How to Apply Fiberglass Matt to Wood
Fiberglass can increase the strength and durability of a wood surface. With just a few tools and careful preparation, you can achieve a tough, attractive finish on your project. As when dealing with any chemicals, you will need to use the proper protective equipment and be sure you have adequate ventilation. What you will end up with is a project that will last for years.
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Things You'll Need
- Epoxy
- Fiberglass fabric
- Sandpaper
- Plastic squeegee
- Paint brush, medium to good quality
- Drop cloth
- Utility scissors
- Tack cloth
- Chemical resistant vinyl or rubber gloves
- Respirator with appropriate chemical filters
- Safety glasses
- Empty juice can with 1-inch vertical slit at the top
- Acetone or manufacturer recommended solvent for clean-up
Instructions
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1
Sand wood until smooth. Surface should be level, without gouges, dips or gaps. Wipe loose dust from project with tack cloth. Be sure the surface to be finished is completely clear of dust before proceeding.
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2
Drape fiberglass cloth over area to be covered and cut to size. Be sure to leave the trimmed piece 1 to 2 inches larger than needed. This will be trimmed off later.
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3
Place the fiberglass cloth in position. Mix epoxy according to the manufacturer's instructions. Starting in the center of the project, pour a small amount of epoxy onto the fiberglass cloth. Using the squeegee, gently pull epoxy toward the edges of the project.
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4
Keep edges of squeegee clean by drawing through the vertical slit on the juice can. This will reduce dripping and make cleanup easier.
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5
Continue pouring epoxy and spreading with squeegee until the entire surface is covered. Be sure there are no air bubbles visible under the cloth.
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Most epoxy resins will begin to "set up" or harden within 1 hour. When the freshly spread resin has set long enough to become tacky to the touch, use a sharp utility knife to trim excess fabric from the project.
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Allow surface to cure completely. Lightly sand. Clean surface with tack cloth. Mix epoxy and apply second coat with paint brush. Start in the center of the project and work to the edges.
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Tips & Warnings
Use a disposable drop cloth under project. Epoxy cures rock hard and is difficult to remove from almost any surface. Epoxy resin will degrade in sunlight. If your project is to be exposed to outdoor conditions, it should be protected with spar varnish or exterior paint. Clean any tools immediately after use with acetone or manufacturer's recommended solvent.
Always use respirator, gloves and other recommended safety equipment while working with chemicals and fiberglass. Epoxy generates heat as it cures. Sometimes, it generates a great deal of heat. Be sure to keep the drip can and all other materials containing or covered with wet epoxy away from flammable material. Read, understand and follow all manufacturers' instructions and warnings.
