One of the challenges associated with flexible epoxies is age hardening. Age hardening refers to the gradual loss of flexibility and the development of a more rigid and brittle character over time. This process is accelerated by exposure to environmental factors, such as UV radiation and moisture. As wood elements such as exterior trim, doors ,windows ,and facia boards are often exposed to outdoor conditions, this phenomenon can pose a significant problem. To combat age hardening in flexible epoxies for wood repair, cross-linking inhibitors are introduced into the formulation during the manufacturing process.
Cross-linking inhibitors are compounds that slow down or hinder the curing process, allowing the epoxy to remain in a more flexible state even after curing. By extending the curing time, these inhibitors provide a crucial window of opportunity to bond with the wood and maintain flexibility while minimizing age-related hardening.
Flexible epoxies have revolutionized the field of wood repair by offering a durable and flexible solution to address age hardening often associated with conventional epoxy compounds. Cross-linking inhibitors play a pivotal role in mitigating the effects of age hardening, preserving the wood’s structural and cosmetic integrity, and extending the life of the repair. When used judiciously and in combination with the right epoxy resin, cross-linking inhibitors make flexible epoxies an invaluable tool for wood rot restoration and repair. By harnessing the power of these inhibitors, we can continue to celebrate and preserve the beauty and longevity of wood in our architectural maintenance endeavors.
Dura-Fix Warm and Cold Weather Formulas have been engineered to take advantage of the benefits of cross-linking inhibitors and are built into the backbone of the resin technology. The dual cartridge dispensing system assures the correct ratio of resin to hardener, eliminating guess work and minimizes product waste.
