How to Fix Yellowed Epoxy? – Read before Getting Worried!

Just think about what comes to our minds when we notice that our epoxy floor has turned yellow. Most folks are unaware of how to fix yellowed epoxy. Usually, many of us believe that yellowed epoxy cannot be prevented. So, we just keep worrying. Yet, the truth is that the yellowing of epoxy-coated floors can be prevented.

Yellowing of Epoxy resin is quite a normal occurrence. We use epoxy resin for resin jewelry, resin coasters, resin tables, key-chains, and much more. Furthermore, epoxy is used to coat floors in houses, especially for garages. Unfortunately, epoxy resin turns yellow over time.

Sadly, although we expect the epoxy to remain unchanged, discoloration cannot be avoided. Despite the light condition it is kept, whether it is direct or indirect sunlight, the epoxy gradually turns yellow. Depending on the brand, color, and epoxy type, the yellowing rate will differ.

Why Does Epoxy Turn Yellow?

Epoxy resin turns yellow due to several reasons. Too much heat when curing or a reaction in the colorant may yellow the epoxy. Also, low-quality epoxy resin turns yellow faster. The same happens when exposed to UV rays. Therefore, UV rays and light are the two major causes of epoxy discoloration.

Once exposed to air, the discoloration quickens as an oxidation process occurs. This is natural, and it is another main reason for epoxy to turn yellow. The epoxy in opened bottles changes to yellow quickly. When you use epoxy once and leave the bottle closed aside for some time, the epoxy color will change.

As mentioned before, UV rays can expedite the yellowing process. UV rays contact the epoxy in the form of direct sunlight. Epoxy bottles which are exposed to prolonged UV rays are prone to yellowing more quickly. So, make sure you store your resin in a cool and dry place away from exposure to direct sunlight.

How to Fix Yellowed Epoxy?

So, let’s learn about how to fix yellowed epoxy without getting disheartened about the yellow patches on the floor. It’s a plus point to hear that yellowed epoxy is still usable. Epoxy once turned yellow, is irreversible. The yellow color will increase more only. Nevertheless, there are ways to fix the issue of discoloration. These measures are common to epoxy used for floor coatings as well as for arts.

• Use a UV Protectant Spray

It is a wise practice to seal the resin with a UV protectant spray once the cure is finished. UV sprays function well with epoxy, UV, and synthetic resin, as well as with polyester resin. Applying only a thin layer will work as the resin is dry. Avoid spraying this while the resin is in a liquid state.

• Use Colorants Compatible with the Resin

The tips on how to fix yellowed epoxy are never complete without saying colorants. Fixing yellowed epoxy could be simple as selecting the correct colorants. Using a powder instead of liquid colorants is always better if it is possible. Using colorants and resins from the same brand is also good.

• Always Purchase High-quality Resin

High-quality resin is somewhat expensive, but it is worth the cost. A low-quality resin will trouble you by turning into low more quickly. Make it a habit to purchase resins from a company with good reviews about yellowing. Or else, if you are not very much worried about yellowing, it is okay to go for a cheaper resin.

• Use a Resin with a UV Stabilizer

We have to first understand that using a UV stabilizer with resin will not completely prevent the epoxy resin from changing its color. The epoxy resin will turn yellow after some years. But it will surely be the slower rate of yellowing. Various resins differ in their rates of yellowing. Therefore, use a resin which as UV light stabilizer in its formula.

• Store the Opened Bottle in a Cool and Dark Place

This tip is related to epoxy resin art. Once you have taken the amount of resin for your art, close the caps of the bottle tightly. This reduces exposure to oxygen. Most epoxy glues will change color while inside the bottle if not properly stored. So, it is important to keep the epoxy bottles away from direct sunlight.

• Manage the Amount of Resin you Utilize

This tip also relates to art rather than to floor coatings. Be careful when using the epoxy resin you purchased for your projects. To avoid long-term storage, you can measure the exact resin volume needed and take them out of the bottle. After you buy the bottle, don’t open it right away if you are not using it immediately.

• The Epoxy Floor Coatings Turn Yellow

In homes, you can notice epoxy flooring turning yellow easily. This is called ambering. This doesn’t mean the product can’t be used anymore. But all should be aware of how to prevent it from happening and how to slow the process. Homeowners are quite worried about seeing their shiny floors turn yellow with time.

Epoxy floor coatings are made by combining resins and hardeners. This coating is applied on a smooth concrete floor in multiple layers. The layers are allowed to harden. You can easily prevent ambering by following the above tips on how to fix yellowed epoxy. The above reasons for epoxy turning yellow are also applicable to epoxy flooring as well as art.

The following ways can help to prevent epoxy floors from turning yellow. Using a UV-resistant agent to coat the flooring is recommended. Moreover, keeping doors closed will reduce exposure to air and sunlight. Choosing epoxy resin colors capable of masking discoloration is also vital. When cleaning floors, avoid using acid or soap-based cleaners.

Conclusion – There is Nothing to Worry About!

Epoxy is regarded as the best garage flooring option wing to its shiny finish, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Epoxy-coated floors are steadily gaining popularity across residences. They will remain the best if you follow the above tips on how to fix yellowed epoxy!

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