Both UV and Epoxy resin share several similar features. However, when it comes to choosing resin for making tables, it’s important to understand the unique properties of each resin to choose the right one.
What sets UV resin and Epoxy resin apart is the mixing process, curing time, quality, durability, and costs. Here, we’ll analyze each difference, so you make an informed decision for your tables.
Which Resin to Choose For Making Tables?
Learning how UV and epoxy resin work will give us a better understanding of each resin. UV resin requires UV light to work. Once applied, a UV lamp or torch hardens the mixture. However, epoxy, on the other hand, is a single solution of resin and hardener mixed together. These differences give them unique features for different needs.
Mixing Process
While there’s no mixing process involved in UV resin, epoxy resin requires mixing liquids, resin, and hardener. When mixed together, the resulting chemical process causes it to harden, which is why resin becomes glossy and transparent on the surface.
When it comes to UV resin, it’s always ready to use instantly. There’s no mixing process required for UV resin. Instead, UV resin must be exposed to UV light to make it hard using a UV torch or lamp. For wide surfaces, it’s a difficult process to deal with because UV torches or lamps can’t cover large surfaces.
However, the size of the table would determine if you should go for UV resin.
Curing
Compared to Epoxy resin, UV resin’s curing time is exceptionally short. Using a UV lamp, you can cure UV resin within minutes. Epoxy resin, on the other hand, takes several or even a day to cure completely.
Hence, which resin you’d choose would depend on how urgently the table needs to be made.
Durability Factor
Unfortunately, UV resin is not as durable as epoxy resin. Not only is it non-resistant to heat and scratches, but simple things like exposure to sunlight can also cause the surface to blister. The lack of durability strength is why it’s applied in thin layers.
Epoxy resin is known for its durability and strength quality. The durability, in turn, increases its lifespan if properly taken care of. Cleaning it regularly not only increases its lifespan but also keeps its appeal and looks intact.
Shelf Life
UV resin’s physical properties change after six months, making it unusable, which is why it has a short lifespan. In contrast, epoxy resin can last you a few years. Even if you open it, it can go on for almost a year.
Cost
When shopping for resin, you’ll find Epoxy resin is quite cheaper than UV resin. Not only is it cheaper, but you also don’t have to spend on a UV torch or lamp.
Additionally, Epoxy resin can be bought in large containers that make it more cost-effective. UV resin is generally available in small packaging.
Looking to buy tables made with epoxy or hire services like hardwood floor installation in Woodinville? At Five Star Hardwood Floor, you’d find experienced floor contractors who provide a range of services, including dustless refinishing in Woodinville. Reach out to us for more information.