Epoxy resin has become a noteworthy solution to sealing or finishing many different types of surface materials. Wood, granite, marble, laminate, and so much more can benefit heavily from epoxy's superb protective qualities and transparent appearance.
But for that to happen, the epoxy must be applied, and for optimal results, that process must be handled properly. While there are many different types of epoxy, the one most commonly used is table top epoxy.
In this article we'll be covering some aspects of table top epoxy. Our focus will be on answering the question, "Does table top epoxy self level?"
Beyond that, we'll also be discussing what types of projects table top epoxy is right for, as well as an alternative that may be preferable in some situations.
Table top epoxy: does it self level?
Yes, table top epoxy is self leveling. This self-leveling trait is what compels the epoxy to spread out only to a certain point unless constrained (e.g., by bar rails) or interfered with.
In most cases, this means it's easy to achieve a perfectly smooth epoxy finish for your table top surfaces with just a single comprehensive flood coating, as well as on countertops, bar tops, and other types of fixtures/furniture.
What thickness does table top epoxy self level to?
The answer to this varies by quality and design. Most good table top epoxies will self-level to 1/8 of an inch. Some are less viscous and spread out to 1/16 of an inch, though that's rarer and tends to be inadequate for almost any conventional epoxy project.
However, not all epoxies are reliable in this regard, so for consistent results, it's important to use a high-quality table top epoxy resin.
How epoxy quality affects the self-leveling trait and other aspects
When it comes to sealants like epoxy, quality matters. In the past, it was rare that an epoxy product wouldn't meet certain standards for safety and consistency in results. But these days, there are numerous resin brands being distributed that don't hold up. We call these "budget brands".
Epoxy's budget brand problem
Budget brand epoxy is any epoxy that has been produced to substandard specifications. This typically entails cost-cutting measures to save money for the producers on the manufacturing side of things.
These epoxy products are typically imported into America from countries with lax safety and quality regulation. As such, there's little scrutiny on them before they reach the buyer. Unfortunately, the end user of the epoxy receives a shoddy resin product that can fail in any number of ways and is often less safe.
Because these brands are so prevalent, especially in online marketplaces, it's important to be wary of making a quick purchase based on cost or even reviews (which can easily be faked on 3rd party stores). When shopping for epoxy, look for a credible brand with a dependable reputation for quality and customer service.
UltraClear Epoxy: Premium-grade epoxy and long term customer support
At UltraClear Epoxy, we're proud to serve the U.S. with epoxy of the highest caliber. All of our resin products are 100% made in the USA, and we not only adhere to all U.S. quality and safety regulations—we surpass them with higher standards of our own.
To get an epoxy product that not only self levels properly, but also cures strong and clear, with a lifespan of many years, choose UltraClear Epoxy. You'll find our resin products on the following pages, including our top-tier UltraClear Table Top Epoxy.
- UltraClear Bar & Table Top Epoxy—Our strongest, most formidable resin. Self-leveling, waterproof, and highly resistant to nearly all forms of damage, this is the one to choose if you want a long-term solution to your sealing or finishing concerns.
- UltraClear Deep Pour Epoxy—Our deep pour casting resin designed for extra-thick pours and deep layer finishes. Perfect for river tables and other epoxy projects requiring a thick layer.
- UltraClear Art & Craft Epoxy—This is our resin art focused epoxy. Use this for small projects such as wall art, trays, coasters, end tables, etc.
Which type of epoxy doesn't self level?
Deep casting resins (such as our UltraClear Deep Pour Epoxy) are less viscous than standard table top epoxies. This allows them to be poured in thick layers but also prevents them from self leveling. Instead they flow more like water. When using one, it's best to keep it contained using a temporary dam or suitable resin mold.
Learn more about Deep Pour Epoxy here.
Which epoxy should I use for a table?
For most table projects, go with Table Top Epoxy.
Though it depends on your project goals, tables generally benefit most from a Table Top Epoxy finish. It has strong self-leveling properties, as well as the highest strength of any clear-coat epoxy type and cures fully transparent.
For projects needing deep layers, choose Deep Pour Epoxy.
In some cases, Deep Pour Epoxy might be warranted. This is most common with epoxy river tables, which are designed to have a thick epoxy vein that "flows" between large pieces of a material substrate such as wood.
Additionally, some epoxy users elect to use both in their projects. Typically this means applying Deep Pour Epoxy for parts of the project that require thick layers, then finishing the whole project up with a topcoating of Table Top Epoxy for the strongest possible seal.
Want to know more? Read our guide to differences between these epoxy types here.
How thick should an epoxy finish be on a table top?
This is a good question with different answers depending on who you ask. In most cases, we recommend just a single layer of good table top epoxy for a typical flat table top, such as a wooden dining table. Our UltraClear Bar & Table Top Epoxy self levels to 1/8 of an inch, which is enough for a strong layer of waterproof protection.
In some situations, a slightly thicker finish may be desired. In that case you can overlay a second layer of the epoxy to double its thickness to 1/4 of an inch. Learn how to do that here, or contact our support team for guidance.
Either way, most users will apply one or two flood coats to their table top substrate.
For specialty table tops that require even thicker coatings, it's better to use Deep Pour Epoxy, which supports layers of up to 2 inches thick.
Additional Resources
Here are some additional resources you may find useful:
- How thick can you pour table top epoxy?
- How much will 1 gallon of table top epoxy cover?
- How long will epoxy last in a table?
UltraClear Epoxy: Resin Products of Unmatched Quality
As with any material, epoxy resin has both pros and cons. But no other sealant has so few weaknesses, and that's what puts epoxy above all other options when it comes to being a finish for high-traffic fixtures and furniture such as countertops, table tops, and bar tops. And among epoxy resin products, there are none that match the quality of UltraClear.
You can find our UltraClear Epoxy products on the following pages:
- UltraClear Bar & Table Top Epoxy: The classic self-leveling choice for bar tops, countertops, and table tops. Rock-solid, waterproof, and crystal-clear.
- UltraClear Deep Pour Epoxy: Our deep pour casting resin. Ideal for thick layers, such as those needed for river tables.
- UltraClear Art & Craft Epoxy: Our arts and crafts resin, designed for smaller artistic endeavors which typically involve resin molds and require a bit more fluidity than bar top epoxy.
With high chemical and physical resistance, UltraClear resins can withstand and endure many forms of wear and tear without breaking a sweat or showcasing any cosmetic damage.
Plus, in addition to its ease of application, they also require little upkeep to maintain its pristine appearance. With a high-quality epoxy finish, you can expect a minimum lifespan of 7 years, with no need for reapplication. Beyond that, it's a breeze to renew that coating, requiring only a light sanding and a fresh layer of epoxy.
