Completing an epoxy project involves navigating various core phases, and occasionally, a few optional ones. When handled properly, each phase is relatively straightforward, requiring just a few instructions to be followed carefully. However, user error is always a possibilty, one that can impact the final quality of the resulting finish.

Issues such as cloudiness, a tenuous bond, or incomplete curing are potential consequences of missteps in the epoxy application process, even when using high-quality products like our Primaloc Bar & Table Top Epoxy.

In this article, we'll highlight 5 common problems that can arise from user errors during the epoxy application process. Understanding these issues and knowing how to avoid them will set you up to achieve a flawless, crystal-clear finish in your epoxy projects.

The 5 Most Common Epoxy Blemishes and How to Prevent Them

Working with epoxy can sometimes lead to challenges, especially if certain aspects of the application process are overlooked. Below, we discuss five frequent issues that many encounter during their epoxy projects:

1. Air Bubbles: Tiny air pockets that can mar the surface of your epoxy.

2. Cloudy Resin: A lack of clarity that affects the aesthetic appeal of the epoxy.

3. Yellowing: A discoloration that can occur over time or due to exposure to UV light.

4. Tacky Surface or Soft Spots: Areas where the epoxy has not cured properly, remaining sticky or soft.

5. Deep Cracks and Scratches: Significant fissures or marks that compromise both appearance and structural integrity.

Each of these problems can stem from common, avoidable mistakes. We will examine each issue in detail, explaining their causes and how you can prevent them to ensure a successful epoxy application.

Epoxy Blemish #1: Air Bubbles

Air bubbles, which are small pockets of air trapped within an epoxy finish, represent the most frequent complication faced by those using epoxy.

What Causes Air Bubbles?

There are two main sources of air bubbles in epoxy:

The First Source Is Pores in the Substrate Material

Almost all substrate materials have some level of porosity, which inherently contains air. When epoxy is applied, it seeps into these pores, displacing the air. Due to the viscosity of epoxy, air may struggle to escape to the surface and, if trapped, forms bubbles within the resin.

The Second Source Is Induction During Epoxy Batch Preparation and Application

Air can be introduced into the epoxy during the measuring, mixing, or pouring stages. This often happens if excessive force is used while mixing—either manually or with a power drill—or if the epoxy is poured improperly.

Avoiding Air Bubbles

Here are effective strategies to prevent air bubbles in your epoxy finish:

• Apply a Seal Coat: Start with a thin epoxy seal coat on your substrate. This initial layer helps to push out air from the pores preemptively, facilitating its escape before applying thicker layers.

• Careful Mixing: Use stir sticks for mixing small batches and avoid vigorous stirring. For larger batches where a power drill is necessary, keep the speed moderate and the mixing attachment fully submerged to minimize air incorporation.

• Deliberate Pouring: Pour the epoxy slowly and steadily from a low height to prevent air from being drawn into the liquid.

• Removing Existing Bubbles: After pouring, any remaining air bubbles can be quickly addressed using a heat gun or blow torch. Gently apply heat to the surface, which helps the trapped air expand and rise to the surface where it can burst and escape.

By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the occurrence of air bubbles and ensure a smoother, clearer epoxy finish.

Epoxy Blemish #2: Cloudy Resin

A cloudy finish in epoxy is characterized by a loss of transparency, resulting in a murky appearance. Although less common than air bubbles, encountering a cloudy finish can be quite frustrating.

What Causes a Cloudy Finish?

Several factors can lead to a cloudy epoxy finish:

• Presence of Moisture: This can be due to non-epoxy liquids or high humidity during the curing process.

• Curing Outside Suitable Temperature Range: Epoxy needs a specific temperature range to cure properly; deviations can affect clarity.

• Inadequate Mixing: Insufficient blending of the resin and hardener can lead to incomplete reactions and cloudiness.

• Contaminants: Foreign particles like dust or debris can get embedded in the epoxy, affecting its clarity.

Moisture is often the primary culprit, particularly high ambient humidity, which can introduce moisture into the resin.

Avoiding a Cloudy Finish

To ensure a clear and transparent epoxy finish, consider the following precautions:

• Control Liquids: Keep your workspace free from spills and non-epoxy liquids that might interfere with the epoxy.

• Manage Humidity and Temperature: Ensure the humidity level is below 60% and the temperature is within the suitable range for your specific epoxy type. While 75°F is generally ideal, check the specifications for your epoxy as this can vary.

• Thorough Mixing: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing your epoxy thoroughly to ensure a proper cure.

• Prevent Contamination: Be vigilant about keeping the workspace clean to avoid the introduction of dust and other particles into the wet epoxy.

By addressing these factors, you can greatly reduce the likelihood of a cloudy finish and ensure your epoxy project results in a clear, aesthetically pleasing outcome.

Get more tips on achieving a perfect cure here!

Epoxy Blemish #3: Yellowing

Yellowing is an issue that can occur in epoxy due to aging, particularly if the epoxy remains unmixed or is exposed to UV radiation, commonly from sunlight.

What Causes Epoxy to Yellow?

• Aging: Epoxy generally has a shelf life of about one year when unopened. Once opened and exposed to oxygen, the yellowing process accelerates, reducing its shelf life to approximately two months.

• UV Radiation: Exposure to UV light, especially direct sunlight, can cause the epoxy to yellow over time. The rate of yellowing increases with continuous exposure to UV rays.

How to Avoid Yellowing:

• Shade and Shelter: For outdoor epoxy projects, providing protection from direct sunlight can significantly reduce the risk of yellowing. Consider placing epoxy-coated items in shaded areas or using covers to shield them from UV exposure.

• Use UV-Resistant Additives: Incorporating UV blockers or stabilizers into the epoxy mix can help prevent yellowing. Alternatively, using mica powder pigments can also slow down or even halt the yellowing process due to their reflective properties.

• Proper Storage and Usage: Ensure that epoxy is stored in a cool, dark place and used within its shelf life. Once opened, try to use the epoxy as soon as possible to maintain its clarity and prevent premature yellowing.

By taking these preventive measures, you can help maintain the clarity and aesthetic quality of your epoxy projects, especially those that are exposed to elements or are in use for extended periods.

Epoxy Blemish #4: Tacky Surface or Soft Spots

Sometimes, during the curing process, epoxy can develop a tacky surface or have various soft spots throughout the finish.

Causes of Tacky Surfaces and Soft Spots:

• Incorrect Mixing Ratios: Using the wrong proportions of resin and hardener.

• Inadequate Mixing: Failing to mix the components thoroughly.

• Using Old Epoxy Components: Epoxy that has surpassed its shelf life may not cure properly.

• Moisture Exposure: Humidity or direct moisture contact during the curing process.

These factors can hinder the epoxy from curing completely, resulting in a surface that remains sticky or partially hardened areas with soft spots.

How to Avoid These Issues:

The prevention methods for tacky surfaces and soft spots are similar to those for avoiding a cloudy finish:

• Precise Measurement: Ensure you measure the epoxy components accurately according to the manufacturer's specified ratio.

• Thorough Mixing: Mix the epoxy thoroughly, following the detailed instructions provided with your epoxy product.

• Use Fresh Epoxy: Avoid using old epoxy components. If your epoxy is over a year old and shows signs of aging such as yellowing, it's best to obtain fresh materials for your project.

• Control Your Environment: Maintain a workspace with low humidity and keep the temperature within the optimal range for curing your specific type of epoxy.

By addressing these factors, you can ensure your epoxy cures to a hard, uniform finish without tackiness or soft spots.

Epoxy Blemish #5: Deep Cracks and Scratches

Last on our list of issues you might encounter with an epoxy finish is the formation of deep scratches or cracks.

Cause of Cracks and Scratches:

The primary cause of these defects is mistreatment or excessive force. Despite its durability, epoxy is not entirely immune to physical damage. Harsh impacts or rough handling can lead to visible cracks or scratches on the surface of the cured epoxy.

How to Avoid This Problem:

Preventing damage to epoxy surfaces is relatively straightforward:

• Avoid Excessive Force: Be mindful of the amount of stress you place on epoxy surfaces. Avoid dropping heavy objects on them or hitting them with force.
• Use Protective Measures: If the epoxy surface is used in a high-traffic area or for activities that might lead to scratches or dents, consider using protective covers or pads.
• Handle with Care: Avoid using sharp objects like knives directly on the epoxy surface to prevent scratches.
• Routine Maintenance: While epoxy doesn’t require much maintenance, regular cleaning and occasional checks for any signs of wear can help maintain its appearance and integrity.

By following these simple guidelines, you can help ensure that your epoxy surfaces remain smooth and free from significant physical damage for years to come.

Substandard Resin: A Common Cause of Epoxy Issues

A fundamental factor behind many epoxy-related issues is the use of inferior quality resin.

Importance of High-Quality Epoxy Resin:

When selecting an epoxy resin for your projects, it's important to choose a product that is reputable and known for its strength and clarity post-cure. The online market is flooded with numerous epoxy brands that may appear cost-effective but are often inferior in quality. These products may be sourced from the same manufacturers despite being sold under different brand names, typically offering imported resins that have compromised quality to maintain a low price point.

Benefits of Choosing a Reputable Dealer:

Purchasing your epoxy from a credible and reputable dealer offers several advantages:

• Quality Assurance: You're assured of the resin’s quality and its ability to cure with a clear, durable finish.
• Customer Support: Reputable dealers provide reliable customer service, offering assistance and support post-purchase, ensuring you have guidance should any issues arise.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing you have a high-quality product eliminates the anxiety of potential project failures due to material deficiencies.

By investing in a high-quality epoxy like our Primaloc resins not only secures the success of your project but also provides long-term value and satisfaction.

Primaloc Epoxy: Premium Epoxy for Premium Results

With our premium Bar & Table Top Epoxy and our Deep Pour Epoxy, Primaloc gets the job done. Our epoxy resins are premium-grade, with high performance in every category, including:

• Unmatched Strength: A Primaloc finish won't buckle, even under high pressure.
• Long-Lasting Resilience: Primaloc epoxy lasts for many years with minimal care, and can endure high-traffic environments with ease.
• A Crystal-Clear Coating: With its pristine, transparent appearance, looking at a cured Primaloc coating is like peering through a window.

Epoxy resin can be beautiful, strong, and long-lasting—which is why you shouldn't compromise on quality. With Primaloc Epoxy Resin, you get the ultimate finish in durability and visual appeal.

Protect your surfaces by giving them a rock-solid epoxy finish. Choose strong. Choose reliable. Choose Primaloc.