LumberJocks Woodworking Forum banner

New guy question about epoxy

1K views 8 replies 7 participants last post by  runswithscissors 
#1 · (Edited by Moderator)
Hi all,

I personally don't have a vast amount of experience using 2 part epoxy. However, I'm aware of the fact that it isn't great to use in cold weather. I'm from Michigan and have almost finished a farmhouse style dining room table for a friend. He has requested that I epoxy the top and I would love to deliver the product he wants. My question is: how do I epoxy a table in the winter? I have a basement that isn't ventilated well enough and a garage that is separated from my house. I would appreciate and and all input on this matter. I'm looking for something cost efficient that won't burn my garage down or have the epoxy fail to set.
 
#4 ·
There are lots of 2 part epoxy companies out there and most of the ones designed for the marine industry offer both warm and cold setting formulas. I've used the cold formulas in the fifties without issue. FYI If you do use epoxy and the item is being used outdoors or subject to sunlight, you will need to top coat the epoxy with a Marine grade varnish or paint. Sunlight, specifically US rays, will breakdown the epoxy. Even if the epoxy manufacturer claims that their product has UV inhibitors in it! West systems epoxy is one of the biggest names in the marine/outdoor epoxy industry and offer a lot of great help on their website.
 
#8 ·
#9 ·
Epoxy puts out little in the way of volatiles, unlike polyester resins. But avoid getting the glue on your hands, as you can become sensitized to the hardener and get a rash. If that happens, you may not be able to use it again. If you do get it on your skin, removal is best with vinegar. Acetone works too, but I hate the fact that skin seems to absorb it.

Google "epoxy safety" online. It seems that uncured epoxy resins are not a hazard, though sanding dust can be a problem. I wouldn't worry much about ventilation when applying epoxy.
 
This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
Top