You’ve heard of epoxy resin, but you may not know how versatile it really is. Learn all the details about using epoxy adhesive and the many problems it can solve.
Epoxy is a two-part adhesive made up of an epoxy resin and a hardener. Once mixed, there is a limited working time before it hardens and sets. The two parts are mixed 1:1, ideally in a disposable container. Many epoxies are now dispensed from a dual syringe which keeps the components separate until just before application.
Epoxy resin achieves its adhesive strength only when mixed with a hardener, and this process occurs just before application
Working times vary depending on the formula and range from a few minutes to a matter of hours.
Epoxy forms an extremely strong bond and fills gaps where the parts do not fit exactly together. This makes it perfect for craftspeople as well as DIYers.
Epoxy is great for making repairs and DIY projects. It fills gaps, dries extremely strong, and can be drilled, sanded, and painted once it is set. Here are the basic steps for using epoxy:
- Use sandpaper to rough up the surfaces to be bonded. Remove dust, grease, and dirt.
- Cut the tip of the syringe and begin to press the plunger.
- Dispense the epoxy resin and hardener onto a disposable surface.
- Retract the plunger and replace the cap.
- Mix the epoxy resin and hardener until well blended.
- Apply epoxy to the items to be bonded and press together firmly. Use clamps, if needed.
- Wipe away any excess epoxy.
There are epoxies for a wide variety of applications. Some of them are described below.
Many formulations of epoxy glue are similar except for drying times. This is important depending on your needs. If the project takes some time to assemble or needs to be adjusted for a precise fit, a longer drying time will be beneficial. When you need a quick fix, there are epoxies that set in just a few minutes.
You will also want to choose an epoxy that is ideal for the materials you are working with. Most epoxies will bond to wood, metal and plastic. Then there are epoxies for cement or stone. If your project consists of working mostly or entirely with one of these materials, why not use a formula designed specifically for them?
For instance, you can purchase epoxy specifically for bonding various types of plastic. Another formula, developed for metal repairs, is perfect for machinery, tools, appliances and pipes. This type of epoxy is especially resistant to fluids and solvents such as gasoline, antifreeze.
Epoxy resin is ideal for repairing tiles as it creates a strong, durable bond that can withstand moisture and temperature changes
Also available are marine-grade epoxies for applications exposed to water.
If you are doing an overhead or vertical surface repair, try using a gel formula that will not run or drip.
If the epoxy has hardened, paint remover or heat should soften it so that it can be scraped away. Another option would be to sand the excess epoxy if you can do so without harming the surface of the object.
For a great general-purpose epoxy glue, we recommend Loctite Epoxy Instant Mix 5 Minute. This formula sets in just five minutes and will bond to metal, glass, wood, and ceramics. For those in a rush, there's also a 1 Minute version available.
If your project requires working overhead, try Loctite Epoxy Gel. This formula has a thicker gel consistency and will stay in place without dripping. It is still fast setting in just six minutes, is water resistant and can be used outdoors.