What is Epoxy?

Epoxy, and epoxy adhesives, are popular products to use for DIY and paid trades work. They’re versatile and long-lasting products suitable for a variety of different projects. You use epoxy in scenarios or work where two materials need to be glued together.

Examples of scenarios include adding a detail to a larger structure by gluing them together, or if you need to bind a subfloor. Another key feature of epoxy is that it can be used with different materials, from masonry to wood.

In simple terms, epoxy is a polymer. Polymers are common in our daily lives, to name a few; wool, or rubber are also polymers.

Epoxy Adhesives

Two primary types of epoxy adhesives are sold. Heat cured epoxies (also known as one-part epoxies), and two-part epoxies. There are some key differences between the two that you should be aware of.

Heat cured epoxies (one-part epoxies)

Heat cured epoxies are used in the industrial business quite a lot, however, they’re rarely used in construction. This is because they require a substantially high temperature for them to cure, with 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

Due to boasting a tough durability, you’ll see heat-cured epoxies used with electronic components. Highly advanced devices such as missile warning systems will also use heat cured epoxies internally.

Two-part epoxies

Whereas heat cured epoxies require 200 degrees minimum to cure, two-part epoxies are a lot easier to cure. You mix the epoxy resin (also known as the steel) with hardener, and over the course of 24 hours it will cure.

Two-part epoxies are used in construction, as well as the automotive, boating, and aeronautical industries. You can use epoxy to secure a countertop to a substrate, fasten concrete to concrete or metal, or apply it in various other projects.

Benefits of using epoxy adhesives

Some of the benefits of using epoxy adhesives and resin kits include:

• Strong and durable: Epoxy is incredibly strong and durable, making it an ideal choice for use in high-traffic areas or in industrial and commercial settings.
• Resistant to moisture: Epoxy is highly resistant to moisture, making it an excellent choice for use in wet areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and swimming pools.
• Chemical resistance: Epoxy is resistant to a wide range of chemicals, including acids, bases, and solvents, making it an ideal choice for use in laboratories and other industrial settings.
• Easy to clean: Epoxy is easy to clean and maintain, making it an excellent choice for use in high-traffic areas or in environments that require frequent cleaning.
• Versatility: Epoxy can be used for a wide range of applications, including flooring, countertops, and even artwork.
• Aesthetically pleasing: Epoxy can be customized to create a variety of colors, patterns, and designs, making it an attractive choice for decorative applications.
• UV resistance: Epoxy is highly resistant to UV rays, making it an ideal choice for outdoor applications such as decks, patios, and walkways.
• Low maintenance: Epoxy is a low-maintenance material that requires minimal upkeep, making it a cost-effective choice in the long term.

Epoxy sold by BC Profiles

Here are some of our favourite epoxy products at BC Profiles:

• Tricel TriCast 10 Crystal Clear Epoxy Resin Kit. This clear resin is perfect for art and decoration because the resin is clear rather than a colour or shade. It can be purchased in various sizes to suit your needs.