As people decide to enhance their homes and other spaces with personalized projects, epoxy resin continues to leap forward in popularity in the past few years.
If you’ve never used epoxy before, you may be unsure about how to get a smooth epoxy surface on your first try. Luckily, several key pieces of information will help you create a resin project that’s just what you were hoping for.
Keep reading for five epoxy mistakes to watch out for as a resin beginner.
1. Failing to Read the Instructions
This one may sound like a no-brainer, but glancing over the instructions before beginning to mix the epoxy doesn’t count.
Every epoxy brand is different, meaning the directions for how to use the epoxy successfully will be different as well. Before jumping in, make sure you read all of the instructions in detail to be sure you know which steps to take. If you are using MAS Epodecor, you can find the detailed technical instructions here.
2. Using Epoxy at the Wrong Temperature Range
Epoxy won’t mix well or harden if it’s poured in the wrong environment. This includes temperatures that are super cold or super hot, as well as high humidity.
The instructions will tell you which temperature for epoxy is best for pouring, but it will most likely be between 70 degrees Fahrenheit and 75 degrees Fahrenheit (with a few degrees of wiggle room). Try to stick to the recommended temperature range both as you’re pouring the epoxy and the entire time it’s hardening for the best results.
3. Mixing Epoxy Incorrectly
This is one of the most important steps when applying epoxy resin but also one of the easiest to mess up.
Most epoxy resin is mixed using two different parts: resin and hardener. Your specific resin brand will tell you the ratio to use when mixing these two parts, and it’s crucial to follow that ratio exactly (for example, 100:35 for MAS Epodecor #1000). If the ratio isn’t mixed correctly, your project may end up tacky or uncured.
4. Pouring Epoxy Over an Unprepared Surface
It’s easy to get excited about pouring your epoxy and forget to prepare your project for the coating. This includes dusting off the surface to get rid of any dirt or unwanted particles, as well as ensuring the surface isn’t wet. This will help the epoxy cure at its best.
In preparation for epoxy coatings, it’s also a good idea to place sheets of plastic (like a trash bag or plastic tablecloth) over surfaces you don’t want to be damaged to keep them protected.
5. Forgetting to Use Proper Gear and Ventilation
Epoxy resin is a chemical, and no matter how much of it you’re using, it’s important to take the project preparation seriously.
Make sure the area where you’re working is well-ventilated, opening any nearby windows or doors if possible. It’s also recommended that you wear protective glasses and gloves so the resin doesn’t get on your skin or in your eyes, as this can cause harm.
Avoid These Epoxy Mistakes to Ensure a Successful Project
Not all projects have to involve epoxy mistakes. By avoiding these five instances, you’ll be on your way to a beautifully crafted resin project. If you want to get more ideas on epoxy decor and learn more about epoxy resin advantages, check out our blog here.
Take a look at the rest of our website to see how we can help you turn a room into everything you envision. We’re here to bring the paint and colour into your space.