Epoxy resin is well-known for being one of the most formidable and longest-lasting sealant options available for countertop surfaces. Whether performed by professionals or handled as a DIY project, an epoxy coating is the way to go for a high-quality, low-maintenance finish that doesn't break the bank.
But how does epoxy actually fare in the long term? Is it really better than other sealants? And if so, how much?
In this article, we'll explain how long epoxy countertops tend to last (and what you can do to ensure a lengthy lifespan), as well as how they compare to countertops treated with other sealant types, so you can make the right call for your countertop surfaces.
Epoxy countertops: how long do they last?
An epoxy countertop can last quite a while, perhaps longer than almost any other sealant type. On average, an epoxy countertop will last about 7 years, with minimal care.
This assumes you've applied a high-quality epoxy (like our UltraClear Bar & Table Top Epoxy), rather than something low-grade (such as any budget brand resin).
Truthfully, though, there's more to the issue than that. Having a good epoxy is important, but the way you treat it also matters, because, while epoxy is strong and resilient without receiving any care, there are nonetheless a number of small things you can do to keep it in peak condition.
How to make your epoxy countertops last longer
Getting the most out of your epoxy countertop finish is a worthy goal that saves time and money while also reducing waste.
Here are some of the ways you can extend the lifetime of your epoxy countertops:
- Use a high-grade epoxy resin. Dont skimp on the quality and you'll save money with fewer repairs and not having to fix major problems later.
- Apply the epoxy carefully. Always follow the intended instructions for your chosen brand. You only get one shot at this, so it's best to do it right.
- Keep surfaces clean after usage. Because it's so easy to do, cleaning your epoxy surfaces won't take much of your time or energy.
- Avoid UV exposure. By far, direct sunlight is the most common source of this. To varying extents, consistent UV radiation will break down most sealants over time, so the less exposure your surfaces have to it, the better.
Let's dive into the details of these ways below.
Lifespan Tip #1: Use high-quality epoxy for your countertops for a much longer lifetime.
The first—and perhaps best—thing you can do for your countertops is choosing a high-quality epoxy resin from a reputable source. Even better if they're known for good customer support, as then you can address any issues on the off-chance something goes wrong.
These days, it's difficult to avoid low-quality budget brands of epoxy resin. These resins, which are overwhelmingly imported from underregulated countries, are almost invariably produced with compromised standards, resulting in subpar epoxy that fails to blend/cure properly or break down much earlier than they should.
The key to preventing this is to focus on finding a dealer with a trustworthy reputation for high-grade resin products.
UltraClear: a premium resin for long-lasting results
At UltraClear Epoxy, we offer premium resin products designed to last for years and years. Our resins are all 100% produced in the USA, thereby following the regulatory standards for quality and safety established for epoxy production.
On top of that, we have our own even higher standards for quality assurance, with a focus on safety, clarity, and strength in each of our resin products.
For the best in safety, clarity, and strength use one of our UltraClear Epoxy products designed for countertops, which can be found on the following pages:
- UltraClear Bar & Table Top Epoxy—Our strongest, most resilient epoxy resin. Despite its glasslike clarity, this is the finish that offers the highest level of durability, intended for long term use in high-traffic environments, whether at home or within commercial establishments.
- UltraClear Deep Pour Epoxy—A deep casting resin used for thick epoxy layers. While most countertops won't need this, it makes epoxy river countertops and other specialty designs much easier to achieve without air bubbles or other blemishes.
-
Lifespan Tip #2: Be prepared and follow the application instructions carefully.
Of utmost importance when performing an epoxy project is to understand what you'll need, as well as what to do and when to do it. Though epoxy application is relatively straightforward, it's essential to handle each step of the process properly.
Some guidelines for epoxy application are:
- Measure accurately. Each epoxy has a mixing ratio to follow. Learn what yours is before you start combining.
- Mix thoroughly. Epoxy has a time limit once the components are combined, but even the most stringent time limits provide enough time to fully blend and apply an epoxy batch (just don't exceed a reasonable size—i.e., no more than 1.5 gals total per batch)
- Deliberately apply the epoxy once mixed. You'll get fewer air bubbles if you stay close to the surface and pour it smoothly and consistently onto your substrate surface.
- Provide the right conditions for curing. And be sure to give it enough time to do so.
Lifespan Tip #3: Keep your epoxy surfaces clean after use.
Epoxy is a naturally formidable material. Due to its high resistance against many forms of damage, it's usually the best option for a sealant in high-traffic environments like kitchens, bars, etc.
Beyond that, it also serves as a pleasing aesthetic choice, with a high-gloss clarity that not only showcases the substrate material it's applied to, but also enhances the coloration of it by deepening tones that have become dull or washed out over time.
And the good news is that you can expect a high-quality epoxy finish to hold up for a long time. The great news is that you can extend the lifespan of your epoxy finish even further by cleaning it regularly after use.
How to clean your epoxy countertops to extend their lifespan.
Cleaning an epoxy surface of any sort—including countertops—is a breeze, thanks to epoxy's tight-knit, extra-smooth surface. In most cases, all you need to clean up residue, crumbs, and other debris from an epoxy countertop surface is warm water and mild dish soap. Simply use a decent cleaning cloth to wipe away any substances, and your finish should look good as new.
For an even easier time, most multi-surface cleaners or glass cleaners will work just as well and can be wiped up with a reusable cleaning cloth or paper towels. Either scented or unscented is fine.
Tough substances and sanitization
For stubborn substances, you can go the extra mile with a diluted solution of bleach and water. Use a 1:16 ratio (e.g., 1 cup of bleach to 16 cups of water—i.e., a gallon). Just be carefuly not to overdo it on the bleach, as bleach is one of the few common solvents that can negatively impact epoxy in high concentrations.
As for proper sanitization, any germ-killing multi-surface cleaner will do, and the aforementioned diluted bleach will also achieve similar results.
Learn more about keeping your epoxy surfaces clean in our guide here!
Lifespan Tip #4: Shelter your epoxy finish from UV exposure.
Unfortunately, UV radiation, present in direct sunlight, has the gradual effect of yellowing and breaking down many types of polymers and sealants. This includes epoxy, which can resist it to an extent before eventually also succumbing to wear, despite its remarkable resilience to other outdoor weather.
To avoid this issue, keep your epoxy surfaces out of direct, consistent sunlight. For most users, this won't be an issue, as epoxy countertops tend to be indoor, with a ceiling that doesn't simply allow light to pass through. But for outdoor projects, or rooms with roof windows, the effects of the sun become a concern to work around.
Methods for mitigating sunlight exposure include:
- Providing shade or shelter to the epoxy finish. This can include natural shading (e.g., trees, high rock surfaces, etc.) or constructed shelters (made from wood, metal, or other materials that don't let light through).
- Keeping your project indoors. This may seem obvious, but it's still worth mentioning that an epoxy project kept inside a building will almost never have to worry about this.
- Using UV-resistant or reflective fillers. This can be as simple as mica powder pigments which tint the epoxy and exhibit a reflective surface that bounces the UV radiation away. Learn more about this here, and check out the Pigmently collection in our store.
Learn more about epoxy yellowing here.
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 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.
