Whether you're a seasoned professional or a DIY enthusiast, these tips will help you get the most out of your epoxy resin projects. Shop TAP Epoxy Resins by clicking here. From improving adhesion to achieving a flawless finish, here’s everything you need to know.
1. Use a Heat Source for Better Flow
Tip: Warm the unmixed epoxy resin and hardener in a heat source like the sun or warm water. Epoxies work best when the resin and hardener are 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Why It Works:
- In cold weather, this accelerates the curing process.
- It significantly reduces viscosity, making the resin thinner and easier to mix.
- Warmed resin penetrates wood more effectively, providing superior waterproofing for end grains and rot-prone areas.
Note: Warming resin shortens working time, so be prepared to apply it immediately after mixing. Unlike solvent-thinned 'penetrating' epoxies, TAP epoxies are 100% solids and virtually odor-free. However, always exercise caution when heating. Find Resin Hardeners with different working times by clicking here.
2. DIY Wood Putty with Sawdust
Tip: Mix sawdust into epoxy to create a custom putty.
Why It Works:
- This putty forms a strong, gap-filling bond, perfect for attaching wood to irregular surfaces like brick or concrete.
- The waterproof bond is robust enough for structural support, making it ideal for furring strips and similar applications.
3. Protect Wood Posts with Sand-Filled Epoxy
Tip: Mix sand into epoxy to thicken it to the consistency of peanut butter.
Why It Works:
- Helps prevent wood posts set in concrete from rotting by forming a waterproof seal.
- Forms a strong bond while reducing the amount of epoxy needed by up to 60%.
Application:
- Trowel the sand-epoxy mix around the base of the post to create a coved shape, directing water away.
- Once the epoxy begins to gel, sprinkle dry sand on top.
- After curing, brush off the loose sand to reveal a textured surface that blends with the surrounding concrete but remains weatherproof.
- In addition, sand and epoxy is excellent for filling small holes in concrete.
4. Goop Epoxy Paste for Crown Molding
Tip: Use Goop Epoxy Paste to install crown molding in hard-to-nail areas, like around brick fireplaces.
Why It Works:
- The paste is sticky enough to hold molding in place while curing.
How to Apply:
- Spread a thin layer of Goop Epoxy Paste on the back of the molding.
- Press it into place and let it cure. No nails required!
5. Keep Resin Warm for Easy Handling
Tip: Store epoxy resin indoors during cold weather.
Why It Works:
- Cold resin is harder to mix and won’t penetrate as effectively.
6. Cold Weather Application
Tip: When working in cold conditions, mix the epoxy and leave it in the container until it begins to warm up from the curing reaction.
Why It Works:
- The warming indicates the curing process has started, ensuring the resin will penetrate effectively when applied.
- Remember, once the resin heats up, your working time is limited, so act quickly.
With these tips, you can tackle a variety of projects more efficiently and achieve professional results every time. Happy crafting!