Within the domain of synthetic resins exists a wide selection of epoxy types. Best known for its incredible strength, each epoxy variant has its own specialty. Some are best for repairs, others for finishing, a few for art and similar crafts, and still more in the creation of composite materials. This diverse set of uses allows epoxy to serve a vast range of functions.
But because epoxy is so versatile, with so many types to choose from, it can be overwhelming for newcomers who'd like to complete a project of their own, whether it be finishing a table top surface or crafting a work of resin art.
While epoxy is remarkably DIY friendly, it still helps to have some understanding beforehand, both for determining the right type you'll need for your project, and for knowing what to do as you begin working with it.
In this article, we'll talk about the three types of epoxy primarily used for finishing surfaces such as bar tops, countertops, and table tops, as well as in the creation of resin art and more involved projects like river tables and epoxy river trays.
The three primary types of craft epoxy
Among epoxy types, there are three best known for their use in finishing and crafting. These are table top epoxy, deep pour epoxy, and art epoxy. Generally, each of these epoxy types serves a distinct set of purposes—though there is some overlap, for instance, between table top epoxy and art epoxy.
For example, table top epoxies tend to be stronger but only suited for thin layers. While they are exceptional for finishing bar tops and table tops, they're less than ideal for use in any kind of resin art that demands a thick layer or involves deep casting. We'll delve more into the unique benefits of each further below.
At UltraClear, we offer a premium version of each of these, which can be found on the following pages:
Below, we'll take a closer look at each type.
#1: Table Top Epoxy
Renowned for its durability, table top epoxy is by far the strongest craft epoxy option. This type of epoxy is specifically designed to handle high stress; a good table top epoxy can withstand heavy impact without cracking and will endure even substantial wear and tear in high-traffic environments without any issues.
Here's what you can expect from UltraClear Bar & Table Top Epoxy:
- Top-Tier Durability—This epoxy is the strongest of the craft epoxy offerings. When put to the test, our UltraClear variant rated a 98 out of 100 on the Shore hardness test using a Type-D durometer.
- Crystal-Clear Transparency—In addition to its physical strength, this epoxy also cures to clean, transparent finish. That means it will clearly showcase any underlying materials such as the beautiful grain of a wooden substrate.
- Chemical Resilience—This epoxy is not only waterproof, but also resistant to a wide range of common chemicals, enabling users to clean up messes before they're able to cause any long-term damage.
- Full Customization—UltraClear Bar & Table Top Epoxy is highly receptive to colorants and embedments, allowing for a completely personalized finish that showcases the creator's aesthetic preferences.
Bar & Table Top Epoxy is ideal for the following projects:
- Countertop and bar top finishes, including those featuring live-edge wood.
- Table top finishes, including those featuring live-edge wood.
- Benches and similar seating made from solid materials.
Click here to learn which materials bond best with epoxy here.
#2: Deep Pour Epoxy
In contrast to table top epoxy, which is designed for physical strength, the goal of a deep pour epoxy is to allow for extra thick epoxy layers to be poured. It has a less viscous consistency (i.e., more watery), which prevents air from getting trapped within it as easily.
This adjustment to the formula provides two additional features:
- Deep pour epoxy supports much thicker individual pours without developing blemishes or imperfections. Fewer air bubbles get trapped within, making them easier to remove.
- Deep pour epoxy can be used for deep casting, a requisite for certain types of resin art, to create unusual shapes of various sizes without curing problems.
When working with deep pour epoxy, it's highly recommended you spring for something of premium quality, as the more involved manufacturing process required to produce it can go awry, leading to problems with low-quality brands during usage.
Here's what you can expect from our premium UltraClear Deep Pour Epoxy:
- A Pristine Finish—This epoxy cures to a transparent state, boasting exceptional clarity even through high-depth epoxy layers.
- Versatility—Compared to other epoxy types, deep pour flows quickly—almost like water—enabling it to conform to intricate shapes within resin molds. Just be sure to put up barriers if need be, as it'll flow over edges when not contained!
- Extensive Lifespan—If treated properly, UltraClear Deep Pour Epoxy will last a minimum of 7 years—potentially more!
- Full Customization—For those looking to further personalize their creations, deep pour epoxy is also highly receptive to colorants and embedments, allowing for a completely personalized finish that showcases the creator's aesthetic preferences.
Though it's less durable than its table top counterpart, UltraClear Deep Pour Epoxy still features high physical and chemical resilience with a waterproof surface.
Deep Pour Epoxy is ideal for the following projects:
- The river vein of a river table. Though these usually run lengthwise along the center of a table, they can also be present elsewhere (e.g., the outer edge of the table).
- Any type of resin art that requires deep casting or filling in thick molds.
- Thick layers of epoxy (greater than 1/4 inch)
#3: Art & Craft Epoxy
Art epoxy is specifically designed for artistic and decorative applications, with its own features that set it apart from table top epoxy and deep pour epoxy. It typically has a medium viscosity, making it easier to manipulate for detailed work such as creating textures, layers, or intricate designs; it also produces a balance between flow and control that allows for greater precision in artistic applications.
Here's what you can expect from UltraClear Art and Craft Epoxy:
- Generous Working Time—This epoxy boasts a much longer working time (usually 30–45 minutes) than table top epoxies, giving artists enough flexibility to blend colors, create effects, and make adjustments.
- Resistant to Yellowing—Formulated to prevent yellowing, this epoxy excels at preserving the clarity of artistic pieces.
- Superb Color Dispersion—Colorants can be easily dispersed or suspended throughout this art epoxy for extensive amounts of time, allowing for users to finetune their work before curing.
- Impeccable Clarity—UltraClear Art & Craft Epoxy cures to an exceptionally clear surface, allowing embedments, colorants, and substrate materials to show through.
Art & Craft Epoxy is ideal for the following projects:
- Perfect for creating jewelry and similar creations
- Resin coasters, trays, and small tables and paintings
- Resin art pieces, especially those that require intricate designs, layers, or special effects
UltraClear Epoxy: Resin products of unmatched quality
As with any material, epoxy resin has both pros and cons. But no other sealant has so few weaknesses, and that's what puts epoxy above all other options when it comes to being a finish for high-traffic fixtures and furniture such as countertops, table tops, and bar tops. And among epoxy resin products, there are none that match the quality of UltraClear.
You can find our UltraClear Epoxy products on the following pages:
- UltraClear Bar & Table Top Epoxy: The classic choice for bar tops, countertops, and table tops. Rock-solid, waterproof, and crystal-clear.
- UltraClear Deep Pour Epoxy: Our deep pour casting resin. Ideal for thick layers, such as those needed for river tables.
- UltraClear Art & Craft Epoxy: Our arts and crafts resin, designed for smaller artistic endeavors which typically involve resin molds and require a bit more fluidity than bar top epoxy.
Epoxies that endure, with minimal upkeep
With high chemical and physical resistance, UltraClear resins can withstand and endure many forms of wear and tear without breaking a sweat or showcasing any cosmetic damage.
Plus, in addition to its ease of application, they also require little upkeep to maintain its pristine appearance. With a high-quality epoxy finish, you can expect a minimum lifespan of 7 years, with no need for reapplication. Beyond that, it's a breeze to renew that coating, requiring only a light sanding and a fresh layer of epoxy.
Expert support from our resin specialists
For more information about epoxy, or for assistance with your epoxy project, contact us at UltraClear Epoxy, where you can speak with one of our epoxy experts. During business hours, you can also text chat online with one of our resin specialists by clicking the Help button at the bottom of your screen.
