Glen-L.com

Hi all,

How long must you wait to sand final layer of epoxy so the a final finish such as Bristol can be applied?

Thanks

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BILLIE'S BARREL

Norm,

As long as you're out of the sun (UV Rays), wait as long as you can. I sanded and clear-coated the hull. Now, I have a few drips of epoxy on the clear-coat. I also have a few overzealous sanding marks to try to fix.

Bill

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Mini -Tug, KH Tahoe 19 & Bartender 24 - There can be no miracle recoveries without first screwing up.
Tahoe 19 Build

Per most manufacturers, you should wait two weeks before applying paint, varnish, etc. That is the safest time. I have never waited that long (who has the patience to wait that long when you are on the verge of the finishing steps!).

The minimum amount of time really depends on the temps you are working in. In Massachusetts spring weather, I have waited about 5 to 7 days. On sunny days, I would roll the boat out of the garage and let it sit in the sun all day. This extra heat really expedited the final cure. If you can scratch the surface with a finger nail, it isn't ready for paint.

Bristol Finish is a great product. I would also recommend System Three's clear 2-part LPU paint.

Don't forget to wash the epoxy before the final sanding. You want any amine blush off of the surface before sanding.

Be careful with this one!

I waited a month after epoxy and my varnish never hardened, even after sitting in the garage for 2 weeks in hot temps.


Try a test piece with your varnish and your epoxy so you don't end up like I (and others) have had to do and remove the whole varnish coat with a solvents, a razor blade, and a lot of paper towels!