Table Top Epoxy Application

1 gallon of mixed epoxy contains 231 cubic inches ofvolume; therefore will cover approx.
1.6 square feet at 1 inch thick and approx 6.5 square feet at ¼ inch thick. Coverage must include surfaces,
edges, and an extra 2%for run off on the edges.
 
SURFACE PREPARATION:

Although it is not possible to address every type of surface the following is a generic
guideline: Bare wood should be sealed with a thin coat of epoxy, decoupage articles should be
tested for color fastness prior to application. When recoating an existing coating the coating
should be scuff sanded and cleaned with a cleaning solvent. Denatured Alcohol or Isopropanol 99% are
recommended. Be sure that the surface and the epoxy to be mixed are at the same temperature.
Preferrably 75-85 deg.F.
 
MIXING:

Mixing is the most important part of the project. Improper mixing will cause soft or tacky
spots in the surface. First be sure you are preparing to mix containers of Hardener and
Resin, believe it or not mistakes happen, check the labels. Graduat ed mixing containers are
recommended for measuring and mixing. Hand mixing with a paint type stir stick is recommended,
mixes should not exceed 1.5 gal. Continual mixing including sweeping the sides and bottom of the
mixing container while mixing should take approx 3 minutes. The product may cloud a little
during mixing but will clear as mixing nears completion. It is important to mix without inducing air.
After mixing is complete, allow the mix to stand 3-5 minutes and remix for approx.30 seconds.
The completed mix should then be poured into a separate container for the final pour.
The reason for this is that no matter how complete the mix is, there are unmixed portions
on the sides and bottom of the mixing container.
 
APPLICATION:

Epoxy is self leveling, therefore the surface must be level foruniformity. The epoxy may
be poured on the surface and spread with a plastic hand squeegee or a dust free foam brush.
It is not recommended to apply more than 1/8 in. Thick percoat.
Thick films are achieved through multiple coats. Once the epoxy is applied to the desired
thickness tiny air bubbles will appear on the surface. The bubbles need to be eliminated
by passing the flame of a propane torch systematically over the surface keeping the flame
at least 3 inches from the surface. The same technique can be used with a heat gun.
It will be necessary to repeat this process until the bubbles stop surfacing. You
will now have a glass like surface.
 
CURE TIME:

Cure times will vary with temperature and thickness.Fiberglass Supply Depot Klear Kote
will be tack free in a 1/8 in film at 77deg,F in approximately 8 hrs.and ready for service in 24 hrs.
Important note: Even though the film will appear hard the epoxy will not reach full cure for 14 days.
Therefore,do not leave objects on the surface until fully cured.
When used for bars or table tops any hot items like coffee cups hot plates etc.over 140deg.F
will leave a ring or impression on most any epoxy.The use of saucers under cups and heat
resistant pads under hot plates are recommended to preserve the finish.
 
IMPORTANT NOTES ABOUT EPOXY:

Epoxies cure through chemical reaction. The chemical reaction generates heat,
 the greater the mass of epoxy the faster the reaction occurs.Pot life is measured with about
4-0z.Of epoxy @ 77deg.F.Therefore a stated 40 minute pot life is for those 4 ounces. 1.5gal
mixes in a bucket will only have a 10-15 min pot life. Epoxies will amber slightly when
exposed to sunlight, even for only several hours and will chalk in exterior applications.
For exterior application a topcoat with a UV inhibited Urethane is recommended.
Blemishes caused by contaminants or suicidal insects can be sanded out and recoated
without ruining clarity. If this is your first experience with Epoxy-
EXPERIMENT ON A SIMILAR SURFACE before making a big mistake.

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