Table of Contents
Epoxy is a liquid resin that binds to the surface of the wood. It is used to protect the wood from moisture, prevent warping or cracking, and make it more durable. There are many different types of epoxy for wood finish available on the market today. This blog post discusses the top 4 best epoxies for wood finishes that are available on the market today.
Summary Of The Best Epoxy For Wood Finish
What are The Different Types of Epoxy for The Wood Finish?
People use four main categories when looking at which type of epoxy to buy: water-based, solvent-based, oil/solvent-based, and anaerobic (also known as “gap-filling”). Each has its pros and cons, but it typically comes down to what type of surface you are applying the epoxy finish on.
Water-based epoxy
Solvent-based epoxy
These types of epoxy provide a very strong finish that is extremely scratch resistant. However, they are flammable and the fumes can be harmful to your health. They also require a thorough cleaning after application because any residue left on surfaces will prevent paint or stains from adhering properly later on to wooden artifacts not giving a film-forming finish or end up forming multiple layers.
Oil/solvent-based epoxy
Oil / solvent-based finishes have been around for many years but have recently become more popular because they provide a higher level of durability than water-based epoxies. These types of epoxy are more time-consuming to apply, and require sanding between coats which can be quite messy; however, the finished product is extremely durable and long-lasting.
Anaerobic (gap-filling) epoxy
Gap-filling epoxies are typically used for larger gaps or cracks in wooden surfaces. This type of epoxy resin is not suitable for normal application on wood; rather, it can be used to repair furniture that has split due to changing weather conditions. The resins within the gap-filling finish expand when they come into contact with moisture; this causes them to fill the gap and harden over time.
What is The Best Epoxy for Wood Finishes?
There are many different types of epoxies available on the market today; however, this blog post focuses only on five top-quality options that have proven to be extremely popular among consumers. Each type is superior in its way; therefore, it is important to understand what it can be used for before buying.
RELATED: Is Epoxy Good For Wood? Pros, Cons, and Tips to Consider
The 5 Best Epoxy for Wood Finishes On Amazon
1. Behlen Solar-Lux Water-Based Epoxy Floor Finish
It is ideal for floors that have been sanded and stripped before application, as it will adhere much better; however, it can be applied over dirty floors and will still create a beautiful shine. This epoxy is perfect for indoor and outdoor use and can be applied by brush or spray.
Dry Time: 16-24 hours
Pros:
- Dries clear for a beautiful shine;
- Does not contain pigments, allowing the true color of wood to show through
- Ideal for both indoor and outdoor use
- Very durable finish with a high level of resistance to scratches and scrapes
- Water-based, therefore environmentally friendly
Cons:
- If the wood has previously been sanded or stripped, it will not adhere properly
- Must be applied over clean, stripped wood
- Not suitable for large gaps or cracks due to gap-filling epoxy
2. Rubio Monocoat Oil Plus 2C, PURE
It is also completely colorless when applied; therefore, the natural color of your wood will still show through. It is a perfect solution for anyone looking to give their furniture an aesthetically pleasing look while protecting it from damage at the same time.
Dry Time: 12-24 hours (varies depending on temperature and humidity)
Pros:
- Will not alter the look of your wood furniture
- Extremely easy to apply
- Can be used on both new or previously stained furniture
- High-level protection against water and dirt
- Completely colorless, allowing the natural look of wood to show through;
- Can be used both indoors or outdoors
Cons:
- Must be applied over clean wood that has been sanded to the bare surface
- It will not adhere properly if the furniture is unfinished or unpainted
3. Odie’s Oil
It is highly resistant to water and provides a beautiful matte finish that can be used on both indoor and outdoor surfaces.
You can use the oil in several ways, including brushing it on in thin coats or using a rag to wipe the oil onto your furniture. The oil will penetrate deeply into the wood and provides a long-lasting finish that is resistant to scratches.
Dry Time: Varies depending on temperature and humidity, but it will dry to the touch in 15-20 minutes.
Pros:
- Completely non-toxic, safe for both you and the environment
- Can be used on both new or previously stained wood
- The matte finish allows the natural color of the wood to show through
- Can be applied with a brush or rag
- Very durable finish that is resistant to scratches, moisture, and dirt damage
- Can be used both indoors and outdoors
Cons:
- Must apply oil in thin coats;
- It May not provide a high shine finish
- Must leave several hours between coats for best results.
4. Festool polish MPA 5010
Pros:
- Provides a high gloss finish with a protective coating
- Extremely durable finish that is resistant to moisture damage.
Cons:
- Must be applied with a Festool Random Orbital Sander or hand pad
- Not suitable for large gaps or cracks due to gap-filling epoxy
5. StoneCoat Countertop Epoxy
Dry Time: 30 minutes
Pros:
- Provides a high gloss finish with a protective coating
- Extremely durable, resistant to scratches and moisture damage
- Extremely easy to apply
Cons:
- Must be applied in a well-ventilated area, away from any open flames
- Not suitable for large gaps or cracks.
RELATED: Is Epoxy Good For Wood? Pros, Cons, and Tips to Consider
Components of Epoxy for Wood Finish
The epoxy coating contains the following chemicals:
- Pigment: used to give the coating its color.
- Filler: used for strengthening or filling purposes, such as wood grain or holes/cracks in the surface of the wood.
- Hardener: used to speed up curing time and increase the solidity of finish once applied.
- Epoxy Resin: made with industrial chemicals that bind together when mixed with the hardener, resulting in a durable coating that is resistant to outside elements.
How To Apply Epoxy For Wood Finish
There are a few key things to keep in mind when applying epoxy for wood finish.
- First, be sure that your surface is clean and free of any debris which may prevent the resin from adhering properly.
- Second, if you are using an oil or solvent-based version, it can take several days for complete curing time; therefore, do not apply it to surfaces exposed to liquids or weather over the next few days.
- Third, you should always mix and stir your resin thoroughly before applying it; this helps ensure a more even coating with fewer bubbles. It is also important to use protective gloves when working with epoxy for the wood finish as some versions can cause rashes and irritation.
- Be sure to apply a thin, even coat of the resin in your epoxy for the wood finish product; this allows it to properly adhere before hardening completely over time.
- It is also important not to overload surfaces such as floors with too much liquid or thick layers; doing so creates bubbles that can be difficult to remove once the epoxy for wood finish has dried.
- Finally, be sure that you have a dust mask on hand so that your lungs do not become clogged with fine particles of debris from sanding or sawing hardwood floors or furniture surfaces before applying your product. You should also wear protective gloves as some versions can cause rashes and irritation.
6 Things To Consider When Choosing Epoxy for Wood Finish
There are several factors to consider when you’re looking for epoxy coating:
1. Price
The price of epoxy for wood finish can vary widely depending on the brand and type you choose to use. It’s a good idea to consider the price of your epoxy for the wood finish as well as any other costs associated with it, such as protective gear or how many coats you’ll need to apply for a good surface.
2. Durability
The epoxy coating is known as being very durable, but how much you need will depend on what you’re using it for. For example, the more durable version you apply to your deck or fence will naturally be better for such outdoor applications.
However, its durability may not be as important if you’re using epoxy for the wood finish to protect cabinet doors or other indoor items.
3. Suitability
Epoxy, like any other coating, isn’t ideal for every surface. Epoxy, for instance, may be difficult to remove from certain surfaces, so it’s important to know the best type of epoxy for the wood finish before you begin.
Using this product on items like cabinets or delicate furniture is also not advisable.
4. Ease of application
There are several different types of epoxy for the wood finish; some are more difficult to apply than others. For instance, solvent-based epoxy requires that you thoroughly clean the area to be coated before applying, so it may not work well on surfaces with oil stains or other problems.
5. Appearance
If your epoxy coating is only an accent or decorative feature, then the color and texture of the epoxy may not matter much. However, if the purpose of your coating is to protect or cover parts of an object, then you may want to choose an epoxy for a wood finish that is the same color as your existing surface.
6. Reparability
Some epoxy coating products are not reparable if they crack or chip. It’s good to know ahead of time if your epoxy for the wood finish is reparable or if you will need to reapply it.
Epoxy For Wood Finish – FAQs
Why use epoxy for the wood finish?
There are many reasons to use epoxy for a wood finish on your furniture. First of all, the process is incredibly durable and will strengthen the wood of your furniture. Epoxy coatings are also easy to clean and will protect against stains, water damage, or other problems that can damage furniture.
In addition, epoxy for the wood finish is a very even coating that will provide the best possible protection no matter what type of wood you are working with.
Can I use epoxy for wood finish indoors?
Epoxy is a great coating to use on furniture that will be used indoors, but it’s important to choose the right epoxy for wood finish. For example, solvent-based epoxy is highly flammable and should never be used indoors. However, water-resistant or UV-cured versions of the epoxy are safe to use both indoors and outdoors.
Is epoxy waterproof?
Epoxy is a protective coating, so it’s naturally waterproof. However, if you are applying epoxy on a surface that will be exposed to water, such as a deck or fence, then it’s important to make sure that your epoxy is also waterproof.
How do you clean up epoxy?
Cleaning up epoxy for the wood finish is simple and easy. It’s important to read any instructions that come with your particular brand of epoxy for the wood finish to ensure that you are cleaning up the product correctly.
Most manufacturers advise not using water on epoxy, but instead suggest using mineral spirits, acetone, or other chemicals to clean up the epoxy coating.
Is epoxy heat resistant?
Yes, epoxy is heat resistant to around 120 degrees Celsius. However, if you are using it in an area that exceeds this temperature, you may want to choose epoxy for a wood finish that is suitable for higher temperatures.
Is epoxy coating long-lasting?
Epoxy is the longest-lasting of all coating products, which makes it ideal for wood finish. While some other types of coating may require reapplication after a few years, epoxy for the wood finish will last up to 20 years.
Is epoxy harmful to inhale?
Epoxy for the wood finish is considered a safe product to use. However, it’s always best to read the material safety data sheet that comes with your epoxy for the wood finish to make sure you know how the product will affect you before using it.
8 Reasons You Should Use Epoxy For Wood Finish
There are many reasons to use epoxy for a wood finish on your furniture:
- It is durable
- Easy to clean,
- Provides the best possible protection against stains and damage
- Epoxy is heat resistant and long-lasting
Epoxy coatings are one of the best ways to protect your wooden surfaces from wear and tear.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are several things to consider before choosing epoxy for the wood finish. By taking the time to research your options and understand what each type of epoxy has to offer, you can make sure that you select the best option for your needs. Epoxy is a great way to protect your furniture from damage, and it can also give it a beautiful finish. Be sure to keep these tips in mind when selecting epoxy
Reference: WikiHow
