Boat Building Forum

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Re: drying time btwn epoxy layers
By:Pete Rudie
Date: 5/30/1999, 3:40 pm
In Response To: drying time btwn epoxy layers (Steph)

> I am currently using System III epoxy and I have just completed
> fiberglassing the hull and the next step involves applying two more layers
> of epoxy. What is the least amount of time allowed between epoxy layers?
> Do I need a day between the first and second layer or can I do the first
> in the morning and another early evening? Anyone know????

With 100% solids epoxy there is no evaporation component to the cure, so there is no "minimum recoat time" as there is with paint. Actually with epoxy the sooner the next coat goes on the better the chemical bond is between coats. Watch for blush though. Sometimes at low temperatures and high humidity a waxy white byproduct forms on the surface that will prevent adhesion of the next coat. If this forms, just wash it off with soap and water before proceeding.

If several days pass between coats, you will need to sand the entire surface to get a good mechanical bond. Once the stuff is crosslinked you won't get a chemical bond between coats.

So, one coat in the morning and another in the evening is just fine, so long as there is no blush to contend with.

Messages In This Thread

drying time btwn epoxy layers
Steph -- 5/30/1999, 2:51 pm
Re: drying time btwn epoxy layers
Pete Rudie -- 5/30/1999, 3:40 pm
Re: drying time btwn epoxy layers
AL BRATTON -- 5/31/1999, 9:41 pm
Re: drying time btwn epoxy layers
Mike Scarborough -- 6/1/1999, 8:27 am
Re: drying time btwn epoxy layers
Pete Rudie -- 6/1/1999, 12:49 am
Re: drying time btwn epoxy layers
Steph -- 6/1/1999, 8:28 pm
Re: drying time btwn epoxy layers
AL BRATTON -- 6/1/1999, 6:52 am