Epoxy resin for coating plywood prior to painting?

[lakelover]

I want to coat my newly made transom board and also my new plywood floor with epoxy resin before painting them. I don't want to go with the cloth, just the resin.

What's the most cost effective brand or type to use? I've seen the West system mentioned, is it good to use these without the fiberglass cloth?

Another thought I had was to use some left over Gluvit. The final coats of paint should protect it from UV. What's the best to use keeping the budget in mind?

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Epoxy resin for coating plywood prior to painting?

Well west systems is good stuff but wow allot of money.......

You could use the left over gluvit but it will not go far

If the deck is not yet installed...... you really should use some cloth with the resin's (epoxy or polyester) fiberglass cloth will keep it intact. Resin alone will crack.

The truly important portion to seal in the transom is the top edge and the exposed wood in the splashwell. Water gets under that aluminum strip and just soaks into the wood....

"Old school" method was to coat the wood with marine varnish in multiple coats to seal up wood.

I guess the decision is based on budget..... polyester resin is about 1/3 the cost of epoxy...... you will have plenty if you budgeted for epoxy and go with polyester and cloth instead..... boats were and are still being built that way.

 

[lakelover]

Re: Epoxy resin for coating plywood prior to painting?

Thanks, Bob, good stuff to mull over, as usual.

 

[tallcanadian]

Re: Epoxy resin for coating plywood prior to painting?

Not sure why you don't want to use fiberglass cloth or mat but it will give you incredible strength and protection from the elements and last for years to come. As Bob said, it will crack.

 

[lakelover]

Re: Epoxy resin for coating plywood prior to painting?

Not sure why you don't want to use fiberglass cloth or mat but it will give you incredible strength and protection from the elements and last for years to come. As Bob said, it will crack.

Well, because I know how to paint, but I don't know how to use the glass. I guess maybe it's time for me to throw in the towel & stop being so lazy and impatient and learn a new skill! If I'm directed to the right materials, I'm sure I can pick it up pretty quick.

 

[tallcanadian]

Re: Epoxy resin for coating plywood prior to painting?

My boat was my first fiberglass job. Take your time and ask lots of questions. I promise you, you will not regret doing it. It will likely outlast you.