12 Best Bar Top Epoxy Resin- Reviews & Buyers Guide 2021

Image of aImage of bar table with Best Bar Top Epoxy Resin finish

Epoxy resins for wood have proven to be among the best formulas in the protection of bar tops over the years. If you have the right epoxy product, you will give your surface a non-slip and easy to clean finish. Furthermore, it will offer protection to the underlying wood. 

It is hard to choose the best bar top epoxy resin for your various projects. Each time you select the wrong epoxy resin, your finish could be uneven, bubble, or even crack. In a bid to help you get it right with the choice of your epoxy, we have reviewed some of the very best bar top epoxy resins available in the market today.

Here’s the best product on our list:

1. Crystal Clear Bar Table Top Epoxy Resin-Pro Marine Supply

The Crystal Clear Bar Table Top Epoxy Resin by Pro Marine is the perfect answer if you are looking to give your bar table tops that beautiful finish. This formula comes with a UV stable composition that helps resist the yellowing and clouding of the surface. It can withstand impacts such as scratches. Furthermore, this product provides strong resistance against water

If you can follow the instructions this product after application will cure into a bright, glossy, and high-quality finish. There’s high heat during the application of this product which calls for multiple layers of coatings. This epoxy resin takes a little longer to dry and needs just about temperatures of about 75 °F for during the curing period.

The Summary of Top Features

  • It produces a high gloss
  • The product has UV resistance
  • It comes with color stability
  • Good impact strengthPro Marine Supplies Crystal Clear Table Top Epoxy Resin & Hardener (2-Part 1 Gallon Combined Kit) with Cups, Brushes, Gloves, Sticks | UV-Resistant Gloss Coating for DIY Bar, Countertops, Woodworking

Advantages

  • Gives a clear finish
  • It’s durable
  • It contains no VOCs

Disadvantages

  • Users reported it turning pink on some painted surfaces
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2. EPOXY Resin Crystal Clear 1 Gallon Kit. for Super Gloss Coating and TABLETOPS

The Epoxy Resin Crystal Clear from the East Coast Resin has a reputation as the best bar top epoxy resin and served woodworkers diligently for several years.

Among many amazing features about this product is its ability to cure into a high gloss finish that resists both water and scratches. 

What’s unique about this product is that it has no smell. In low exposure to UV lights, this product can last years without yellowing. 

One or two times, users have reported this product to scratch a lot easier than expected. Therefore, you may need a finishing varnish to top off this epoxy. Remember that you need to stir this product properly before application to remove potential bubbles in the process.

The Summary of Top Features

  • It has a very high gloss
  • The product is almost odorless
  • It lasts longer

AdvantagesTable TOP EPOXY Resin Crystal Clear 1 Gallon Kit. for Super Gloss Coating

  • Cures into a high-quality finish
  • Resist scratches, etc.
  • Can stay longer without discoloration

Disadvantages

  • Might bubble if not appropriately stirred before application
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3. Clear Epoxy Resin | Epox It 80 Epoxy Plastic Resin & Hardener

Clear Epoxy Resin from the specialty resin is more or less the same as Pro Marine Supply’s product. This product gives protection against damaging UV rays, which makes it great for all-rounders as far as we are talking about performance.

Clear epoxy resin does so well in a good number of bar tops. However, it gives extreme shine to surfaces that receive more natural light.

What differentiates this epoxy resin from its Pro Marine Supply epoxy counterpart is its faster curing time of about (45 minutes to dry, 24 hours to shrink). Furthermore, this product needs a temperature range that is a bit higher than 75-82°F during the curing process. 

The Summary of Top Features

  • It resists UV light
  • Comes with a high gloss
  • It has a high release formula.

AdvantagesEpox-It 80 Clear Epoxy Resin for Wood Bar Table Top, Encapsulating, Coating Resin Art - 1 Gallon Kit

  • Has self-leveling features
  • Has a faster drying time
  • More shine on natural light

Disadvantages

  • It’s a bit expensive
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4. FamoWood 5050110 Glaze Coat Kit

FamoWood’s Glave Coat Kit is the perfect epoxy resin for beginners in the use of epoxy products. This product comes with one of the best users manual as well as a professional package that makes it a lot easier for first-timers to enjoy working with the formula.

One fantastic feature of this product is its ability to resist heat for up to a temperature of 120 °F. Therefore, it means you can comfortably place warm plates and cups over the bar top without having to worry about damaging the surface.

During the application of this product, it generates heat and dries faster. Therefore, apply several successive thin layers slowly until you achieve the final finish.

The Summary of Top Features

  • It is easy to mix this product in the ratio of 1:1
  • The formula is versatile, and you can use it on any non-waxy material
  • It comes with self-leveling features
  • The product is best for indoor use
  • It can resist temperatures up to 120 °F
  • Using it gives you clear, high gloss, pour-on epoxy coating
  • A single pour equals 60 coats of varnish

AdvantagesFamoWood 5050110 Glaze Coat Kit - Gallon Clear

  • Faster drying
  • Levels itself so you don’t have to worry about uneven application
  • Easy to mix

Disadvantages

  • Requires many layers to achieve the “perfect” finish
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5. Environmental Technology 2128 128-Ounce Kit Lite Pour-On

Environmental Technology’s high gloss epoxy is another best bar top epoxy resin with a reputation for quality performance on different wood surfaces. It belongs to the high-end group of epoxy resins in the market thanks to its qualities such as resistance to heat and alcohol. This product contains no solvents; it’s fast-drying with an exceptional high gloss finish.

Since it contains no solvents, this formula minimizes the chances of corrosion on the wood surfaces and offers much-needed protection to the wood. This epoxy resin is the perfect one if you are looking to protect high-end wood types.

The Summary of Top Features

  • It’s a high gloss finish
  • It can resist heat    
  • The formula resists alcohol    
  • It contains no solvents    
  • Fast drying

AdvantagesEnvironmental Technology 2128 128-Ounce Kit Lite Pour-On, High Gloss Finish, Gallon

  • It dries faster
  • This formula is perfect for high-end wood
  • Produces a high gloss finish

Disadvantages

  • It can turn yellow if applied poorly.
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6. RTG Bar & Table Top Epoxy Resin for Bars Countertops Furniture and Tables

This product is the best bar top epoxy resin if you need a formula with a head-turning, mirror-like finish on your bar tops, kitchen tables, and counters. Even after drying, this product still looks wet. It is easy to use and a 2-part, pourable resin with self-leveling features. 

When it dries, it gives a super-hard, bright, and high-gloss finish with the ability to resist yellowing, scratches, and stains.

RTG Bar and Table Top Epoxy one of the most uncomplicated formulas to use, especially for first time users of the epoxy resin. It requires mixing in the ratio of 1:1; all you need is to pour directly onto your prepared surface. If there are bubbles, they will rise on their own to the surface. Alternatively, you can remove the bubbles easily by waving a hairdryer over the surface.

This formula has properties to deflect heat, making it suitable for holding hot plates of food and drinks for up to a temperature of up to 125°F.

The Summary of Top Features

  • It’s a versatile product that you can use on a variety of wooden surfaces
  • High levels of heat resistance
  • Easy to apply
  • It has a self-leveling features
  • Easy to mix in the ratio of 1:1

AdvantagesRTG Bar & Table Top Epoxy Resin for Bars Countertops Furniture and Tables (2-Quart Kit)

  • It dries into a hard finish
  • It can resist stains, scratches and yellowing
  • Cures into a mirror-like finish

Disadvantages

  • Poor storage can make it thick
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7. Table Top & Bar Top Epoxy Resin, Ultra Clear UV Resistant Finish

The Table Top and Bar Top Epoxy Resin is the answer for those that need a glossy, shiny, and polished finish. Other than its fantastic look, this product offers your wooden structures lasting protection. It comes with protection against dangerous UV lights with added protection against water. 

The application of this product is an easy one, thanks to the fact that it has no odor and contains no VOC making it the best for the environment.

Additionally, this formula comes with a shorter curing time compared to other similar products in the market. Meaning, you will spend a little less time in the application. Above all, this product comes with self-leveling features. Mix it with a hardener in the ratio of 1:1 for the best results possible.

Note

Extra care is essential during the application, as delays can result in increased bubbling. Try and work at the best temperature of 75 degrees to get the best finish possible.

The Summary of Top Features

  • It cures into an ultra-clear finish making it the best for bar tops, and countertops
  • This formula comes with UV resistance 
  • Has a self-leveling property best for corners, over bar rails, and edges.
  • This formula gives you a durable, water-resistant, and impact resistant coating
  • It is a 100% solid with low odor and zero Volatile Organic Compounds

Advantages1 Pc of Table Top & Bar Top Epoxy Resin, Ultra Clear UV Resistant Finish

  • It’s eco friendly
  • Resists water as well as UV
  • Self-leveling

Disadvantages

  • Delayed application results in bubbling
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8. Clear Casting and Coating Epoxy Resin – 16 Ounce Kit

If having a bright crystal finish on wooden structures is your thing then Clear Casting, and Coating Epoxy Resin – 16 Ounce Kit is all that you need. This formula gives you a glossy finish that will last for years.

This epoxy resin protects your surfaces with a rock-solid and transparent layer. Regardless of the area of application from small kitchen tabletops to a polished river table, this epoxy resin is worth every penny.

The formula comes with protection against UV rays and prevents water from getting into the surface of the wood. It can absorb extensive levels of impact for further protection against scratches and so much more.

More about this product is that it contains no odor and contains zero VOC, which makes it safe for the environment as well as the user. The ratio of mixing with the hardener is 1:1 with the entire work taking just about 40 minutes.

Note:

This formula is not very suitable for a gigantic process because it needs more time to be ready for application.

The Summary of Top Features

  • This formula dries into a crystal clear and hard as a rock finish
  • It is a self-leveling, self degassing formula
  • This product contains no odor
  • It comes with protection from UV exposure
  • Easy mixing with a ratio of 1:1 with a 40 minute work time
  • It Has a variety of use from tables and bars tops, etc.

Advantages16oz Crystal Clear Epoxy Resin Kit Casting and Coating for River Table Tops, Art Casting Resin,Jewelry Projects, DIY,Tumbler Crafts, Molds, Art Painting, Easy Mix 1:1 Ratio

  • It’s a durable product
  • Contains no odor making it eco friendly
  • Variety of uses

Disadvantages

  • Not very good for massive projects
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9. MAS Table Top Pro Epoxy Resin & Hardener | Two-Part Kit for Wood

We rate this product as the best bar top epoxy resin because of its top-quality performance. One fantastic thing about MAS Epoxy resin is that professionals for professionals create it. Even if you are an amateur, you don’t have to worry because the application is user friendly. 

This product comes with a complete package that includes a spreader and brush. It’s a 1:1 kit that includes 1/2 gallon of Part A (resin), 0.5 gallons of Part B (hardener), a 4″ spreader, as well as a 4″ brush. 

MAS Table Top Pro Epoxy Resin and Hardener have no odor with no VOC. Besides, it comes with protection against the dangerous ultraviolet radiation from the sun as well as resistance to water.

The coating is durable with a glossy, shiny appearance with enhanced protection. Above all, it comes with extensive coverage that makes it worth every penny.

Note:

The formula needs a long curing time which makes it susceptible to bubbling.

The Summary of Top Features

  • Has a wide coverage
  • It’s a durable formula
  • Easy to work with even for amateurs
  • Gives a glossy, shiny finish
  • The product comes with UV protection.

AdvantagesCrystal Clear Epoxy Resin One Gallon Kit | MAS Table Top Pro Epoxy Resin & Hardener | Two Part Kit for Wood Tabletop, Bar Top, & Resin Art | Set Includes Spreader & Brush | Professional Grade Coating

  • Has no odor
  • Contains no VOCs
  • Easy to mix with the hardener in the ratio of 1:1

Disadvantages

  • Takes longer to cure
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10. Aquaseal Table Top Epoxy Resin Epoxy

Do you want the best bar top epoxy resin for your woodworking jobs? Then, Aquaseal Table Top Epoxy Resin Epoxy got you covered. It’s well known for its extra durable results on all wood types. Additionally, using this product is straightforward. You only need to mix the epoxy resin and the hardener in a ratio of 1:1 and use it for up to 20 minutes.

What’s more about the Aquaseal is how it has a faster curing time. It also UV resistant, which enhances its durability. The item comes in a 1-gallon container to use over a wide span of area. Apart from its primary use on wood, you can use this epoxy resin on other surfaces such as fiberglass, reinforced fabrics, etched aluminum, bare steel, and lead.

Summary of the key features

  • The kit includes a resin half-gallon bottle, 2x plastic stirrers, 2x measuring cups, and a 2x plastic spreader.
  • You only need one part of the resin, and harder to last for a 20 minute job.
  • The item is UV resistant.
  • It has a wide area coverage.

ProsAquaseal Table Top Epoxy Resin Epoxy - Bar Top Epoxy Clear Epoxy Resin Countertop Epoxy Marine Epoxy Resin Epoxy Countertop Kit Epoxy Kit 1 Gallon 2 Part Epoxy Resin Clear Adhesive Primer

  • It’s easy to use.
  • The item is ideal for many woodworking projects.
  • It cures and hardens easily.
  • This product comes with everything you need to get started with your clear epoxy projects.
  • You are provided with convenient customer services.
  • This item comes with an instructional manual.

Cons

  • You can only work with the mixture in a phase that lasts for only 20 minutes.
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11. ResTech Environmental Products LLC UV Resistant Marine Grade EPOXY Resin

ResTech Marine Grade EPOXY Resin is the best clear coat you need for your wood surface. The SC110 comes with a specialized formulation containing 2 components epoxy modified with Cycloaliphatic Amine curative.

With such a composition, the SC110 offers excellent UV protection. Even better, it has Hindered Amine light stabilizers that prevent the degradation of the epoxy resin from the intense sunlight.

What’s best about this product is how it forms an impact and water-resistant surface. Not only that, but the surface is also semi-flexible and resistant to traffic, fuel, oil, and mild acids.

Summary of the key features

  • The kit makes one full gallon when mixed.
  • It’s a clear non-blushing and non-yellowing epoxy.
  • It does not contain cheap diluents or solvents.
  • The clear finish holds up to direct sunlight exposure.
  • You’ll only require a 2:1 resin to hardener mix ratio.

ProsResTech Environmental Products LLC UV Resistant Marine Grade EPOXY Resin (6 Gallon Kit) Clear Non-Toxic Boat BAR TOP Table TOP Fiberglass Wood Laminating

  • It’s UV resistant.
  • 100% solids.
  • Excellent gloss and clarity.
  • It’s resistant to corrosion, chemicals, wear, traffic, oil, fuel, and mild acids.
  • The product has a wide area coverage.
  • It’s designed for marine-grade applications.

Cons

  • It only makes one full gallon when mixed.
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12. Epoxy-Resin-Crystal-Clear-Art 1 Gallon Kit for Coating, puduo20200107

Do you love to DIY, or are you an artist? Then, the puduo20200107 is what you need for your next woodworking project. The kit includes a 64OZ resin and 64OZ hardener that offers long-lasting results for wood finishes.

After applying, you can move your workpiece within 8 hours, and the epoxy will have fully cured in 24 hours. You’ll face no confusion working with the puduo20200107 since you only need one part of the resin and the hardener. What you’ll love most about this item is how you can use the mixed product for up to 45 minutes.

Summary of the key features

  • It comes with 64OZ resin and a 64OZ hardener.
  • Self-leveling.
  • It provides a durable and elegant finish.
  • You have up to 45 minutes of work time.
  • It’s non-flammable.

ProsEpoxy-Resin-Crystal-Clear-Art 1 Gallon Kit for Coating, Casting, Resin Art, Jewelry, Tabletop, Bar Top, Live Edge Tables, Fast Curing 2 Part Epoxy Casting Resin Kit

  • You rest assured of a 100% money-back guarantee.
  • It has no VOCs. 
  • The epoxy has low odor levels.
  • It’s ideal for many woodworking projects.
  • Straightforward to use.
  • It’s a unique first curing resin.
  • This epoxy is perfect for any artist’s project.
  • It offers crystal clear and long-lasting results.

Cons

  • You only have up to 45 minutes of work time.
  • For the best results, you’ll have to work at room temperatures. 
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Best Bar Top Epoxy Resin Buyer’s Guide

There are some of the factors that you need to consider before shopping for the best bar top epoxy resin to ensure that you get the very best product in the market. Some of those factors include:

  • Protection

Epoxy resin provides more than just a shiny and glossy finish to the surface of the wood. It provides protection to the surface against water, UV light as well as impacts such as scratches. 

Therefore, if you are going to the market to shop for epoxy resin, you need to go for the product that will provide your wooden structure with the best protection possible. Your product must offer protection against the damaging rays from the sun, water, excessive heat, as well as other harmful elements.

  • Application process

The application is a critical factor that you need to consider with your epoxy resins. What’s even more important here is to know your level of experience with such formulas. If you are a beginner, you need to go for products that are easy to apply so that you can minimize the chances of making mistakes in the process.

  • Coverage

For economic reasons, you need to go for a product that will cover most of your areas. Even as you go for a product that will cover the largest area possible, you must not forget other factors such as protection. It is possible to go for a wide covering product and get low quality. Therefore, keep every factor intact for the good of your wooden surfaces.

  • Curing Time

Different epoxy resins have different curing times. Also, the curing time depends on the purpose for which you buy the epoxy product. If you need your product for a commercial process, for example, you need a product that will take the shortest time possible to cure. 

Faster curing epoxy resins give the users the flexibility to work faster, especially on projects where time is a factor, and several layers are part of the process. If you choose a slow-curing epoxy in such a case, you may end up spending more time than you actually should.

  • Self-leveling

The epoxy resin with self-leveling properties is the best option because they give you the freedom not to worry about streaking or other possible imperfections that the non-self-leveling epoxy resin may pose. 

In the cases where you might apply the formula poorly, this product will level out to give an elegant and smooth finish making your work easier.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I mix the solution in a ratio other than 1:1?

If you do that, you will get a finish that is less desirable and different from the one that you could have had if you mixed the formula in the right ratio. Therefore, for you to get the best finish, ensure that you mix the resin and the hardener in a ratio of 1:1

What can I do to prevent scratches on my bar top?

You can remove the scratches from the surface by covering them and rubbing them gently and regularly.

Is there a cheaper alternative to epoxy resin?

Yes, there are various alternatives to epoxy resin. Even so, latex comes as the cheapest casting resin.

You may also consider using blended polyester resin. The product has some similarities with the Bondo material used in repairing car bodies. It’s mainly a mixture of polyester and styrene (50/50).

What’s good about this item is that it gives a lot of properties of polyester. It’s also pretty tough. Hence you can sand and polish it to a hard and durable finish.

But if you want the best polyester grade, I suggest you go for the pure ones even though it will cost you 60% more.

Another potential substitute is urethane casting resins. It’s good in adding a blowing agent to the wood’s surface. Besides, it produces better details in most castings. 

The other cheap alternatives to epoxy resin are hard plaster or concrete. What you’ll love about these materials is how they are readily available, and you can use them on larger workpieces.

Here are the remaining cheap alternatives:

  • Metal
  • Plastic
  • Slush Latex
  • Plaster
  • Alabaster
  • Styrene based

Note: Use the above products depending on the purpose.

All the listed substitutes have inferior high temperature properties. Therefore, if you have to meet some temperature requirements, I suggest you choose silicone.

Yes, it might be expensive than the other substitutes. But it’s the only best alternative to the epoxy resin that can work well in high temperatures.

Although epoxy resin is quite expensive, none of the above substitutes can equal its extensive uses and benefits.

Is Fiberglass Resin the Same as Epoxy?

Both epoxy and fiberglass resins are essential materials in woodworking. They have enhanced physical and chemical properties.

However, these two products are not the same. Epoxy mainly composes of a reaction between epichlorohydrin and bisphenol-A. On the other hand, fiberglass resin is made of a combination of organic acids and alcohol.

Let’s check on each material to spot the remaining differences.

Epoxy Resin

  • It’s a class of reactive pre polymers and polymers containing epoxide groups.
  • The resin materials can react with themselves or other reactants, including acids, phenols, alcohols, and many more.
  • Uncured epoxy resin has a poor chemical, mechanical, and heat resistant properties.
  • The curing process might produce sufficient heat, causing thermal degradation (if you don’t control).
  • It’s ideal for many applications, including coating, adhesives, composite material production, and many more.
  • They are used mainly when low shrinkage, low brittleness, and high strength are required.
  • It outperforms most polyester resins.
  • Resistant to cracking, wearing, peeling, and corrosion.
  • The formulas are safer and more user friendly.

Fiberglass Resin

  • You can prepare the resin in various forms.
  • The material can convert into films, liquids, or gels.
  • It’s lightweight.
  • Generally a shorthand for GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic).
  • Useful for different applications such as casting, wood filling, and auto repair processes.
  • Excellent adhesive properties and durability.
  • Highly waterproof.
  • The formulation is harmful thus requires advanced breathing protection.
  • They are used in all types of composite construction.
  • An economical alternative to epoxy resins.
  • More fragile and ideal for temporary fixes or low stress use.

Even so, recent studies revealed that resin could absorb a significant amount of water. Therefore, they are unsafe for manufacturing boats. 

What Kind of Wood Is Good for a Bar Top?

The best wood for use on your bar top will mainly depend on your home or business style. For example, suppose you want a rustic bar, then reclaimed wood is the right type.

Some of the best reclaimed hardwoods include oak, pine, and chestnut. If you want to benefit immensely from these woods, it will be nice to understand the characteristics of each of them.

However, I will suggest using oak. This wood type is stiff, strong, and resistant to warping. It will work best, especially if you prefer an outdoor bar. 

The best part is how it’s readily available, thus ideal for large projects. Even better, reclaimed oak will easily blend in almost any style of business or home. If you want to make it look outstanding, pair it with vintage brick or stone.

Suppose you need a small bar in your home. Choose to use reclaimed chestnut for the bar top.

Do you have a historic home or business? Then reclaimed pine is what you need. This wood type comes from aged trees harvested at approximately 100 years old. 

Using this wood for your bar top will see you enjoy a lovely amber color with guaranteed durability.

The above have been some best types of reclaimed wood for bar tops. What if you prefer using new hardwood?

You don’t have to worry since walnut will offer you the shock resistance and range of colors you need.

You can satin smooth walnut bar tops using conversation pieces with prominent textures and knotholes or muted grain.

For the best elegance, consider combining it with granite or marble. 

The above wood types are so demanding. Therefore, to get something durable and admirable from the ordinary, I suggest Bubinga.

This wood will give your bar top an exotic flair. It’s known for its showy grains that will leave a great visual interest.

Conclusion

Epoxy resins make an essential part of woodworking. If you are looking for the best finish for your tabletops, countertops, kitchen Tables among others, whether you are a professional or a beginner, epoxy products will do the work in the best way imaginable. All you need to do is adhere to instructions and the right procedures in working with these formulas.

In this article, we have reviewed some of the very best bar top epoxy resins that you can find in the market today. Crystal Clear Bar Table Top Epoxy Resin, Pro Marine Supply is our overall best product.

Furthermore, we have provided a buyer’s guide with some of the factors that you need to consider when shopping for the best products to ensure that what you get serves you right. 

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Tyron Otieno

Tyron is an avid woodworker and writer. He founded this website to help other woodworkers, whether hobbyists or professionals by sharing his knowledge and experiencie after a decade of woodworking.