Epoxy Countertops: Is it Worth the Try?

Epoxy countertops are a great way to refinish an existing material in your kitchen or bathroom. Unlike laminate, granite or quartz countertops, epoxy doesn’t come in pre-made slabs. Rather, it’s a type of refinishing product that you buy in the form of an epoxy countertops kit.

It’s interesting to note that Corian and cultured marble are both resin-based countertop materials, while epoxy is considered a solid-surface countertop. This means that all three materials share some similarities, but each one also has its own unique properties.

Epoxy is a popular choice for refinishing because it is scratch-resistant and can last for years without losing its shine. It is also tolerant of most cleaning materials, making it a low-maintenance option for busy households.

Consumers often use epoxy to cover up a worn-out laminate, wood, concrete, or ceramic countertop. This creates a shiny, glossy finish and protects the surface underneath. Epoxy can be used on top of marble or granite countertops, but it’s not a common practice.

Most homeowners don’t want to cover up their expensive granite or marble countertops which could add more value to their home. Traditional natural stone restoration is the best way to refinish or revive these surfaces.

Elements of Epoxy Countertops

Applying an epoxy countertops kit is typically a straightforward process that you can do right in your kitchen, following the manufacturer’s instructions. There are many types of epoxy available, but they all work by combining resin and hardener to produce a clear, durable solid.

The manufacturer’s instructions usually involve flooding the countertop material with a thin layer of epoxy as an initial seal. This prevents the formation of bubbles as you apply thicker coats later on in the process. Refinishing your old countertop with epoxy can be a great way to give it a new lease on life.

However, it’s important to make sure that you do it right, as installing an epoxy countertop over laminate or other materials is a science. Getting it wrong can easily negate any benefits one was anticipating. With that in mind, this article will discuss the pros and cons of refinishing an old countertop with epoxy products.

Advantages of Epoxy Countertops

Glossy Finish

If you’re looking for a super-shiny and glossy polished finish, then epoxy is the way to go. It’s incredibly glossy and can last for a long time with proper care. However, it is important to note that epoxy does wear down over time, so you’ll need to reapply it periodically to maintain that high-gloss look.

Resistant to Heat

You can set a hot dish on the surface without instantly ruining your countertop. Keep in mind that if you leave a heated baking dish or a hot coffee carafe on a layer of epoxy, it will eventually damage the surface.

Epoxy is heat resistant, but not heatproof. So, if you’re looking to avoid any potential damage, it’s best to use a trivet or hot pad when placing anything hot directly on your epoxy countertop.

Durable

Epoxy is amazing for creating a solid, long-lasting surface. Consumers love how it always looks shiny and new, without needing to be constantly reapplied like other materials. Epoxy countertops are a great choice for durability and easy maintenance. This type of surface is resistant to cracking and chipping, and it cleans up easily.

Food Safe

Most epoxy resins are considered non-toxic, and they’re food-safe for countertops once the epoxy resin has cured. The chemicals you use to create the hard surface usually contain some volatile organic compounds (VOCs), so proper ventilation is required during application and for a few days after as the VOCs evaporate.

Disadvantages of Epoxy Countertops

One-Time Application

Creating the colors and pattern of an epoxy countertop is a bit like painting live. You’re winging it and hoping you like the results. That’s both an advantage and a disadvantage of epoxy countertops.

While epoxy countertops offer the opportunity for people to create custom patterns and finishes, it’s important to be aware that, unlike materials like pre-finished slabs, you only have one shot to get it right.

If you mess up, it’s not just a quick fix. You might have to buy an entirely new countertop and start from scratch. And even then, there’s no guarantee that you’ll get it right the second time around.

Hard to Apply

Applying epoxy can be a bit of a pain – it’s time-consuming and requires some elbow grease. You need to make sure the surface is prepared properly, which might include sanding the countertops and removing any stains.

Adding an epoxy finish to an existing countertop is messy and complicated, especially if you’ve never worked with the material. That’s why it’s a good idea to practice first before tackling your first major project that you really don’t want to mess up.

Applying epoxy can be tricky- you don’t want to create a lumpy surface or get any air bubbles. If you’re not careful, you might need to remove the epoxy and start over. Most epoxies are self-leveling, which means they flow across the surface. So, you’ll probably get some dripping off the countertop edges.

Key Takeaway

Epoxy countertops are a great option for people who are looking for something shiny and new. They are also very affordable and easy to maintain. However, epoxy countertops can be difficult to install and require a lot of preparation.