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The different uses for Hawk Epoxy

If you’re a boat owner, there’s a good chance you’re familiar with Hawk Epoxy by SeaHawk Paints; however, did you know there are several diverse ways to use it? In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the different ways Seahawk Hawk Epoxy can be used to keep your boat in top condition. So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced boater, read on for some helpful tips!


What is epoxy?


Epoxy is a type of adhesive that is commonly used to bond two surfaces together. It is made up of a resin and a hardener, which are mixed together to form a tough, durable bond.

Unlike other sealants, epoxy is able to form a strong bond with the surface it is applied to, making it an ideal choice for sealing concrete, metal, and glass. Epoxy is also resistant to temperature changes and UV light, making it ideal for use in outdoor applications. In addition to its practical benefits, epoxy can also be used to create interesting visual effects. When applied to a surface in thin layers, epoxy can create a marbled or even tie-dye effect. As a result, epoxy is a versatile material that can be used for both functional and decorative purposes.Epoxy is typically used for repairing metal, plastic, and glass.

It can also be used for bonding wood, concrete, and ceramic. Epoxy is available in both liquid and powder form. The liquids are typically used for small repairs, while the powders are better suited for larger projects. Epoxy is typically applied with a brush or roller. Once it has been applied, it needs to be allowed to cure for 24 hours before it can be used.

Hawk Epoxy can be used as a sealant to protect surfaces from water and other elements.

Hawk Epoxy

Fairing Hull Imperfections with Hawk Epoxy


Let’s face it, our boats take a beating. They’re exposed to the sun, the salt, the waves, and the wind on a daily basis. So, it’s no wonder that even the best-kept boats can start to show their age after a few years. One of the most common problems is fairing hull imperfections. These are small cracks or indents in the gelcoat that can make your boat look old and worn. But don’t despair, there is a simple way to fix this problem with hawk epoxy.
Hawk epoxy is a two-part epoxy resin that you mix together to create a putty-like substance. Once it’s mixed, you can use it to fill in any cracks or indentations in your hull. It dries hard and sets fast, so you can sand and paint over it once it’s dry. And best of all, it’s very affordable. So, if your boat is starting to look a little worse for wear, don’t worry, just grab some hawk epoxy, and give your boat a facelift.

Patching Holes in a Boat with Hawk Epoxy


There’s nothing worse than getting your boat out on the water only to find that it’s taking on water. Fortunately, patching holes in a boat is relatively easy to do, as long as you have the right materials.

Hardware Replacement Adhesion with Hawk Epoxy


Hawk epoxy’s two-part epoxy provides a strong, permanent bond and can be used on a variety of materials, including metal, glass, ceramic, and plastic. And it sets in just minutes, so you won’t have to wait around for hours for it to dry. Plus, it’s easy to use – just mix the two parts together and apply it to the surfaces you want to bond.

Hawk Epoxy Proper Measuring and Mixing


Anyone who has ever worked with epoxy knows that it is crucial to get the measuring and mixing process exactly right. Too much or too little of either ingredient can ruin the entire batch, and that can be a costly mistake. Hawk Epoxy strives to make the measuring and mixing process as simple and foolproof as possible. Our epoxy products come with clear instructions and easy-to-use tools that make it easy to get the perfect mix every time. If you follow the provided instructions, you can be confident that your epoxy project will turn out just the way you want it to.

Applying Hawk Epoxy


Hawk epoxy is specifically designed for use on boats, and it’s perfect for patching small holes. The epoxy comes in two parts that you mix together, and then it can be applied directly to the hole.
Sometimes, you need something more than just epoxy resin. That’s where Hawk epoxy fiberglass cloth and mat come in. The cloth and mat help to reinforcing the epoxy, making it stronger and more durable. They can be used to repair cracks, leaks, or holes in a variety of surfaces, including concrete, metal, glass, and wood. Best of all, the cloth and mat are easy to apply and can be cut to fit any size or shape. So, whether you’re patching up a small crack or fixing a large hole, Hawk epoxy fiberglass cloth and mat can help you get the job done right.
First, clean the area around the hole with sandpaper to make sure that the epoxy will adhere properly. Then, mix the epoxy according to the instructions and apply it to the hole. Once it dries, the epoxy forms a strong bond that will keep the hole sealed. It is important to note that the curing time may vary depending on your temperature and humidity levels.
Once properly applied and cured your boat will be good as new – no leaks guaranteed!

Sealing a Fiberglass Hull with Hawk Epoxy


Sealing a fiberglass hull with epoxy is a great way to extend the life of your boat. Epoxy is a strong, durable material that will create a waterproof barrier between the hull and the water. It is important to properly prepare the surface before applying the epoxy, and to follow the manufacturer’s directions closely. Once the epoxy has been applied, it is important to allow it to cure properly before using the boat. With proper preparation and care, sealing a hull with epoxy will help to keep your boat in good condition for many years to come.


How to apply Hawk Epoxy


Epoxy is a type of synthetic resin that is often used as an adhesive or coating. It is typically made up of two parts that are mixed together and then cured to form a hard, durable finish. Hawk Epoxy by SeaHawk paints is a two-part epoxy that can be used for a variety of applications, including bonding, coating, and laminating. Before using Hawk Epoxy, it is important to read the instructions carefully and to follow all safety precautions. Once you have mixed the two parts of the epoxy together, you will have a limited time to apply it before it begins to set. For best results, apply the epoxy to a clean, dry surface and use a brush or roller to spread it evenly. Once it has been applied, the epoxy will need to cure for 24 hours before it is fully cured. However,

Hawk Epoxy is a versatile product that can be used in many different ways. We’ve highlighted just a few of the potential applications for this amazing adhesive. If you have questions for how to use Hawk Epoxy or need help bringing your boat painting project to life, contact the Bottom Paint Store customer service team Monday through Friday 9-5 EST 888-505-2313.

Aluminum Hull Repairs and More

jonboatHow to Fix a Leaking Seam or Rivet on Aluminum Boat

As aluminum boats age they show various signs of wear and tear. One of these signs may be a leaking seam or rivet. Over time, rivets can stretched and loosen, causing a gap in the hull integrity and this results in a leak. The solution to this problem is fairly simple and may be fixed at home using just a few tools and know-how. So, how should this problem be addressed?

Locate the Leaking Rivet or Seam

The first step is to find the exact seam or rivet that needs repair. To do this, put the boat in water and observe carefully. You could also put water inside the boat and see where it allows the water to escape from.

Assess the Damage

The second step is assessing the extent of damage to the rivet or seam. If the seam is too wide to be filled or caulked, it will need additional rivets in combination with a sealant product. If the damage is easily visible a sealant or caulk will be sufficient.

Choose a Sealant or Epoxy Product

There are hundreds of products out there that claim to fix leaks and seal cracks. How do you know which to choose? The Bottom Paint Store has done most of the hard work for you and can confidently recommend 2 products that really work.

If your hull is bare aluminum you can cover the entire surface with a high build epoxy primer to help seal and protect it such as Tuff Stuff. For application details see our link for application of a marine epoxy.

Hawk Epoxy KitHawk Epoxy is an excellent product to repair aluminum hulls. We recommend getting one of the Hawk Epoxy Kits that will contain everything you need for filling in the aluminum. Hawk Epoxy is a versatile product that can be used for many other application too. Everyone should own this kit! See video for mixing and selecting fillers.

Another option is G/Flex 650 Epoxy made by West System. This liquid epoxy is more flexible and versatile than regular epoxies and will adhere to almost any surface. The bond that it creates can absorb shock, vibration, expansions and contractions. It will fully cure in 24 hours. Also, West System has created a detailed and comprehensive set of instructions for a wide variety of applications. They can be found at this link and below:

Fix leaking seams and rivets

Patch holes in aluminum hulls

Repair pitted or pin holed surfaces

Now that your leaky rivets and seams have been repaired, you are ready to paint! Check out this How To Article for more information on how to paint your aluminum vessel. Aluma Hawk is a great option or any of our antifouling copper free paint for aluminum.

Which Resin Should I Choose?

When it comes to boat repair, epoxy and polyester resins are both popular choices. But which one is the best option? Epoxy resin is known for its strong bonding properties, making it ideal for repairing cracks and holes. It also has excellent waterproofing qualities, making it ideal for boats that spend a lot of time in the water. Polyester resin, on the other hand, is a bit more flexible than epoxy, making it better suited for repairs that require some give. It’s also less likely to yellow over time, making it a good choice for boats that will be spending a lot of time in the sun. Ultimately, the best choice of epoxy or polyester resin for boat repair depends on the type of project you are tackling. 

 

General Purpose Repair Epoxy Resin Kit

Hawk Epoxy KitEvery household should own a Hawk Epoxy Kit like this. You can use it to repair anything around your home or own your boat. This kit comes with the resin, catalyst and your choice of filler. Just mix them together and you have an excellent bonding, filling, or adhesive paste.

FGCI General Purpose Resin is used for laminating with fiberglass, kevlar and carbon reinforments. It can be tinted with pigment up to 3% and best results are when used at 70-85 degrees F. Hardener varies depending on thickness of fiberglass, the more fiberglass the less hardener as you will generate more heat-never go below 1%. Complete cure needs sanding aid added to resin or PVA while still hot.

Polyester Resin:

MARINE ResinPolyester resins are unsaturated resins that are combined with hardeners, such as MEKP.

Polyester resin is used more for fiberglass lay-up or if you’re going to finish a repair with gelcoat, as the polyester resin will bond to the gelcoat better than epoxy. It is also cheaper than epoxy and a great choice when casting deep molds.

Various Types of Polyester Resin:

Boatyard Polyester Resin is a non-specified resin that contains different types of polyester resins and wax. Boatyard Polyester Resin is not recommended for use below the waterline. The material may cure hard and tack-free due to the included wax. If so, the product will need to be sanded prior to adding another layer in order to promote good bonding.

Clear Casting Polyester Resin is used to cast small objects into a mold. This method can be used to create sculptures, crafts, or industrial prototypes.

Surfboard Polyester Resin is Clear & wax free. It is ideal for building & repairing surfboards because it cures to an almost clear color when applied in a film. Also it highlights underlying graphics.

Iso Marine Resin is based on isophthalic acid. This resin is a step above the general purpose polyester resin and that is reflected in the price. Iso Resin is stronger, more durable, and is the best choice when applying in corrosion environments or elevated temperatures.

Vinyl Ester Resin:

Vinyl ester resins are formulated with a base of polyester resin strengthened with epoxy molecules (a hybrid form of polyester and epoxy and aiding for gelcoat to bond with epoxy) and also use peroxides, such as MEKP, for hardening. These are cheaper than epoxy resins and more expensive than polyester. Ideal temp for use is 77 F, not applied over 1/8th thickness or it will generate too much heat.

Vinyl esters are more tolerant of stretching, less likely to show stress cracking and more resistant to water penetration. Vinyl ester is the choice when improved resistance to moisture is the goal (like repairing a blistered hull).

Long term water exposure (hull or water tank) or if impact resistance is important vinyl ester is usually chosen.

Epoxy Resin:

Epoxy resins are cured with the addition of a hardener. Unlike the polyester and vinyl ester resins, cured with a small amount of catalyst, epoxy resins usually require a lot more, often 1:1 or 2:1. A epoxy resin is the most expensive of these.

Epoxy resin has the best bonding strength as it will bond dissimilar or already cured materials for strong, reliable repair work. This is the most expensive resin but offers the most in its ability to flex, prevent delamination and ease of repair work.

If doing a repair and not overlaying with gelcoat then the epoxy will perform best as it tends to act as a stronger “glue” for the patch to the surrounding surface.

Laminating Epoxy Resin is the correct choice for repairing boats. It is super durable and has high resistance to water. Also, it has very good adhesion to a variety of surfaces including metals, plastics, fiberglass, wood, and glass.  The ratio is well suited for use with high-solids marine, maintenance coating and bonding agents.  The cure time is three days in the sun or a week if it is not. Set time changes with activator and film thickness.  If there is an excessive amount of activator applied , the laminating epoxy will be soft and rubbery. In contrast, if there is not enough activator, the epoxy will not cure hard. Laminating Epoxy is available in 3 different ratios that provide different working and cure times.

 

Epoxy Resin (Bar Top Epoxy Resin):

A Premium Commercial Grade Clear Epoxy Resin – Klear Kote Epoxy Resin is used extensively in coating surfaces and in table tops where a clear, hard and durable coating is required. Commonly seen on bar tops and restaurant tables. Easy to use 1:1 mixing ratio of resin and hardener.  Items coated with it will become permanently preserved and protected for your enjoyment throughout a lifetime. The epoxy resin will not exhibit blushing or sweat out under high humidity conditions.

Epoxy Resin Kits

epoxy resin kit

Epoxy resin kits are sold in two parts, A and B, which should be applied in two stages. The first stage is referred to as the seal coat. The seal coat is brushed on in a thin layer and is used to seal any pores on the surface and prevent air bubbles from forming in the following flood coats. This stage is followed by the flood coat, which will flow and self-level, clean brushes or squeegees can be used to help spread the epoxy. Flood coats are applied in 1/8″ layers at a time, as many as desired can be applied, however, one to three coats is average for most table or bar coatings. Resin kits are often applied on bar tops and tabletops in many bars and restaurants.

Superbond Standard Epoxy Glue

Superbond Standard Epoxy Glue is a two-part, 1:1 epoxy adhesive that has a Vaseline consistency. The product adheres to nearly everything and is a favorite among woodworkers. It’s offered in a fast curing agent, giving 8-15 minutes of working time; a medium, giving 20-30 minutes, and a standard, offering 30-45 minutes. SuperBond is offered in sizes from ½-pint tubs all the way to 5-gallon pails.

Rot Stop Epoxy

Rot stop epoxy is a 2-part epoxy that is 1:1 ratio and is very simple to mix. The coverage is similar to other epoxies, and like other epoxies, the product does vary in thickness based on temperature. The advantage of Rot Stop is it is NOT affected by moisture, making it excellent for deck or flooring and cracking repair, especially moisture damage.

See catalyst chart for mixing guidance:

MEKP Chart
The weight of MEKP is 1/125 grams per CC. 30 Drops is approximately equal to one CC (Cubic Cementer)
NOTE: Using drops for catalyst is only an estimate. In Critical applications MEKP should be measure by using CC’s or Fluid Ounces which are volume measurements. The percentages in the chart: 1% thru 2% are percentages of gelcoat by weight.The CC’s and OZ’s values in the chart have been converted from weight of MEKP to volumes of MEKP.

Resin guns

Gelcoat and resin spray guns are ideal for large surface spraying, such as new mold construction, composite refinishing and large boat surfaces.  Look for a resin gun with a blue die cast body which will ensure a long life. Most HVLP cup guns use nylon flat seal just behind the threads that the air cap attaches to.

resin gun

If you have used a spray gun with a nylon flat seal just behind the threads that the air cap attaches to and cleaned it with acetone, the seals disintegrate so it is best to use one with a plastic seal.