Epoxy adhesives, epoxy resins and their use

Whether you are working with fiberglass, wood, cement, metal or plastic, epoxies are the perfect choice when you need an extra strong bond. Once you know how to choose the right epoxy resin, aka epoxy resin or epoxy glue (epoxy glue), for the material you're working with, you can confidently move forward with your project. This guide will help you understand how to use epoxy correctly so you can get the best results for your project.

Standard dual-chamber epoxy application syringe
Epoxies often come in dual-chamber syringes.
What is epoxy glue and what are its uses?
Epoxy glue for metal
Epoxy glue for woodworking
Epoxy glue for cement
Epoxy glue for plastic

Epoxy is a two-part adhesive created by mixing epoxy resin and hardener. The two substances are kept in different containers and only mixed together when you are ready to glue - which you can do with a double syringe, for example. The mixing ratio should be 1:1, otherwise the resin will not cross.

After mixing both components, the shelf life begins. This is the period during which the parts to be glued can still be moved and changed. The usage time can be from a few minutes to a few hours, depending on the glue used. Glue for several hours to achieve maximum strength.

Epoxy is very versatile and super strong, making it ideal for DIY projects (home use). It is also a gap filler, making it an ideal reconstruction tool. In addition, the epoxy can be sanded, drilled and painted. This gives it a much wider range of uses than ordinary glue.

Using epoxy glue
Roughen the surfaces you want to glue with sandpaper or carefully file the places. Remove dust, grease and dirt from surfaces.
Cut off the ends of the syringe. Turn the syringe upside down and push the syringe down slightly, pushing up the air bubbles.
Press the double plunger on the disposable surface to eject equal parts resin and hardener. If your epoxy does not come with a tray or syringe, it would be a good idea to purchase one. If you don't have time to buy, use a disposable plate or a well-cleaned yogurt container.
Pull the plunger back slightly, wipe the applicator tip clean and replace the cap.
Mix the resin and cure quickly until completely mixed (1-2 minutes).
Add a small amount of glue to the items to be glued, carefully put them together and press them firmly together. Setting and curing times vary from product to product, so check the packaging or manufacturer's instructions for details.
Remove excess epoxy.
 
Epoxy glue for metal
Using epoxy to bond metal is a convenient alternative to welding, soldering, or bolting. A very strong metal bonding epoxy is the so-called cold welding glue. Such a product is ideal for repairing household appliances, machines and pipes, and is also very effective in fixing bolts and screws to metal. Generally, these adhesives cure gray, can be sanded or drilled, are waterproof and harden in about 10 minutes, and fully cure in less than 24 hours. Often these adhesives are also non-conductive, making them ideal for sealing electrical components.

If your garden stepping stones have cracks, you can easily repair them with the right epoxy. When choosing epoxy, consider the complexity and special requirements of your project. For example, if you need a lot of time to place parts of your project after applying the epoxy, you should choose a longer-life epoxy with a pot life of, for example, 60 minutes, which allows you to take your time putting the broken pieces of rock and concrete back together until your layout looks just the way you want it.


With the right epoxy, attaching garden stones is quick and easy
Are your tiles cracked? Don't worry! You can easily improve your tropical paradise.

Epoxy adhesives for plastic
From garden chairs to car parts, plastic comes in all shapes and sizes. With all the plastic products found in most households, it's no surprise that some of them need repair from time to time. It's a good idea to keep an epoxy on hand that's specially designed for bonding and repairing plastic surfaces.

Broke the PVC pipe under the sink?! A convenient epoxy putty is, for example, HI-GEAR QUIKSTEEL PLUS "High-speed steel" - a universal repair tool. This putty is malleable, can be glued to wet surfaces and also hardens under water. It can be used on surfaces other than plastics such as wood, brick, ceramics, metal and concrete.

Epoxy can be used for both metal and plastic.

How to remove epoxy?
Epoxy is designed to last, so you want to avoid getting it into your surroundings if possible. When disorder occurs you won't be stuck with it for life. Here are some tips for removing epoxy.

Removing Cured Epoxy: Once your epoxy has dried and hardened, you will need to use a fairly aggressive method. Paint thinner, denatured alcohol, or glue remover will help soften the epoxy. Simply dip a cloth in the solvent and rub the epoxy you want to remove. Avoid skin contact and work in a ventilated area.
Removing Uncured Epoxy: Uncured epoxy is softer and therefore easier to remove than cured epoxy. Simple acetone or isopropyl alcohol will do the trick. Simply apply the chemical to a cloth and rub the area until the glue is released.
Removing epoxy from skin: If you get epoxy on your skin, remove it as soon as possible. For a more natural approach, try using vinegar. Simply wet a cotton ball and rub the area until it softens. You can also try nail polish remover with acetone.

Here you can find a selection of epoxy glues sold in our e-shop.