3 Really Important Considerations When Buying Epoxy 

3 Critical Considerations When Buying Epoxy Resin

Choosing the right epoxy resin goes far beyond just price or appearance. It’s about health, safety, quality, and values. Whether you’re an artist, contractor, or DIY enthusiast, here are three essential factors to consider before purchasing epoxy:

1. Where Is It Made — and Why It Matters

Made in the USA vs. Overseas Manufacturing

Buying American-made epoxy isn’t just patriotic—it’s practical. When you choose epoxy manufactured in the United States, you’re supporting local jobs, small businesses, and the national economy. U.S.-made products generate tax revenue that helps fund our schools, hospitals, and public infrastructure.

But the benefits go beyond economics:

• Environmental Standards: U.S. chemical manufacturing is held to far stricter environmental regulations than countries like China. That means lower emissions, safer disposal practices, and better protections for people and the planet.

• Labor Practices: Overseas factories may expose workers to harmful chemicals without proper safety gear or fair wages. U.S. manufacturers are required to comply with OSHA standards and labor protections.

• Supply Chain Reliability: With a domestic supplier like iCoat, you’re less likely to face long lead times, inconsistent inventory, or shady practices.

2. Health, Safety & Environmental Impact

Not all epoxies are created equal. Many imported and low-cost products are filled with harmful additives and lack transparency. Here’s what you need to know:

• Toxic Ingredients: Some budget epoxies can contain fillers like asbestos or fiberglass, which can pose serious health risks—especially for those with amine allergies.

• Off-Gassing & VOCs: Epoxy blends with high VOCs release fumes that can linger indoors long after installation. Look for low- or no-VOC, low-odor formulations like those from iCoat.

• Food Safety: Some epoxies leach chemicals over time. Only certified food-safe epoxies—those cured properly and made from non-toxic components—are safe for surfaces where food is prepared.

• Indoor Use Warnings: Many cheap epoxies have fine print warning against indoor use. iCoat’s professional-grade resins are safe for indoor applications when handled properly.

💡 Always ask for the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) before purchasing epoxy. If the vendor can’t provide it—walk away.

3. Product Quality & Consistency

Quality matters—especially if you’re using epoxy in a business or artistic practice. Ask these questions:

• Will it resist yellowing or ambering over time?

• Is it heat-resistant enough for countertops?

• Does it cure the same way every time?

• Are bubbles easy to release?

• Will it stay crystal-clear for years?

Cheap epoxy might save you a few dollars upfront—but it can ruin your work and reputation down the line. American-made epoxy resins are held to higher quality standards and offer consistent, dependable performance. That’s why professionals choose iCoat.

Beware of Misleading Claims

Here’s an actual example from a foreign supplier trying to flood the U.S. market:

“Our epoxy is UV resistant, scratch resistant, food-safe, odorless, and FDA approved.”

Let’s break it down:

• UV Resistance? All epoxies amber over time. UV stabilizers delay it, but nothing stops it forever. Anyone who says otherwise is misleading you.

• Scratch Resistant? Yes, most epoxies are hard. But no surface is scratch-proof. Claims like “85D Hardness” are common—but misleading without context.

• Antibacterial Agent? In the U.S., antimicrobial claims require EPA registration under FIFRA. Unapproved additives in imported epoxy could classify it as a “grey market pesticide,” subject to legal penalties.

• No BPA, No VOC, FDA Approved? Many foreign-made products throw around certifications that either don’t apply to epoxy or are impossible to verify. If your supplier isn’t U.S.-based, there’s often no recourse if something goes wrong.

Why iCoat is Different

• ✅ 100% Made in the USA

• ✅ 30+ Years in Business

• ✅ Proprietary Blends Only—No Generic Imports

• ✅ Trusted by Contractors, Artists & Manufacturers Nationwide

• ✅ Compliant with All U.S. Health & Safety Standards

Protect Your Health. Protect Your Work. Choose iCoat.

Most epoxy resins on the market are made overseas—with minimal oversight and questionable practices. iCoat is 100% American-made, with industry-leading quality, transparency, and support.

👉 Check your vendor.
👉 Ask questions.
👉 Choose products made with your health, your art, and your future in mind.