Each 1 Gallon kit contains equal amounts of resin and hardener. (Approximate coverage - 24-30 square feet per gallon). Remember not to combine seal and flood coat coverage's. Flood coats are designed to go on approximately 1/8"" thick, which is about three times thicker than that of a seal coat. Example: A 6ft x 4ft bare wood table (24sq ft) would require 2 Quarts to complete ONE seal coat and about a gallon and a half to complete ONE flood coat for a total of Two Gallons.
Beginners Notes:
This table top epoxy resin will acheive professional results when applied correctly so take your time and make sure to beware of these of the common problems we have seen encountered by first time users.
1. Always make sure that your mixing container is clean and your measuring device is accurate, this table top epoxy resin Requires that you mix at a 1 to 1 ratio by weight or volume, any variances from this can cause the epoxy resin to stay soft and not fully cure.
2. This table top epoxy resin requires a THOROUGH mixing, usually between 3-4 minutes of solid mixing without excessive whipping of the mixture(whipping will put lots of air bubbles into the epoxy resin). Amounts greater than one gallon at a time can require up to 6-7 minutes of mixing.
3. After the two components are poured together and stirring begins the mixture will turn a cloudy white color, this represents areas in which the epoxy resin has not fully combined. You must continue to mix until all signs of cloudiness and tiny white lines have completely disappeared (usually takes 3-4 minutes of thorough mixing).
4. Always scrape the sides of your mixing container and also the stick during those 3-4 minutes. If UNMIXED epoxy resin remains on the side of the container or the stick it will cause wet spots on your finished product if that UNMIXED material falls into your project. TIP: While pouring your table top epoxy resin onto the surface NEVER scrape the container to remove every last drop, because no matter how thorough you mix there will always be an unmixed drop on the side of the container that will leave a wet spot.
