If you’re new to epoxy or if it’s been a while since your last encounter with this versatile material, there are several things you can do ensure that your experience is a positive one. First and foremost, READ THE INSTRUCTIONS!! You can avoid many common mistakes by simply taking the time to carefully read the manufacturer’s directions. Resist the urge to make assumptions about epoxy products! Taking a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the product can save a great deal of time in the long run and eliminate unnecessary frustration with the things that could potentially go wrong.
Epoxy Mistake #1: Improper Mixing
Many epoxies are sold as two-component products and must be mixed prior to application. Mixing mistakes can lead to the epoxy hardening too quickly, too slowly or in the worst cases, not at all. The mixing ratio can vary and the instructions may specify to mix “by-weight” or “by-volume”. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines will ensure that the product cures in the manner in which it is meant to.
Mixing a proper quantity is important as well. The amount of material mixed may have an effect on the pot-life of the product. Mixing a batch that is too large can generate a great deal of heat, causing the product to harden too quickly. Failing to mix enough can prevent a proper chemical reaction from taking place, significantly slowing down the curing process or stopping it altogether.
Thoroughly combining the epoxy components is essential. Some epoxy products feature two different colored components allowing for easy recognition of complete mixing. In these cases, the product should be a completely uniform color before being applied.
If you look closely you can see colored streaks of part A and part B. This product is NOT properly mixed.
Epoxy Mistake #2: Choosing the Wrong Product
The versatility of epoxy products is incredible. They can be used as bonding agents, structural fillers, paints and coatings, encapsulants for electronics, and molding and casting compounds, among other things. Be sure to select the proper product for your project because they are not necessarily interchangeable. The best products are designed to have features that coordinate with specific projects. If you’re unsure about the right product to use, contact the manufacturer and solicit a recommendation. Abatron’s customer service can be reached at 800-445-1754.
Don’t use a concrete patching epoxy for repairs to your wood windows.
Epoxy Mistake #3: Ignoring the Weather
When working with epoxy, consider the temperature. Most epoxies have an application temperature range in which the products will cure correctly. For example, Abatron’s wood repair products, LiquidWood® and WoodEpox®, have a suggested application temperature range of 50-90° F. Applying products outside of the suggested range can lead to extremely long or short curing times or overall product failures.
For exterior applications, keeping epoxies dry is another important consideration. Moisture in general (including humidity) can slow down or stop proper curing. If rain is expected, you’re probably better off saving your outdoor project for another time.
Probably best to wait for a nicer day (if possible).
Epoxy Mistake #4: Improper Storage
This one is simple: keep the lids on tightly and store epoxies someplace warm when they’re not being used (60-75° F). With temperature fluctuations, epoxies can undergo a process commonly referred to as crystallization. The process solidifies and stiffens the liquid molecules of epoxy resins making them hard and dense. This process increases with exposure to cold temperature, so keep epoxies inside and warm when they’re not being used.
As a further precaution, solid epoxy putties and fillers can be stored in zip-lock bags in order to limit any exposure to air. If you know it will be a while before the next time you use the product, contact the manufacturer or check the instructions for storage tips.
Not a good place to store epoxy!
Epoxy Mistake #5: Skipping Surface Preparation
Surface preparation is necessary for any successful epoxy application. Surfaces should be clean, dry and free of grease, oil dirt and debris prior to product application. In some cases, scuffing the surface by sanding or grinding may be advised to promote a better bond. Select products can be used on damp or wet surfaces, but make sure that this is stated in the product’s instructions. Skipping this step can lead to bonding issues or delamination over time.
Preparing the surface is vital for success!
Abatron manufactures hundreds of epoxy products for countless applications. Specific instructions are included with each product. Our technical support staff is available Monday-Friday, 7a.m. – 5p.m (Central Standard Time).
Call 800/445-1754 or visit our website at www.abatron.com for further information.
I received the wood epoxy via Amazon. I opened the containers and both materials are like play doh or kids putty. How do I fix this? Can it be fixed?
That is the correct consistency of the product.
I didn’t realize that incorrectly mixing your epoxy can cause it to harden prematurely. My uncle is interested in opening an auto repair shop and wanted to use epoxy to protect his flooring, but he doesn’t have any experience when it comes to proper mixing. It may be best for him to hire an inspection service to ensure that is epoxy is properly applied.
How long can these items be kept between applications. That would help me determine how much to order. Thanks
There is at least a one year shelf life, even much longer, for the products.
I am hoping your product will work on wood trim on house that has not been repainted for 10 years. I have not climbed a ladder but it looks like there is some rot. It is not supporting lumber. Do you think your product would fill in what needs it. I plan to repaint.
Yes. You can use the LiquidWood and WoodEpox for your repairs.
Can I use epoxy wood and liquid wood over painted wood? The wood is so fragile that it is impossible to get all the paint off without the wood breaking apart.
It’s always best to apply the products to the bare wood, so it bonds with the bare wood. LiquidWood will not penetrate through a painted surface. You could always drill hole and inject it. WoodEpox will bond to paint, but keep in mind, it’s always preferable for it to bond to the bare wood.
Can I used oil paint on top of liquid wood?
If if is slightly tacky can I paint?
You can use whatever type of paint you’d like. If painting directly over LiquidWood you should scuff the surface so the paint adheres well to it. You should not paint over LiquidWood while it is still tacky, you should wait for it to cure hard and/or smooth.
2 questions. At around 75 degrees, how long do I wait for Liquid Wood to cure before applying Wood Epox over it? Also, can I just mix Liquid Wood by shaking it in a closed container, or should I do it with a paddle?
Thanks!
YOu can apply WoodEpox over Liquid wood within 1-3 hours or once the LiquidWood is tacky to the touch. You should mix the LiquidWood throughly. I would suggest using some sort of stir stick.
What is the drying time before priming or staining?
24-48 hours
I got started repairing a rotted window sill and had to stop for 2 weeeks. I have half of the sill patched with wood epox now. Do I need to reapply the liquid wood?
You can apply a thin layer of LiquidWood, allow it to get sticky, then apply the WoodEpox.
What are the implications for curing if I apply Liquid Wood at noon on a day with highs about 60-62, overnight low about 50, but then after that, cold weather comes in and temperatures are mostly in the 30s and 40s. I would like to apply some sort of epoxy filler but not until its ok to do so.
You can apply LiquidWood in temps of at least 50 degrees. After applying LiquidWood, once it become tacky, you can apply the WoodEpox over the top of it. You can apply direct heat to help accelerate the curing process.
If the high temperature is forecast to be mid to upper 50’s and nightime low in low 40’s, is it safe to apply the Liquid Wood and WoodEpox?
We are heading into colder weather and I really need to fix some wood on my pergola so it doesn’t deteriorate more over the winter. Any recommendations on how i can do this “on the edge” of the recommended temperatures?
Temps should be at least 50 degrees 2 hours prior to and 2 hours after application of the products. You can use heat to help accelerate the curing process.