Perhaps one of the most beloved epoxy projects is the epoxy countertop. Strong, clear, and easy to maintain, it remains one of the most popular uses for epoxy resin. As such, we often receive questions of various sorts about epoxy and its application as a countertop sealant.

In the sections below, we'll give our answers to some of the most common questions regarding epoxy countertops.

Epoxy Countertop FAQs

Many of the questions we receive about countertops have to do with how adequate epoxy is as a finish or about the process of applying epoxy to the countertop.

Here's a list of the questions we'll be answering:

• What are the potential disadvantages of using epoxy for countertops?
• How much does an epoxy countertop usually cost?
• Is epoxy strong enough to serve as a countertop surface?
• Can I apply epoxy over my current countertops?
• How do epoxy countertops differ from resin countertops?
• How many epoxy layers does a countertop need?
• How long does it take to complete an epoxy countertop?

Next, we'll answer each question one by one.

FAQ #1: What Are the Potential Disadvantages of Using Epoxy for Countertops?

While epoxy countertops carry many advantages, they're not without a few potential downsides. One notable limitation is their moderate heat resistance. Epoxy can typically withstand temperatures up to 135°F comfortably. Beyond this point, it may become susceptible to softening and other heat-related damage.

This issue isn't unique to epoxy; many countertop materials require careful handling of heat. The good news is that this concern can be easily managed. The use of pot holders and trivets can provide a protective layer between the epoxy surface and heated cookware, effectively dispersing the heat before it can transfer into the resin finish. Coasters for hot mugs and dishes can also provide a similar effect.

Another drawback is epoxy's tendency to yellow over time when consistently exposed to direct sunlight. Protecting your countertop from constant sunlight can help, as can incorporating mica powder pigments into the epoxy mixture before application. These pigments not only add color but can also reduce the visibility of any yellowing.

You can learn more about epoxy's specific limitations in our guide to the subject here.

FAQ #2: How Much Does an Epoxy Countertop Usually Cost?

The cost to epoxy a countertop can vary widely, depending on the size and scope of your project. Generally, a gallon of high-quality epoxy resin will range from $100 to $150.

Purchasing larger quantities often provides cost savings. Given that one gallon of our premium Primaloc Bar & Table Top Epoxy can cover up to 16 square feet for a flood coat and 48 square feet for a seal coat, you would calculate the cost by dividing your total square footage by these coverage rates as needed (typically a single seal coat and single flood coat are enough) and then multiplying by the price per gallon.

Remember, you'll also need to account for the cost of essential tools and supplies. If you choose to hire professionals to apply the epoxy, this will increase your overall cost but can provide peace of mind and ensure a high-quality finish.

For more on pricing out an epoxy project, read our article devoted to the subject.

FAQ #3: Is Epoxy Strong Enough to Serve as a Countertop?

Yes. Countertop projects are one of the primary ways epoxy gets applied as a sealant. After applied to a countertop and given time to cure, an epoxy resin finish will readily safeguard and preserve the substrate it has bonded to with ease.

When it comes to countertops, spring for a premium bar top epoxy to get the long-lasting results. This type of epoxy is what will best protect your countertop surfaces, which tend to be subjected to significant more physical wear and tear than, for instance, resin art would be.

Learn more about epoxy's role as a countertop sealant here.

FAQ #4: Can I Apply Epoxy Over My Current Countertops?

Giving your older countertops an epoxy finish is fine, as long as you've prepared the surfaces properly. Epoxy can bond with a wide range of substrate materials, so the main concern is the condition of the countertop and how clean it is prior to the epoxy coating.

Read our more in-depth answer to this question here.

FAQ #5: How Do Epoxy Countertops Differ from Resin Countertops?

The terms "epoxy countertop" and "resin countertop" often refer to the same thing. Generally, there isn't a substantial difference between the two when used in this context—they both refer to countertops finished with epoxy resin.

However, it's worth noting that "resin" can sometimes be a more generic term that includes different types of resins, such as polyester resin, which can also be used as a countertop finish.

When considered for a countertop, epoxy resin is the better choice due to its greater durability, ease of application, and crystal-clear finish. Polyester resin, while also a type of resin, is less commonly used for countertops and more frequently utilized in applications like boat building.

FAQ #6: How Many Epoxy Layers Does a Countertop Need?

In the majority of cases, a single epoxy seal coat and a single epoxy flood coat are all that is needed for an epoxy countertop project.

Once in a while, a countertop may call for a second seal coat or flood coat may feel prudent, either because of a highly porous surface or because objects are being embedded and the epoxy needs to be thick enough to immerse them.

Learn more about how thick an epoxy finish should be here.

FAQ #7: How Long Does It Take to Complete an Epoxy Countertop?

This is determined by various steps in the process, such as:

• Preparation: Before applying epoxy, the surface needs to be clean, dry, and free of any debris or damage. This preparation stage can take a couple hours to a day, depending on the condition of the countertop.
  
  
• Priming/Seal Coat: If you'll be applying a seal coat—which we recommend—to prevent air bubbles and ensure a smooth application, this layer needs to be applied and allowed to cure partially, typically taking about 4-6 hours to become tacky enough for the next layer.
  
  
• Applying the Flood Coat: The flood coat is the main layer of epoxy. After application, it usually needs to cure for at least 18-24 hours before it's dry to the touch, but that won't mean it's fully cured yet.
  
  
• Curing Time: Epoxy resin needs time to cure thoroughly before the countertop can be used. This curing process typically takes about 72 hours for the countertop to be functional (a point at which most creators feel comfortable with using it). However, the epoxy will continue to harden and reach its maximum strength over the next several days to weeks, often up to 30 days.
  
  
• Additional Coats or Finishes: If more than one flood coat is necessary or if you're adding colors or patterns, additional time will be required between coats. Extra coatings are rare, however, and typically only done for certain types of projects involving embedments or special visual effects.

In total, while the active work might be completed within a few days, the entire process from start to finish—considering full curing time—can take up to a month for the epoxy to fully cure and exhibit optimal durability and resistance.

For practical purposes, plan for at least a week before the countertop can be used lightly, with full use recommended only after the epoxy has fully cured.

See answers to curing related questions in our Curing FAQs article here.

Primaloc Epoxy: Premium Epoxy for Premium Results

When it comes to epoxy resin, Primaloc Epoxy gets the job done. Our epoxy resin is 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.