Question 1

What causes a 'comet - shooting star' effect in epoxy?

Accepted Answer

This effect is caused by improperly mixed pigments. To avoid it, mix your resin and hardener (A and B) for a minimum of 3 minutes. You can also mix your pigment into resin (A) 24 hours before use, then mix thoroughly with hardener (B) for 3 minutes.

Question 2

Why does my epoxy have an 'orange peel' or 'golf ball' texture?

Accepted Answer

This texture occurs when the room temperature is too cold. You will need to sand and re-pour 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 are caused by contamination on the work surface. The epoxy will not adhere to the contaminated area, creating surface tension and pushing the epoxy away. To fix this, sand the surface, clean it with 99% isopropyl alcohol, and then re-pour the epoxy.

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

This happens when the room temperature is too hot. The room temperature should be between 15 and 21°C. You will need to sand and re-pour the epoxy.

Question 5

What causes cracks in wood and epoxy for river tables?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 6

What causes bubbles in epoxy?

Accepted Answer

Bubbles can be caused by mixing epoxy too quickly, pouring onto a porous or damaged surface, or using a thick epoxy layer without spreading it properly. To minimize bubbles, let the mixed epoxy sit for 5 minutes in a second bucket of warm water, then quickly pass a torch over the surface. If bubbles persist, you may need to sand and re-pour.

Question 7

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

Accepted Answer

Maintain a clean work environment to minimize contaminants. If an insect gets trapped, you can sand the area and re-pour over it. Never reuse an epoxy bucket, as residual amounts can act as a contaminant.

Question 8

Why is my epoxy not drying in some areas?

Accepted Answer

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

Maison Epoxy

Maison Epoxy