What Is Epoxy: Understanding the Basics of Stone Bond Epoxy

What is epoxy? This is one of the most frequently asked questions that we receive at Stone Bond. There are many lengthy and scientific answers to this question but the simple answer is that epoxy is a type of plastic. Stone Bond epoxy is a two-part epoxy that we make from our own proprietary blend. Each kit that we offer, whether in 1-gallon form or in 10-gallon form, comes with equal parts of hardener and resin.

So how does the epoxy work? The liquid hardener and liquid resin do not form epoxy until they are actually blended together. Once equal amounts are combined together, a chemical reaction starts. Because of this chemical reaction, epoxy does not technically dry. Instead of drying the epoxy actually cures. Once the hardener and resin are combined, the mixture will begin to heat. This heating is what allows the epoxy to cure and ultimately become hard.

Because of the chemical reaction that begins when the epoxy resin and the epoxy hardener are combined, there is no way to stop the curing process. Epoxy is also a somewhat finicky material in that it responds differently in hot and cold temperatures. When the winter chill comes, epoxy will become very thick, almost like molasses. However in the heat of summer epoxy can become as thin as water. Because of this, the temperature will dramatically effect the time it takes for epoxy to cure.

For example, if the outside temperature is around 80 degrees, epoxy has a pot life of around 15 minutes. However if the temperature is around 40 degrees, the same epoxy will have a pot life of approximately 25 minutes. This is what makes our 2 part epoxy better. You can mix as little or as much as you desire, depending on the situation.

Stone Bond epoxy is unique from most other epoxies in that it is clear and it mixes with equal parts of each ingredient. Clear epoxy is great for a variety of projects because it does not discolor your base or the materials that you are working with. Being able to mix your epoxy in equal parts is a double bonus because it allows you to mix small quantities and store any un-mixed epoxy until it is needed at a later time.

We have proudly produced our own epoxy since 1993. The same epoxy that we offer to the public is the very same epoxy that we use on a daily basis. Our epoxy can be used in a variety of ways and over the next few weeks we will be showcasing some of the projects that you can tackle on your own. To give you an idea about some of the ways that Stone Bond epoxy can be used here is a quick list:

Epoxy Ideas

* Resurfacing existing epoxy stone decking

* Epoxy Countertops

* Surfacing a tabletop

* Decoupage doors

* Transforming garage floors

These are just a few of the many ways that you can use epoxy. Stay tuned to the Stone Bond epoxy blog to get inspiration for your next DIY project and don’t forget to purchase your epoxy here.

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