Epoxy resin comes in many different variants. Much of those are used for industrial construction, with a special selection being available to DIY users and home renovators. At Primaloc, we specialize in these DIY epoxies, particularly two of the most effective variants; these are table top epoxy and its less conventional alternative deep pour epoxy.

In this guide, we'll take a look at the details of deep pour epoxy resin, exploring the interesting ways it can be used, and discussing how it differs from more common variants like table top epoxy. Additionally, we'll highlight some of the typical epoxy projects that make good use of it before finally answering various questions we've received about deep pour and its limitations.

What Is Deep Pour Epoxy?

Deep pour epoxy is a type of epoxy resin specifically designed for pouring in thicker layers than traditional epoxy resins (e.g., table top epoxy). Its distinguishing feature is the ability to cure properly without overheating when poured in depths of up to one full inch or more at a time. This makes it ideal for applications where a thicker coating or casting is desired, such as in crafting a river table, casting large molds, embedding objects, or filling voids in wood.

Unlike standard epoxy resins, which are typically limited to thinner coats due to their exothermic curing process (which generates heat), deep pour epoxy resins are engineered to have a lower heat-generating reaction and a potentially longer curing time. This allows them to cure evenly and thoroughly without overheating or cracking, even in deep pours.

Deep pour epoxy resins often have a lower viscosity or are specifically formulated to reduce air entrapment, which helps prevent the formation of bubbles in the thicker layers. They may also have a longer pot life.

Overall, deep pour epoxy enables users to create stunning, durable, and functional pieces with much thicker coatings or castings, providing versatility for a wide range of artistic, woodworking, and DIY projects.

At Primaloc, we offer a premium variant of Deep Pour Epoxy, with a refined formula that allows for pouring resin layers up to 2 inches thick.

How Does Deep Pour Epoxy Differ from Conventional Table Top Epoxy?

There are several key aspects in which deep pour and table top epoxies diverge:

• Physical Strength: Deep pour epoxy is slightly less durable than table top epoxies tend to be. To achieve a lower viscosity with much deeper layer support, deep pour epoxy has to give up some of its durability.
  
  
• Pouring Depth: Deep pour epoxy can be poured in much deeper layers than table top epoxies. The average table top epoxy can be poured in layers of 1/16 inch at a time, with anything deeper risking flaws and imperfections. Even our Primaloc Table Top Epoxy is limited to 1/8 inch. But with Primaloc Deep Pour Epoxy, you can achieve layers of up to 2 inches deep at a time, a far thicker layer.
  
  
• Working Time: For any epoxy variant, once you've mixed it together, you'll have a limited amount of time to apply it. This is called the working time. As a side effect of their different formulation, deep pour epoxies tend to have a much longer working time, typically around 30 to 45 minutes (this varies by brand). This is much more convenient than the 5 to 10 minutes generally afforded by table top epoxies.
  
  
• Mixing Ratio: Each variant of epoxy has its own mixing ratio. For many epoxies, this is 1:1 (resin to hardener), but others might be 2:1, 3:1, even as high as 5:1.
  
  Deep pours are rarely the same as their table top counterparts. For instance, Primaloc Deep Pour Epoxy uses a 2:1 ratio of resin to hardener, while Primaloc Bar & Table Top Epoxy uses a 1:1 ratio. This aspect is extra relevant because its easy to measure incorrectly and end up with epoxy that doesn't cure properly.

Which Type of Project Is Deep Pour Epoxy Best Suited for?

Deep pour epoxy is best suited for projects that can take advantage of its unique deep layer support. Some common projects that are well-suited for deep pour epoxy include:

River Tables

River tables are created by filling a void or recess in a wood slab with epoxy resin, often to mimic the appearance of a flowing river. Deep pour epoxy is ideal for this application as it can be poured in thicker layers to create depth and clarity, allowing for stunning visual effects.

Casting Large Molds

Deep pour epoxy can be used to cast large molds for sculptures, art installations, and decorative objects. Its ability to cure evenly in thick layers makes it suitable for creating intricate designs and capturing fine details.

Embedded Objects

Deep pour epoxy can be used to embed objects such as stones, shells, coins, or memorabilia into resin for decorative or functional purposes. Its high viscosity and air release properties help prevent bubbles from forming around the embedded objects, resulting in a clear, professional-looking finish.

Bar and Countertops

With deep pour epoxy, you can coat bar tops, countertops, and tabletops with a thick, glossy layer that provides durability and protection. It can also be tinted or combined with additives like metallic powders or glitter for customized effects.

Filling Voids in Wood

Deep pour epoxy is commonly used to fill voids, cracks, and knots in wood to stabilize the surface and create a smooth, level finish. It can also enhance the natural beauty of the wood by adding depth and clarity to imperfections.

Depending on how shallow these things are, table top epoxy might also be suitable.

Artistic Resin Projects

Recently, deep pour epoxy has also become popular among artists and craftsmen for creating resin art pieces, including sculptures, jewelry, and decorative objects. Its versatility and ability to cure in thick layers make it suitable for a wide range of artistic applications.

Overall, deep pour epoxy offers versatility and durability for a variety of projects that require thicker coatings or castings. Its ability to cure evenly in deep pours makes it a preferred choice for creating visually stunning and long-lasting pieces in woodworking, art, and design.

How Beginner Friendly Is Deep Pour Epoxy?

Deep pour epoxy can vary in beginner-friendliness depending on factors such as the specific product used, the project complexity, and the user's level of experience with epoxy resin. Below are some considerations for newcomers.

#1: Choosing a Resin Product

Choosing a beginner-friendly deep pour epoxy product is essential. Some brands offer formulations specifically designed for ease of use, with features like extended working times, reduced viscosity for easier pouring, and improved air release properties to minimize bubbles.

Reading reviews and selecting a product with clear instructions and beginner-friendly characteristics can help simplify the process.

At Primaloc, our premium Deep Pour Epoxy is highly amenable to resin beginners and professionals alike. It features an extensive working time, low viscosity, and highly receptive to additives such as epoxy powder pigments.

#2: Understanding the Process

Before strating your project, take time to read through the instructions.

It's good to know what your brand recommends for the following:

• Mixing ratio. How much resin to hardener you should use.
• Curing times. How long you should let the epoxy cure.
• Climate conditions. What temperatures/humidity to maintain while the project cures.

Any supplier of a good epoxy product will provide this information with your order, and you should also be able to look it up online as needed.

#3: Practice on Small Projects

Before tackling a large, complex project, consider starting with a smaller, simpler project to become more familiar with the epoxy process. This provides experience with mixing, pouring, and curing techniques on a smaller scale, which you can make use of in a more ambitious endeavor.

#4: Preparation is Key

Proper surface preparation is crucial for successful epoxy projects. When starting, you should ensure that the surface is clean, dry, level, and free of dust, debris, and contaminants before applying the epoxy resin.

Taking the time to prepare the surface properly can help prevent issues such as adhesion problems, air bubbles, and uneven curing.

#5: Safety First

Epoxy resins contain chemicals that can be harmful if not handled properly. Beginners should always follow safety precautions, such as wearing gloves, goggles, and a respirator in a well-ventilated area.

It's also essential to read and understand the epoxy instructions provided by the manufacturer and to take appropriate measures to protect oneself and the surrounding workspace.

When In Doubt, Ask for Assistance

For beginners who are unsure or hesitant about working with deep pour epoxy, seeking guidance from more experienced individuals or resources can be invaluable. This could involve taking a workshop or class, watching tutorial videos, or joining online communities where beginners can ask questions and receive advice from seasoned epoxy enthusiasts.

Performing your first deep pour epoxy project may seem daunting, but with the right preparation, practice, and guidance, it can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

Deep Pour Epoxy FAQs

Question #1: Is Deep Pour Epoxy Food Safe?

The food safety of deep pour epoxy varies by brand. Some manufacturers of epoxy cut corners during the production process, leading to unsafe products.

However, our Primaloc Deep Pour Epoxy, once fully cured, becomes inert and is considered food safe.

While we advise against directly preparing food on it due to potential surface scratching from sharp knives and softening under high heat, incidental contact with the epoxy poses no more risk than with most other plastics.

Learn more about the food safety of Primaloc epoxies as well as what the FDA has said on the issue in our guide here.

Question #2: Is Deep Pour Epoxy Transparent Like Table Top Epoxy?

Yes. Much like with Primaloc Table Top Epoxy, our Deep Pour Epoxy cures to a clear, transparent finish.

Question #3: Is Primaloc Deep Pour Epoxy heat resistant?

Yes. Our deep pour epoxy features a medium level of heat resistance.

Question #4: Is It Safe to Run Any Kind of Epoxy Item in the Dishwasher?

No. Dishwashers use intense heat to sanitize their contents, and epoxy is not suited for this kind of cleaning. Fortunately, though, epoxy is actually super easy to clean.

Mild dish soap and warm water will clean most forms of residue or debris off of any kind of epoxy surface or object. For stubborn substances, you can use a multi-surface cleaner or glass cleaner.

Learn more about cleaning epoxy surfaces here.

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.