Guide to buying the right epoxy resin coating for your needs

Which epoxy resin coatings are best?

Epoxy resin coatings are versatile and protective. They provide strength for numerous uses that adhesives and glues can't match. That's why these superior coatings are popular in industrial, construction, marine and creative applications when a durable, long-lasting coating is required.

It takes proper instructions and a little skill to mix and apply an epoxy resin coating properly. It also requires knowledge about this type of product to choose one that will match your needs. Our buying guide has you covered with everything you need to know about epoxy resin coatings plus a roundup of the best products on the market.

Why use epoxy resin coating?

There are many finishes available, from paints and varnishes to powder coatings, but none offer the combination of visual quality, hardness and ease of use. Most varnishes, though simple to apply, are neither particularly hard nor durable in extremes. Powder coating is very tough — it's actually a form of epoxy — but requires baking in an industrial process, which is often impractical.

Epoxy resin coatings are a two-part mix — synthetic polymer (resin) plus hardener. They combine ease of application (via brush, roller, pad, or pour) with immense strength once cured properly. Epoxies also have numerous creative applications which can be interesting to explore.

Features of epoxy resin coatings

Clarity: For many uses, clarity is important. You should look for UV protection — which prevents yellowing in sunlight — but the effectiveness can be difficult to judge without experimentation and time to assess any change. It's worth checking customer reviews to get a good idea of the actual clarity.

Chemistry: There are aspects of the chemistry that will have an impact on your choice. In particular, the chemistry of an epoxy resin coating impacts the curing time and temperature demands. While it's not unheard of for epoxies to harden overnight, some can take several days — and the environment may need to be controlled to some extent.

Mixing: In order to make an epoxy resin coating, the first step requires mixing the resin and hardener together. Most formulas require equal parts or a 1:1 ratio. However, some epoxies must be mixed using a 2:1 ratio for them to cure properly. Each product includes instructions that will indicate the mixing ratio. Keep in mind that it's important to follow the directions precisely for the components to turn into an epoxy that cures and produces a clear, bubble-free finish that's hard and long-lasting.

Application: Workability is another aspect to consider. Technically, the two components in epoxy resin coatings start to harden as soon as they are mixed, but an "open time" is usually listed by the manufacturer during which they stay fairly liquid. This is vital for surfaces like countertops and other large areas so you have time to cover the whole surface uniformly. There are also self-leveling products, but they only help to a degree, mostly by filling in marks from your brush or other tools.

While larger bottles of course cover greater areas, one-gallon packs from different manufacturers won't necessarily provide the same coverage. Expected coverage should be provided, usually in square feet at a specified thickness.

If you’re using epoxy resin coating for creative purposes, you may want to check for compatible pigments and whether it's suitable for molding — there are often limits to size or thickness (although it may be possible to build up multiple layers).

Smell: Some epoxy resin coatings can give off an unpleasant smell, so you might want to look for one known for its low odor.

Best epoxy resin coatings

This is a high-quality option from one of the top names in creative epoxies. It's offers an uncomplicated mixing process and can be used as a surface finish or for small molded items. It's excellent for tinting with wide color range. It also dries very hard, has low odor and is UV resistant.

Available at Amazon

We like that ProGlas is an easy-to-use product that offers great value for money. The simple mixing ratio and long "open time" allows for extended working on large surfaces. UV inhibitors help preserve clarity.

Available at Amazon

This epoxy works on more surfaces than many and is very affordable. It's another straightforward mix. It can be used with a number of nonporous surfaces and is FDA-compliant for food items. It's also UV resistant.

Available at Amazon

Free of odors and toxins, The Artist's Resin dries solid with a high-gloss finish. The clear formula makes it ideal for countless projects, including arts and crafts. Pigments can also be added to it to produce customized colors.

Available at Amazon

This comprehensive kit includes equal parts resin and hardener with enough product to mix up to two gallons of coating. Once cured, it's clear, hard and glossy. Two measuring cups and two mixing sticks are also included.

Available at Amazon

Easy to mix, this resin dries crystal clear. The hard finish makes it ideal when used as a coating or to create unique crafts and arts. You can choose from large or small bottles to fit your needs.

Available at Amazon

With low odor, an easy mix and a fast cure time, this epoxy is a good choice for indoor projects. Once set, the finish is durable and glossy. As the name suggests, the formula rejuvenates tables, bars and other types of furniture.

Available at Home Depot

Epox-It is another quality resin coating that dries hard to a finish that resists damage. It's easy to mix and use and is suitable for many types of projects including coating wood furniture and making jewelry.

Available at Amazon

Formulated for craft making, this resin is straightforward to mix and doesn't have a strong odor. It dries clear without bubbles, so it won't be noticeable on your artistic creations. It also provides UV protection and is food-safe.

Available at Amazon

In addition to a generous amount of resin and hardener, this comprehensive kit includes two measuring cups, a mixing spatula and a spreader — everything you need to coat objects, make molds and more. The formula mixes with ease and has a shiny, bubble-free finish when dried.

Available at Amazon

Other top epoxy resin coatings

PC Products PC Clear Liquid Epoxy comes in 16-ounce bottles that make it a sound choice for smaller projects.

If you need an entire kit, Famowood Glaze Clear Coat Epoxy Kit is worth a look.

East Coast Resin is a clear and durable coating, making it a practical choice for numerous tasks.

An epoxy resin coating like ArtResin is ideal for jewelry-making.

FGCI Liquid Glass Deep Pour Epoxy Resin can be used to create thick coatings.

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