Epoxy - how long before put in sun?

KenZ

Newbie
I've read that putting epoxy in the sun is good for curing it. How long after spraying should one wait before moving it outside? I just finished spraying the engine bay of my Challenger.

Thanks.
 
I think Barry told me a few hours, but he can confirm. Remember, this will significantly reduce your recoat window. The hot sun will cure it much faster, depending how long its in the sun, might reduce window to a day or less. I would let it cure a few days without sunlight if you intend to recoat it with anything within 7 days.
 
Barry would be the one to authoritatively comment on this, but he has said that 6-8 hours in the sunlight significantly shortens the re-coat window. Combination of the suns warmth and more importantly (I think) the UV light from the sun.

As for when to put it in the sun, you can do it as soon as it flashes off. I usually wait till I can touch it with my finger and it is dry, meaning no longer sticky or tacky at all.

@Barry if you comment here could you give us some approximations for equivalent time in the sun. Meaning how long in the sun for a panel to be then ready to coat with 2K Urethane? And how much time in the sun and it's effect on the re-coat window? Would be good to know especially the first question.
 
A lot of factors involved here, but usually one day in full sunlight equals 7 to 14 days inside but not in stone.
Because of all the ifs,, 70 or under two days in the sun is suitable for applying filler or 2k primer the next day.
Really one day is all the sun you need.
BUT in all these years ive heard of people leaving in sun for 5 to 7 days apply primer and sticks like glue. May have more to do what what the open coat really is vs. what I say. (Don't ask)
 
Thanks everyone. It's going to stay in epoxy for several months, so not worried about the recoat window as I know I'll have to sand it again before I do any further work. :) I was really wondering how long I have to wait until I can put it in the sun. It's been a couple of hours now and it's dry to the touch, so I guess it should be okay. I wanted to do this as it's still getting down into the 50's at night and wanted to make sure it's cured enough before it site in the garage tonight.
Thanks again.
 
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