Among crafters, epoxy resin is admired for its versatility as a sealant applied to various fixtures—like bar tops and countertops—and furniture—including table tops, benches, and chairs. Additionally, its purpose also extends to artistic endeavors, including wall art, jewelry, tumblers, pottery, trays, coasters, and more.

But achieving the iconic crystal-clear finish epoxy is known for demands meticulous attention to every phase of the process. While performing each of these phases is relatively straightforward, they all require careful handling.

In this article, we'll discuss how to proper pour epoxy, with a particular focus on applying a coating over a still-tacky layer.

Epoxy Resin's Pouring Phase

Pouring epoxy resin is one of the simpler tasks in the process. First, you mix the epoxy in a large container after carefully measuring the components, then apply it to the chosen substrate.

Tips for Pouring Epoxy

Pouring epoxy resin doesn’t require much finesse, but there are some basic tips that newcomers should keep in mind.

When pouring, keep the mixing container close to the substrate to minimize air bubble formation. This will make the subsequent air bubble removal step much easier.

Although most epoxy resins are self-leveling, meaning they spread evenly by themselves, guiding the container slowly across the surface as you pour can help achieve a more even distribution over the substrate.

And finally, don't pour your epoxy out too quickly. Let it flow smoothly from the container to prevent air from being pulled into the resin as it moves.

For more detailed instructions on mixing and pouring, refer to our guide here.

Can You Pour Epoxy Onto a Sticky Epoxy Layer?

One issue that some users have when working with epoxy is needing an additional layer of epoxy resin. This may be because they want a thicker finish, or perhaps because the first layer isn't curing properly, or because they want to topcoat a deep pour layer with a table top epoxy seal.

Regardless, applying epoxy to a sticky epoxy surface is something that comes up on occasion, so we're going to explain when you can, what to do, and why it might be that way even when it shouldn't.

Yes, In Most Cases It's Fine to Pour Epoxy Over Sticky Epoxy

Generally speaking, you can pour a new coat of epoxy right over the previous coat, even if it's sticky. However, you may need to do a couple minor things to prepare the surface first.

You can always pour epoxy onto a sticky epoxy layer if both of these are true:

• Between 4 to 10 hours have passed since the previous layer. 4 to 10 hours is the ideal time frame to apply an additional layer of epoxy resin.
  
  
• Both the previous and current resin batches were measure and mixed properly. Getting a clean blend is essential to achieving a proper bond, a full hardened cure, and a clear epoxy finish.

If, instead, any of the following is true, you'll need to do additional prep:

• More than 10 hours have passed since the previous batch. At this point the epoxy will require a light sanding to make it receptive to an additional coating and ensure a strong bond.
  
  
• If the epoxy is still sticky after 24 hours. In cases like this, something has likely gone wrong. This issue often arises due to mistakes during the mixing step.

What Can Cause Epoxy to Stay Sticky Even After the Curing Phase?

Occasionally, an epoxy coating will fail to fully cure, instead staying soft, wet, or sticky. Though there's a variety of potential causes, a few are much more common than others.

Here are the reasons that epoxy might be sticky even after typical curing time:

• Improper Mixing—Proper blending is important for a clean cure.
• An Unsuitable Climate—Getting the right temp and humidity is essential for curing.
• Using Subpar Epoxy Resin—Watch out for low-grade epoxy brands. They're often much cheaper, but at a severe cost to the quality of the finish.

Reason #1: The Epoxy Wasn't Mixed Properly

When working with epoxy resin, it's important to measure the components—resin and hardener—accurately, being sure to maintain the correct ratio.

Next, mix the epoxy diligently, making sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the container periodically to ensure the components blend completely. This thorough mixing is what initiates the curing process.

At first, it may seem like a painstaking process, but guaranteeing that your batch is well-mixed is actually easier than it might appear. The number one trick is simply to follow the instructions provided with your specific brand of epoxy.

Reason #2: The Climate of Your Project Area Was Unsuitable for Epoxy

When performing an epoxy project, there are certain environment conditions that need to be maintained for an ideal outcome. These are related to temperature and humidity.

The ideal surrounding temperature for most epoxy resins is 75°F. The higher the temperature is beyond this, the more quickly your epoxy will start to cure. At a certain point above 75°F, the epoxy may begin to cure with imperfections, such as yellowing, air bubbles, or even a weaker finish.

The ideal humidity, on the other hand, is 60% or below. In a room with extra-high humidity, an epoxy finish may fail to cure properly, as moisture from the air can contaminate the finish. The finish may appear cloudy, manifest with a weaker bond, or even be unable to harden fully.

So, when working on an epoxy project, keep your environment at:

• 75°F (some epoxies may fare well between 70°F to 80°F)
• 60% or below humidity

Reason #3: A Subpar Epoxy Resin Was Used

Cured epoxy resin is known for its strength and clarity. However, the effectiveness of the resin depends significantly on its quality and manufacturing process.

Regrettably, many suppliers today have unclear sourcing methods or lack a reliable history, typically resulting in the distribution of inferior epoxy resin products.

To ensure you avoid these substandard products, it's crucial to select a reputable source for high-quality epoxy resin. Choose a provider that prioritizes quality over profit, ensuring you get a product that performs as expected.

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.