Epoxy

Epoxy wood finishes are a durable and high-gloss option for protecting wood surfaces, especially in environments where moisture or heavy use is a concern. This type of finish is resin-based, which means it forms a hard, plastic-like coating over the wood that seals and protects it from water, scratches, and wear. Because of this, epoxy is often used on surfaces like tabletops, bar tops, and even wood used in marine settings.

When choosing an epoxy finish, it's important to know whether it’s intended for indoor or outdoor use. Most epoxy products are best suited for indoor furniture because they can yellow over time when exposed to direct sunlight. However, some brands offer UV-resistant versions that are designed to withstand outdoor conditions more effectively.

Epoxy finishes are usually applied in layers and poured or brushed onto the surface. Brushing can help control application on vertical or uneven surfaces, while pouring is ideal for flat areas where a thick, level coat is desired. It’s important to work in a clean, dust-free environment because once the epoxy starts to set, dust or debris can get stuck in the surface and be very difficult to remove.

This type of finish requires more careful preparation than paints or oils. The wood must be completely dry and clean before application. Any moisture in the wood or air bubbles during application can cause problems like cloudiness or fisheyes in the final finish.

Epoxy finishes are extremely durable and long-lasting. They need very little maintenance and don’t need to be reapplied often, unlike wax or oil finishes. However, over time, epoxy can develop scratches or lose its shine, especially on surfaces that are frequently used. In those cases, it can be buffed and polished to restore the gloss, or in more severe cases, sanded and re-coated.

To remove an old epoxy finish, sanding is the most effective method. Unlike acrylic paint, epoxy doesn’t peel easily, so chemical strippers are generally not effective. Start with a coarse grit sandpaper to break through the surface and then switch to a finer grit to smooth the wood before reapplying a new finish.

After the old epoxy is removed and the wood is properly sanded and cleaned, you can choose to apply a new epoxy coat or switch to a different type of finish like paint, stain, or oil depending on the look and level of protection you want.