Question 1

What causes "shooting stars" in epoxy?

Accepted Answer

Shooting stars in epoxy are caused by improperly mixed pigments. To avoid this, mix resin and hardener for at least 3 minutes. You can also mix pigment into resin (A) 24 hours before use, then mix thoroughly with hardener (B) for 3 minutes.

Question 2

What causes an "orange peel" or "golf ball" texture on epoxy?

Accepted Answer

This texture is usually due to inadequate room temperature, likely too cold. To fix it, you need to sand and re-coat the epoxy, ensuring the room is maintained between 15 and 21°C.

Question 3

What causes craters or "fish eyes" in epoxy?

Accepted Answer

Craters occur when there's a reaction with a contaminant on the work surface, preventing epoxy adhesion. To resolve this, sand, clean with 99% isopropyl alcohol, and then re-coat with epoxy.

Question 4

Why is my epoxy drying too quickly and absorbing into the surface?

Accepted Answer

This happens if the room temperature is too hot. The ideal room temperature for epoxy application is between 15 and 21°C. You will need to sand and re-coat the surface.

Question 5

What causes cracks in wood and epoxy for river tables?

Accepted Answer

Cracks can occur if the wood was not dry enough or if epoxy was poured too quickly between layers. Ensure wood is completely dry and seal it with a layer of epoxy, letting it dry for 24 hours before the main pour. Wait 3 to 7 days between epoxy pours.

Question 6

What causes bubbles in epoxy?

Accepted Answer

Bubbles can be caused by mixing epoxy too quickly, applying it to a porous or damaged surface, or pouring a very thick layer. To mitigate this, let the mixed epoxy rest in warm water for 5 minutes and use a torch to remove surface bubbles. If bubbles persist, sand and re-coat. Using a squeegee helps spread the epoxy evenly.

Question 7

How do I deal with impurities or insects in my epoxy?

Accepted Answer

Maintain a clean working environment to minimize contaminants. If an insect gets trapped, sand the area and pour a new layer of epoxy over it. Never reuse an epoxy bucket, even after cleaning, as residual can cause contamination.

Question 8

What if my epoxy is not drying in certain areas?

Accepted Answer

This can be due to improperly mixed epoxy, pouring a second layer too soon, a room temperature that is too cold, using a hardener from a different brand, or incorporating water-based products. To fix this, apply sand to absorb the wet epoxy, sand the area, clean with xylene, sand again, and re-coat.

Maison Epoxy

Maison Epoxy