I applied an epoxy sealant to a table and it's not drying--how can i seal the table?

Question

I bought an epoxy mix at home depot about 4 weeks ago to cover a coffee table and side table I decoupaged. I poured both of the mixtures to equal levels, mixed them together and stirred until clear, just as the package instructs. Here is my problem, 4 weeks later and both pieces of furniture are still tacky in most places and in some places not even the least bit dry. I think I poured too much in those spots and know that maybe eventually (a year from now?? haha) they will dry, but I've already waited FOUR WEEKS and am moving this furniture into an apartment pretty soon so I'm looking for suggestions of what I can now put over the coffee and side tables to cover the epoxy but keep my decoupage in tact (essentially something translucent that covers well, can be eaten off of and is not glass because glass is very much out of my price range). I know I could reapply the epoxy but I'm afraid that then I'll have to wait another 4 week to a year for it to dry again and I don't have the time. Thanks!

Answer 1

Either park your table in direct sunlight and let "the sun GODS" do the work or use a hair dryer to warm the table (long time and keep it moving) Don't get the finish too hot in any one place.

You might try a thin coat of clear acrylic spray to cover the epoxy. The epoxy doen't "dry", it cures. The curing process does not need air, only time.

If you are still having trouble, contact the mfgr of the epoxy. There may be a bad batch and a recall or they might be able to suggest an altermative.

( Note for future ) More is not always better...thin layers with any liquids.

Answer 2

Oops, sounds like either a bad mix or a bad product. You could try a torch, keeping it 6" from your project but keep the torch moving at all times. When doing a project like yours, using a torch right after the epoxy is applied will remove bubbles.

You might contact the manufacturer and tell them what happened, they may fix it for you. I had a problem with Behr stain on a door, turned the door green. Behr sent someone out to remove the stain and restain it.

Answer 3

Sounds like you need dry heat. Can you keep it out in the sun? I would not try to cover it up because there will be contact points that will most likely stick together. By all means...do not apply another coat. It will dry some day!....Sorry that you have to wait. If your climate is humid, try cranking up the air conditioning.