Why Epoxy Yellows and Ambers Over Time

Several factors cause epoxy to develop a yellowish tint: prolonged heat exposure, UV light from sunlight, aging, and poorly formulated epoxy resins.

Not all epoxies are created equal, they vary widely in quality. The old adage “you get what you pay for” rings especially true in the epoxy coatings industry. High-quality epoxies formulated for art, preservation, or functional surfaces should include UV stabilizers in their formula. Heat-rated resins are essential for applications like counters and tabletops, allowing you to place hot items directly on the surface. Cheaper imported products are inconsistent and unreliable for long-term performance. Choose a product with at least ten years of proven field performance, as age can contribute to yellowing.

Advantages of Quality Epoxy

Epoxy offers numerous advantages across various applications. For countertops and food preparation areas, it provides a nonporous, food-safe surface that prevents germs and contaminants from penetrating. For preservation projects like encasing flowers, jewelry, or memorabilia, epoxy creates a crystal-clear, protective coating that showcases your items beautifully. Epoxy can be seamlessly applied and customized to any color or pattern. When properly formulated and applied, it should maintain its clarity and last indefinitely.

Protecting Against Yellowing

To protect your epoxy projects, keep them away from prolonged heat sources. For countertops, use cutting boards, trivets, or hot pads under crockpots, coffee makers, and other heat-generating appliances. For preserved flowers and decorative pieces, display them away from direct heat vents or warm lighting fixtures.

Avoid placing epoxy projects in direct sunlight or outdoors, as UV exposure accelerates breakdown and yellowing. If displaying near windows, consider UV-filtering glass or window film. Indoor environments with ambient light are ideal for maintaining clarity. While epoxy may deepen slightly in color after several years, most colors and applications show no noticeable change. Clear epoxy used for flower preservation and white surfaces are most susceptible to visible color shifts, potentially developing a cream or amber tone.

Restoring Yellowed Epoxy

If yellowing occurs on flat surfaces like countertops or art pieces, it typically affects only the top layer. Thicker epoxy applications can be carefully sanded to remove the discolored surface. After sanding, high-quality epoxy can be buffed and polished to restore clarity. For three-dimensional pieces like preserved flowers or encased objects, prevention is key since restoration is more difficult. Many professionals offer maintenance and restoration services for epoxy surfaces.

Questions?

If you need assistance with your epoxy project, reach out to iCoat for help. We have over 35 years of experience in epoxy applications, from countertops to artistic preservation.