Epoxy Resin For Wood
Industrial Clear seals and protects wooden surfaces from damage with a lustrous, high-gloss finish. Whether you’re creating a charcuterie board, or upgrading a table, countertop, or floor, Industrial Clear is formulated to provide a protective solution that enhances the natural beauty of wood. Browse our collection and discover the many benefits of using Industrial Clear epoxy for your next wood project.
Can I seal wood with Industrial Clear?
Yes, a thin layer of Industrial Clear epoxy resin is an excellent way to seal wood before a flood coat. A sealant coat acts as a barrier, filling the pores of the wood to prevent trapped air from releasing into the resin as bubbles.
Use a foam brush or gloved hands to apply a thin coat of Industrial Clear, taking particular care to cover cracks, voids and knots. Allow the sealant to dry thoroughly, then lightly sand to create some tooth for the next resin layer. Next, wipe the surface clean of sanding debris and apply the final flood coat of Industrial Clear.
It’s important to note that very dry wood or certain types of wood can absorb resin like a sponge, so you may need to apply several thin coats of sealant. Adding this simple step to your process will help achieve a smooth, bubble-free finish on wood surfaces. 
Can epoxy resin be used on any type of wood surface?
Yes, Industrial Clear has excellent adhesion and will bond to various types of wood surfaces, as long as the wood is dry and clean. Moisture in wood may cause resin to cure cloudy or delaminate but, most importantly, it can cause wood to expand and contract with fluctuating temperature and humidity. This places stress on the resin, eventually causing it to crack.
Before applying resin, remove oil, grease, or wax by sanding to ensure proper adhesion. It’s worth noting that epoxy resin can alter the color of wood and cause it to look darker. This is typically for the better, enhancing wood's color and grain, but it’s advised to conduct a small sample test first. If the resin changes the color in a way you don’t want, seal the wood first with a clear drying wood sealant (other than resin) to help preserve the original look.
How long does it take for epoxy resin to cure on wood?
Industrial Clear epoxy resin for wood dries to the touch at standard room temperature within 24 hours of pouring, and it becomes rock hard after a full cure of 48 hours. Epoxy resin cure times are affected by temperature: resin takes longer to cure in cooler temperatures, while warmer temperatures promote a faster cure. The ideal temperature for curing is 70-80°F (21-27°C) and must be maintained for the first 24 hours.
If the resin is still tacky after 24 hours, increase the temperature. If the resin remains sticky, even after 24 hours in warmer temperatures, this indicates that it will not cure any further. In such instances, additional measures will need to be taken.
Do I need to prepare wood before epoxy resin?
Wood should be clean and dry before applying Industrial Clear epoxy resin, and any surface contaminants such as wax or oil should be sanded off. Remove dust, loose bark, or fibers to prevent them from curing in the resin coat.
Wood should be totally dry before applying a coat of Industrial Clear, especially if intended for outdoor use. Moisture in wood can adversely affect resin’s adhesion and cure. It can also cause the wood to expand and contract with the weather, leading to cracking of the resin over time.
To prevent air bubbles from forming in the final coat of epoxy resin, apply 1-2 sealant coats using a foam brush to dry wood. After allowing the sealant to cure for 24 hours, lightly sand the surface before applying the final flood coat of resin. Be aware that epoxy resin can change the color of wood. Apply a small amount of resin to an inconspicuous spot so you know what to expect. If the result is not what you want, seal the wood first with a wood sealant (rather than resin) to help preserve the original look.
💡 Cracks or holes in the wood should be taped to prevent the resin from leaking. To learn how this is done, see our blog How To Fix Wood Holes, Knots, And Cracks With Epoxy Resin.
How long does epoxy last on wood?
Industrial Clear epoxy resin for wood cures to a rock-hard finish that will last for decades with proper care. Factors that determine its longevity include the amount of wear and tear it is exposed to and the conditions in which the project is kept.For best results, allow the resin to cure for a full 48 hours before use, avoid long-term UV exposure, and do not expose the resin to temperatures beyond 350°F (176°C).
Be aware that the resin surface can become scratched by sharp objects. In the event this happens, a scratched surface can be refinished with a fresh resin coat.
💡 Calculate how much epoxy resin you need.
Interested in learning more? See our blog Top 10 Tips When Using Epoxy Resin On Wood
Industrial Clear: Rock Hard Epoxy Resin.
