Epoxy choices

[ear3]

I need to get some epoxy to fill cracks and stabilize splits (in combination with butterflies and/or dominoes) in the reclaimed oak I'm working with.  Never really used epoxy on this scale for wood projects, so I'm wondering what kind to get.  I'm also unsure whether I should get something that dries super hard vs. something that has slightly more flex to it to move with the wood.  Thanks in advance.

 

[blaszcsj]

I have been following these guys on instagram and their hot melt product looks pretty good.

https://woodrepair.eu/

 

[deepcreek]

We use System 3 General Purpose Epoxy Resin with their #2 Medium hardener.  I sometimes add the black pigment but generally use it clear. 

It usually needs to be applied in two or more lifts/layers to avoid embedded bubbles just below the surface.  The System 3 syringes are helpful for controlled application.

If I'm concerned about staining the surrounding wood, I will either apply a coat of spray lacquer beforehand (to be sanded off later) or use blue painters tape.

For smaller applications, we use the Locktite 5-minute dual syringe epoxy from Home Depot.

 

[#Tee]

west system epoxy

 

[MrToolJunkie]

I use System 3 and the pigments - you can get good color match by mixing pigment or just use it clear. I use the 5 minute - it does not give you a ton of working time, but enough for most repairs/gap filling and the faster set means less downtime waiting for curing. I have heard great things about West too, so both systems are likely on par with each other and good for your application.

I use little medicine cups to mix the batch I need and if you opt for the quick-dry formulas, at least with System 3, it gets very hot as it starts to cure - so you have to be mindful of that - when you start to feel heat from the chemical reaction it is getting close to being cured.

 

[RKA]

The wood whisperer did a video on this sometime in the last year.  I remember he used west system 105/205 I think and heated it to reduce the viscosity before pouring it into the checks on a piece of outdoor furniture.  Where they went completely through, he lined the bottom of the board with painters tape to contain the epoxy.  After it cured he sanded everything out and it looked pretty good.
You'll probably find the video on his youtube channel or directly on his site.

Edit:  West Marine sells it locally if you have one near you.
Edit 2: Added link to video

http://www.thewoodwhisperer.com/videos/durable-outdoor-finish/

 

[ear3]

Thanks for the suggestions

 

[Vondawg]

West System