Best Countertop Epoxy – How to make Epoxy Resin Countertops

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If you would like to redo the countertop surface in your home without spending much money, then epoxy for countertops can be a great idea. These don’t necessarily require professional help and can be installed at a very reasonable price. Not only this, but epoxy countertops can be poured in over any kind of existing surfaces. To top it all off, epoxy countertops look great, they are seriously durable and will provide a completely fresh feel to your home. Let’s explore some solutions for the best countertop epoxy, and how you can create these countertops at home.

 

 

 

What Are Epoxy Resin Countertops?

Epoxy resin countertops are very durable surfaces that can be used in the home. These countertops are resistant to spills, stains, and general wear. For any countertop areas that experience a lot of use, epoxy is an excellent choice to install. Epoxy countertop kits are available for convenient solutions.

When putting in an epoxy countertop, there are various considerations to remember with regards to the price. Usually, epoxy is used to refurbish or uplift existing countertops. These can be old or damaged surfaces. As it is so durable, epoxy can even be used on the floors.

Already made resin-based countertops are available for purchase. These range in pricing and aesthetics, but are much more convenient than pouring them yourself. The downside is that you cannot customize these countertops to your exact needs. However, the best countertop epoxy needs to be made and poured into place. Ideally, these countertops are made uniquely for each scenario.

Epoxy resin is considered a ‘solid-surface’ material. Its popularity comes from its exceptional strength and durability. Epoxy can withstand many years of hard use and can handle all kinds of cleaning chemicals, scratches, and more without losing its shiny finish.

 

 

Best Countertop Epoxy Reviews

There are many different types of epoxy resin out there that can be used for countertops. Opting for quality over a cheap price tag is recommended, as good quality epoxy resin makes a major difference. Below are three of the best epoxy countertop kits available. The products chosen from these countertop epoxy reviews offer some of the best solutions in their respective categories.

 

Best Quality – STONE COAT Countertops Epoxy

This epoxy resin has been specially formulated for use on countertops, making it the ideal product for new counters or restoring old ones. The resin comes in 2 half-gallon jugs (epoxy and hardener), creating 1 gallon of mixed epoxy resin. This product is UV protected, scratch-resistant, shiny, and incredibly durable.

 

The Stone Coat countertops epoxy has been specially formulated for an easy do it yourself approach. This can save you loads on hiring a professional. This epoxy is also food safe and has good heat resistance. When it comes to finding a quality finish for your epoxy countertops, then this would be an ideal choice. This would be our first choice for the best epoxy for countertops.

 

Most Affordable – INCREDIBLE SOLUTIONS Table and Bar Top Epoxy Resin

Even though this tabletop resin by Incredible Solutions is so well priced, it still offers some excellent quality. The resin is completely clear and will resist any yellowing. This makes it an ideal solution for indoor and outdoor use.

 

The resin is UV resistant, self-leveling (making it easier to apply), and offers a high gloss durable finish. It is also food-safe, making it ideal for kitchen counters. The resin comes in 2 half-gallon bottles, producing a full gallon of epoxy resin when mixed. The formula is also low odor, contains zero VOC, and offers a consistent thickness.

 

 

Best Price/Performance – SUPERCLEAR Table Top Epoxy Kit

For the attractive price tag, this epoxy for countertops by Superclear offers excellent performance. The resin is a simple 1:1 ratio easy to use kit. You get 1 gallon of epoxy resin in total after combining the hardener and epoxy

 

This resin is self-leveling and has an incredibly high level of gloss. In terms of durability, the resin is UV resistant, scratch and water-resistant, crystal clear, and easy to clean. As it is so clear and easy to mix, this also a good choice of epoxy for mixing in pigment. If you are after the best epoxy for countertops but don’t want to spend too much, then this is a smart choice.

 

Epoxy Resin Countertop Considerations

 

Epoxy resin is an amazing substance that can provide a wide range of benefits. However, there are always some important considerations when working with this material. Here are some of the pros and cons of using resin as a countertop surface.

 

 

The Cost of Installing Epoxy Countertops

Installing an epoxy resin countertop is not necessarily that difficult, but it does require quite a bit of effort. Getting professional help often comes recommended. While epoxy is a reasonably affordable surface, it is important to take the costs into consideration.

In fact, the installation cost may exceed the actual cost of materials – as the effort of pouring in epoxy is greater than the cost of the epoxy itself. Always budget some extra money for the installation. The larger the area, the more you will end up spending on materials and labor. The best epoxy for countertops can be fairly easy to install, but there are always things to consider when putting it in.

Compared to other countertop surfaces like plastic or laminates, epoxy can be considerably more expensive. However, it is of much higher quality, and will certainly last longer. Over the long run, any additional costs for epoxy resin countertops can be well worth it.

 

 

DIY Epoxy Countertop Installation

Compared to surfaces like granite and marble, installing an epoxy countertop can be incredibly cost-effective. The final cost will depend on the surface area required, how many layers you pour, and the quality of resin used. However, you can save some money here if you want to take this on as a DIY project. Yes, it will require some skills and effort, but any confident DIYers could happily take this task on.

 

Applying Epoxy Countertops

Pouring your own epoxy countertops can save money and help you to achieve customized, specific designs. However, the process will take significant effort and time.

Epoxy resin comes in a liquid state and involves two separate parts. When making countertops, you will need to mix the epoxy with a hardener. This needs to done precisely. Once the mixture has been created, you will need to work fairly quickly before it hardens.

Poured epoxy resin is smooth and shiny. It can also be textured though if you choose a textured option to install. Once the final layer of epoxy has cured, you can add an additional protective layer for enhanced durability.

 

 

How to Pour an Epoxy Countertop

Think you want to pour your own epoxy countertops? Great, because this can be a highly rewarding activity. Below is a step by step guide on how to pour an epoxy countertop.

 

Make Sure the Surface is Clean

When you pour the epoxy, it seals everything underneath it permanently. For this reason, you must make sure that there is no dust, dirt, or grease on the countertop before you pour the epoxy resin. Make sure that the surface you will be pouring over is thoroughly cleaned. Any dirt trapped underneath the epoxy could even cause a rough surface.

 

Protect the Surrounds

Once the epoxy resin has hardened, it is nearly impossible to clean up and remove. It is essential to cover any surrounding areas that you don’t want to mess on, as an epoxy spill can result in being a serious issue. Use plastic sheeting o cover the floors and surrounding furniture. Even adding a wooden barrier around the countertop to prevent drips is a good idea.

 

Create a Seal First

First, apply a thin layer of epoxy resin to the countertop. This is called a seal, and the technique is called flooding. The aim of this is to reduce the number of air bubbles that could occur when pouring the resin.

 

Work Quickly

Once you have created the right mixture, the epoxy resin will harden fairly quickly. Therefore, it is important to work efficiently. Get rid of any air bubbles as quickly as you can (a hairdryer is a good tool for this). Mixing smaller quantities of epoxy resin at a time can be a good idea.

 

Applying the Second Layer

Once you have applied the first layer, the resin will need to completely set before a second coat can be applied. Depending on the resin and circumstances, this could anywhere between 4 to 20 hours. After about 48 hours, you will have a perfectly cured, shiny epoxy countertop.

 

 

Pouring Epoxy Onto a Laminate Countertop

Epoxy resin can also be used to restore and uplift old or stained laminate surfaces. If you have a laminate countertop that is looking a bit worse for wear, you can use epoxy to restore its appearance. This looks fantastic, and it will also add extra durability to the surface.

 

Preparing Laminate Countertops

In order to apply a coat of epoxy resin, the surface finish of laminate countertops needs to be removed. This is best done by sanding it down with sandpaper until the shiny coating has been taken off. Once sanded down, the surface needs to be properly cleaned to make sure that no dust particles or residue are left behind.

Then protect any areas where you don’t want epoxy resin. Masking tape can be used to protect the sides of the counter from drips, and plastic sheeting can be spread over the floor and furniture.

 

Priming and Mixing

Before laying down the epoxy coating, adding a layer of adhesive primer is a good idea. Try to use a primer that is specially designed for shiny surfaces. This gives you a tougher finish for the epoxy coating to be poured over.

Once the primer has been applied and properly dried, it’s time to mix the resin with the hardener. This needs to be done very carefully in order to reach the right consistency. Remember not to mix too much epoxy at once, and to work quickly with it once mixed.

 

Applying the Epoxy

Once the primer is properly dried, it’s time to add the epoxy coating. First, apply a thin layer using a roller or paintbrush. Apply the epoxy using single directional strokes. Then once the resin is starting to set, use a scraper to remove any lumps and to make sure that the surface is smooth.

Once the initial coat has been properly cured, you can add a second layer. You apply the second layer just as you did the first. You can continue adding layers (after each one is properly set) until you reach the desired thickness and look. It’s best to wait about 2 days before the countertop is fully cured and set before using it.

 

Finishing Touches

Once the final coat of epoxy has set, you can remove any masking tape and plastic covers. For enhanced durability and protection, it’s best to finish the countertop resin off with a layer of polyurethane top coating. The polyurethane can be applied in about 4 or 5 coats (let each one dry before adding the next one). This should be left for about 12 hours after the last coat before using the countertop.

 

 

Different Countertop Resin Designs

Epoxy countertops can be made in all kinds of different styles, colors, and patterns. This can be done by adding designs to the existing countertop, or by including effects into the epoxy.

Some of these effects include embedding objects into the epoxy (bits of glass, beads, coins, bottle caps, etc), or even embedding LED lighting into it. However, a simple clear coating of epoxy over wood or other surfaces always looks great.

 

Color Designs With Epoxy Resin

Epoxy resin is a clear product, but it can be changed by adding different paints and color pigments. Special resin tints are available for this. This can be done by choosing a base color, and then adding an accent color to further enhance this. You could even add a metallic powder for further effects.

Other effects could include glitter, and making realistic patterns in the resin. Some people try to achieve results that look like marble or stone in the resin.

 

 

Cleaning Epoxy Countertops

Cleaning cured epoxy resin is easy, as basically all types of chemicals and cleaning products can be used on it. The best countertop epoxy has been designed for easy cleaning.

 

Maintaining the Shine

Keeping the shine and luster of your epoxy counter is easy. All you need to do is wipe it with a small bit of mineral oil every once in a while (once a month should do). Just don’t add too much, as this could result in the surface becoming cloudy. Using a good quality epoxy should result in a durable surface that maintains its shine and doesn’t stain. Special countertop epoxy kits are made to maintain their shine for longer.

 

Don’t Use Abrasive Cleaners

Try not to use any abrasive cleaners as these can leave marks on the resin surface, and cause the resin to become a bit duller. Wax, polishes, and scouring pads should be avoided. Countertop epoxy kits may be durable, but abrasive cleaners should always be avoided.

 

Avoiding Stains

With epoxy countertops, there is the risk of leaving a stain. To avoid this, make sure that you wipe up any spills or marks straight away. Any stains on a countertop epoxy kit can be fixed though with this method:

• Make a mixture of 4 parts baking soda to 1 part water
• Spread this paste over the stained area and let it sit for about 5 minutes
• Wipe this mixture off with a cloth and the stain should come off with it

 If this doesn’t work, then you could use acetone or thinners to remove the stain. Simply rub this over the stained area with some pressure to remove the stain. Just don’t use bleach, as this will create a new stain.

 

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Can You Use Epoxy Resin On Countertops?

Epoxy resin can be applied directly to countertops for a glossy, durable finish. This resin is seriously tough, long-lasting, and resistant to damage. There are different options for the best countertop epoxy, offering specialized formulas for use on counters and tabletops.

 

Are Epoxy Countertops Scratch-Free?

Epoxy may be seriously strong, but it is not completely resistant to scratches. However, some high-quality epoxy resins are made to be scratch-resistant. This just depends on the resin you use, and how you treat it. Be sure to check out the countertop epoxy reviews for more information on this.

 

How Much Do Epoxy Countertops Cost?

Epoxy countertops generally range between $70 to $130 per square foot. Compared to granite countertops, that cost around $100 – $200 per square foot, epoxy can be a much more affordable and still long-lasting choice.

 

Can You Put Countertop Resin Over a Laminate Counter?

Yes, epoxy is a great tool for refinishing damaged or worn laminate counters. Epoxy can be easily applied to laminate countertops for a completely new finish and look.

 

If you are looking to uplift or redo your home, then the best countertop epoxy can provide a wonderful effect. This material is perfect for countertops, as it is very durable, fairly easy to use, and more affordable than many other countertop options. Be sure to consider epoxy for countertops, as you can get many years of shine from this practical finish.