How to Make a Clear Epoxy Resin Countertop

Adding a clear epoxy resin coating to your countertop can give your kitchen durable, functional surfaces that are very easy to care for. A little knowledge and careful planning, and an application of resin and hardener, will keep them stain-resistant, free from chipping, and elegant looking for years to come. This substance allows the beauty of countertops, wood, tile, or marble, to be seen, but not damaged. Find out how to apply this yourself below.

Step 1 - Prepare the Surface

Using masking tape, old newspapers, and drop cloths, be sure to cover all surfaces and areas that are not to be coated with the clear epoxy resin. Be thorough and cover any areas that the epoxy may touch, leaving only the countertop bare. It is very difficult to remove epoxy once it has dried, so take care.

Step 2 - Use Safety Equipment

Epoxy cannot be removed from clothing, so put on old working clothes. Wear approved safety goggles and be sure to wear a respirator mask to protect against the fumes the resin and hardeners produce. It is also a good idea to work in a well-ventilated area with a fan moving the air away from the project area. Epoxy fumes are toxic. Also wear approved latex gloves throughout the epoxy application, and dispose of them appropriately when the work is done.

Step 3 - Mix Resin and Hardener

Most manufacturers supply pumps which will accurately dispense both the resin and hardener. Carefully dispense adequate amounts of both into an appropriately sized plastic container. Using wooden sticks, carefully and slowly mix the resin and hardener together, being sure to remove any lumps that may form. For the best results, follow the manufacturer’s directions and mix the materials well before applying.

Step 4 - Apply an Epoxy Coat

Pour the contents of the plastic containers into a clean paint tray. Then, apply the epoxy to the countertop with ample amounts from the roller, using the brushes as needed to ensure the epoxy spreads evenly across the countertop. At this point, a layer from 1/8 to 1/4 of an inch can be spread out across the surface. It is very important to make sure all bubbles are removed as the resin is applied and that you keep working the epoxy so that it evenly coats the entire space.

Step 5 - Allow Epoxy to Dry Sufficiently

Follow the directions provided by the manufacturer and let epoxy dry for at least 48 hours. When it is completely dry, carefully remove masked off areas, dispose of old newspapers, and remove drop cloths. A hairdryer may be used to hasten the drying time of the epoxy if necessary. Once the initial coat is sufficiently dry, a second coat of resin and hardener may be applied if desired. If the counter top undergoes heavy usage, a second coat will go a long way toward protecting the surface from abuse.