Epoxy resin comes in different types, each distinctly suited for particular types of projects. Among these types are the two most common choices for not only DIY epoxy projects, but also for professional work (typically employed in commercial environments)—table top epoxy and deep pour epoxy.
In previous articles, we've talked about the functional differences between these two epoxy types, emphasizing their hardness as well as the situational applications., and even when to use both in the same project.
In this article, we'll discuss another difference between the two—their costs. Specifically, we'll address why deep pour epoxy often costs more per gallon than table top epoxy and even specialty art epoxy.
Why does deep pour epoxy cost more than other epoxy types?
Deep pour epoxy generally costs more than table top epoxy for several reasons, including:
- It requires a more specialized formula.
- It's designed to handle longer curing times.
- It's generally applied in greater volume.
- The creation process requires extensive quality control.
Let's take a look at each of these in detail.
Reason #1: A more specialized formula
Deep pour epoxy is designed to handle thicker applications, often up to 2 inches deep, which requires a more complex formulation. This formulation helps prevent issues like excessive heat buildup and ensures proper curing over larger volumes, which can increase production costs.
Reason #2: Designed to sustain longer curing times
Deep pour epoxy typically has a longer curing time compared to table top epoxy. This is due to the need to prevent overheating and ensure a proper cure throughout the entire thickness. The extended curing process requires that the epoxy be stable for longer until it fully hardens and can contribute to higher costs.
Reason #3: Typically applied in greater volume
Because deep pour epoxy is used in thicker layers, it requires more resin per project compared to table top epoxy. The higher volume of resin used contributes to the overall cost of the product.
Reason #4: Extensive quality control procedures
To ensure the epoxy performs well in deep pours and avoids issues like air bubbles and uneven curing, manufacturers often implement more stringent quality control measures. This includes rigorous testing and quality assurance processes, which can drive up production costs.
Ultimately, it's this combination of specialized formulation, extended curing times, higher resin volumes, and advanced quality control that contributes to the higher cost of deep pour epoxy compared to table top epoxy.
So why use deep pour epoxy if it costs more?
For the majority of epoxy projects, the goal is simply to give a thin but powerful protective coating to a surface, be it a bar top, countertop, or some type of furniture. For those, table top epoxy is the right choice. In many other cases, the goal is to create the kinds of resin art which require only limited depth, a situation where art epoxy shines.
Sometimes something more is needed, though, and despite its higher cost, that's when deep pour epoxy excels. Any furniture or fixture project that requires a deep layer of epoxy, such as a river table, is an excellent candidate for deep pour. Similarly, resin art projects that require deep casting or which have spaces of unusual shape for the epoxy to fill in can benefit greatly from deep pour epoxy.
A lower viscosity allows for remarkable depth
Deep pour's much lower viscosity facilitates much thicker layers. This means in situations where table top epoxy or art epoxy might develop significant problems, including the formation of numerous air bubbles, deep pour epoxy is able to perform without issue.
Furthermore, deep pour epoxy can be combined seamlessly with stronger but more limited epoxy types such as table top epoxy. This allows users to get the best of both worlds by first taking advantage of deep pour's thick layers, then sealing their project with the strongest possible finish using table top epoxy.
More complicated to produce, but still beginner friendly for users.
Deep pour epoxy is also straightforward to use, even for beginners. It's easy to measure and mix together, and has a much longer working time for application afterward. Additionally, it flows very easily—almost like water—making the application a breeze as long as appropriate measures have been taken (e.g., an edge guard, rails, or simply using a casting mold) to keep it from flowing over the edges.
It's worth choosing a high-grade epoxy for clear and long-lasting results.
Investing in a high-quality deep pour epoxy is an important step toward ensuring a smooth experience with quality results. While deep pour epoxy may not be as viscous or sturdy as table top epoxy, it can still feature many of the other benefits that epoxy is known for providing, including crystal-clear transparency, receptiveness to colorants and embedments (for customization!), and a smooth finish that is easy to clean and maintain.
But on the other hand it can also exhibit the same flaws if the quality is not up to par. To avoid any issues, spring for a premium deep pour epoxy from a reputable source.
In our store, you'll find our UltraClear Deep Pour Epoxy., a premium-grade epoxy that supports high layer depth of up to 2 inches. It's the perfect solution to any project that demands thick layers or deep casting.
Additional Resources
Here are some additional resources you may find useful:
- 5 Potential Epoxy Problems and How to Avoid Them
- How thick can you pour table top epoxy?
- What is the difference between table top epoxy and "regular" epoxy?
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.
