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Clear Epoxy Resin

People often as about clear epoxies (and epoxy paints) to use on table tops and craft projects. The problem is that all epoxies will yellow over time and especially under UV sunlight. A clear epoxy turns yellow, a white epoxy turns golden, blue epoxies turn sort of green. Epoxies are often sold in dark colors that don't show the yellowing they undergo. The  best for yellowing is a coat of 'regular' pigmented paint over the epoxy to stop the UV rays. The epoxy does the work (sealing, chemical protection, waterproofing etc) and the pigmented top coat provides the right 'look'.

While all epoxies will yellow (and you cannot add UV blockers to thermoset resin systems like epoxies) there are some epoxies that yellow more and yellow quicker. Do not believe anyone that claims to have a non yellowing epoxy or an epoxy with UV protection (other than pigment).

Best approach to outdoor clear epoxies is to keep them covered with not in use, so that they only get a few hours of sun each week. Also use dark or tan/brown or yellowish colors under the epoxy so that the yellowing is not so obvious (never never a snowy white background).

There are a few products that can stop or slow the UV yellowing. One is marine spar varnish (not sold in California), which has is own sort of light amber or yellow tint. The other is two part auto clear coat polyurethane, as well as Progressive Epoxy Polymers Inc. 2 part poly, Acrylic Poly UV plus (which is cheaper than auto clear coat) and not for sale in Southern Calif.). Pretty much all non epoxy clear coats lack extensive UV protection additives. They are simply too expensive and generally not needed. The products listed above are the exceptions.

Call Paul (the Epoxy Guru) at 603 435 7199 anytime to talk more, talk about

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