Epoxy primer to seal non-metal statue ?

J

Jben

This old statue appears to be of a porous clay type of material and as you can see the weather has caused the old paint to flake off. It has been in the family for almost 50 years and until the past two years it spent it's time indoors. Now it's a garden decoration and it's obvious that wasn't such a good idea to leave it outside and unprotected.

1. If I get most of that loose paint off would this be an application for two coats of epoxy primer to seal it up so as to resist future moisture and weather damage?

2. If I go with the SPI white epoxy, I understand (if correct) that the sun will tend to change the color tint towards yellow ? Is that about the only downside or should I go ahead and plan on following up with a top coat of single stage for best protection and looks?

I know I'll probably have more in material cost than this young lady is worth but don't mind if it might protect and save her. However, if it's really going to be a lost cause I'd appreciate knowing so not to get frustrated after all of the work I'll have to put into it.



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you say get most of the flaking paint off but i will tell you get ALL the white paint off then epoxy prime it with 2-3 good coats then 2 coats of a single stage over it. yes white epoxy will turn very yellow over time.
 
I'd also recommend moving her into a low humidity environment for long enough to allow time for the moisture to escape from the clay, before epoxy. Then seal bottom well along with the rest, and attach bumpers under the base to avoid future damage to the finish.
 
I dont know about the rest of you, but she looks pretty sweet wanting to show her natural skin color from under the white paint.
 
I didn't know I had to get all of the paint off. That is going to be interesting considering all of the detailed area and not wanting to be too aggressive considering the clay body structure. Maybe a heat gun would help the paint to lift off? I'll have to try some different methods to find what works best.

Thanks for the help and suggestions.
 
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