Recently, a large number of innovative building mixtures for puttying surfaces in various premises are presented on the market. Such compositions differ significantly from one another by their characteristic features, advantages, and are also used in various fields of construction. Among these new products should be highlighted putty mixtures, which include epoxy resins. These solutions are successfully used in the process of finishing work.
Features of epoxy putties
Epoxy putties are better than other materials for ship repair work. The fact is that the addition of epoxides makes the solution a stronger mixture, which also does not shrink. In addition, this putty is moisture resistant, does not crumble and is perfectly polished.
Epoxy putties in their composition contain a small amount of volatile substances, which ensures low shrinkage. This quality makes it possible to apply the material in a thick layer up to one centimeter and not be afraid of the appearance of cracks after solidification. However, epoxy putty is resistant to saline solutions, alkali and detergents. Also, the material is able to withstand the infrequent effects of mineral oil and gasoline.
By the way, it will be noted that the surfaces obtained after applying the epoxy putty are durable and have adhesion to metal products, concrete, fiberglass, ceramics and other materials. This quality of the mixture allows the use of these solutions to restore structures that are operated under the influence of significant loads. These include steps, window sills, floors and metal products.
Application area
Putty with epoxy resin in the composition is used to finish surfaces of various structures. For example, there is an epoxy putty for metal. It is used to level the surface before applying paints and varnishes. Epoxy putty for wood can be used to seal cracks, joints and irregularities in the repair or installation of wooden floors.
However, this material is useful for processing doors, windows and other interior items. Epoxy putty for plastic can be useful in the repair of damaged elements of the car body. Thus, the scope of this material is quite wide and diverse. Mixtures marked with EP 0010 are used in shipbuilding and ship repair. Epoxy putties can be freely purchased at many hardware stores. The process of finishing works is quite simple, which allows them to be carried out on their own.
Material Composition
Epoxy putty is a combination of several components. It includes resin, hardener and filler. Epoxy resin is a viscous substance of a brown tint and gives the putty composition the necessary qualities. The consistency of this component of the mixture is similar to liquid materials, therefore, to make the resin more dense, filler is added to it. This quality of the finishing material is of great importance when performing rough repair work.
As filler metal shavings are used. When using putties with such an additive, defects in the treated surface are effectively masked. In addition, fiberglass is also used as a filler. If the putty is intended for the final finishing of concrete substrates, then its composition, as a rule, the amount of filler is much less.
DIY epoxy putty for wood is prepared using blade spatulas. In addition, if a large volume of solution is required, then small sheets of metal, pieces of plexiglass, plywood, etc. can be used. If it is possible to use all of the materials listed, it is recommended to give preference to plexiglass. It is easily cleaned from the frozen solution. For work, it is necessary to knead an amount of solution sufficient for use within 3-4 minutes. After this, the putty will begin to set, which will significantly complicate the process of applying the mixture to the base.
The proportion between putty and hardener depends on the ambient temperature. As a rule, the amount of hardener is 1.5-3% of the weight of the putty. For example, at a temperature of 13 to 24 ° C, it is necessary to add 2% hardener to the composition. At temperatures above 25 ° C, a smaller amount can be added - 1.5% by weight. But at temperatures below 12 ° C, on the contrary, more - 3%. Above this, adding a hardener is not recommended.
The main characteristics of the material
Epoxy putty hardens slowly enough, which makes it possible to mix the mixture slowly until the composition of the desired consistency is obtained. After preparation, it is important to accurately lay the composition on the base. How to apply epoxy putty for plastic? How to do it yourself? From the moment the material is applied to the surface to be treated, at least an hour passes before the moment of polymerization arrives. The final solidification of the mixture occurs after six hours.
Two hours after this, you can start cleaning the surface with sandpaper and applying a paint layer or other finishing material. It is not necessary to prime the surface. Just clean it from dirt and grease.
Epoxy putty can be prepared independently. Depending on the material of the surface on which the mixture will be applied, the solution is made using different ingredients. For example, epoxy putty for plastic is prepared on the basis of glue and filler. How to make such a solution on your own? It is necessary to use two-part epoxy glue and mix both liquids according to the instructions. As filler, fine wood sawdust, chalk should be used, and high-grade cement can also be added to improve adhesion to the base.
Some nuances of using the solution
In different areas of construction, certain types of putty mixture are used. This feature should be considered when buying material. To choose the necessary putty, it is important to familiarize yourself with the instructions provided by the manufacturer and the composition of the mixture.
Often putty solutions in several containers are on the market. In one of them are bulk solids, and in the other - a hardener. When preparing a mixture of the desired consistency, a certain amount of ingredients should be selected and mixed until a homogeneous mass is obtained. The finished solution must be laid on the prepared surface of the base.
In this case, it is not necessary to clean the primed plane or to prime it before applying the putty. An important point is the need to thoroughly degrease the surface. When applying, use a spatula or other special tools. The distribution of the solution in the base depends on the type and consistency of the mixture used.
After finishing the putty of the surface, it is necessary to allow the composition to dry for at least eight hours. It is during such a period of time that the solution solidifies completely. After that, the material is ground and painted. If the epoxy putty is used when performing rough repair work, it is required to apply a leveling mixture before applying it. It is important to emphasize that when mixing the mixture with your hands it is necessary to use protective gloves, which are recommended to be thoroughly washed after completion of work.
Where is the most commonly used epoxy putty
Epoxy putty is used in capital construction, as well as in the repair process for:
- alignment of walls and other bases of wood, concrete, plastic, stone and other materials;
- surface waterproofing works;
- connection of different building materials among themselves, for example, ceramic products, metal, wood, plastic and others;
- for closing seams;
- to hide defects, bumps, damage due to mechanical stress and for other purposes.
In conclusion, it is worth emphasizing that thanks to the excellent characteristics, epoxy putty helps to solve many problems that arise during the construction or repair process. In addition, it stands out against the background of other finishing materials with a significant service life.
Material manufacturers
Today in the market of finishing materials there is a wide range of epoxy putties. They are used for a variety of types of work and, accordingly, have various characteristics and features. Among the most well-known and well-established manufacturers are Bergauf, Brozex, Ceresit, Knauf, Litokol, Pro, Unis, Gypsopolymer, Kreps, Weber Gifas, and Volma Corporation.