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Best Resin Countertops for Laboratories in 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best resin countertops for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: June 6th, 2024

🔬Picking out the right resin countertop for your laboratory can really make a difference in how smoothly everything runs and how safe your workspace is. Whether you're weighing the pros and cons of epoxy resin versus phenolic resin, it’s crucial to know what each one brings to the table.

Both are known for being tough and standing up to harsh chemicals, but they each have their own special perks that work best in different lab settings. After a lot of digging and comparing, we’ve shortlisted the top resin countertops that really shine in various lab applications.

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Overall Best: Epoxy Resin Countertops

If longevity and resistance to extreme conditions are key priorities, epoxy resin countertops stand out as the best choice. These countertops are engineered to endure rigorous use, fending off scratches, impacts, and thermal shocks, making them indispensable in labs with heavy equipment and constant activity. Our research highlights their superior resistance to a vast array of chemicals—ranging from acids and bases to solvents—proving them ideal for chemical, biological, and pharmaceutical labs. Moreover, their ability to withstand extreme temperatures ensures reliability under intense heat, which is often generated by lab equipment. This combination of features makes epoxy resin countertops the go-to choice for maintaining a robust and resilient workspace.

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Runner-up: Phenolic Resin Countertops

Phenolic resin countertops offer a compelling mix of durability and affordability, making them the runner-up in our recommendations. While they may not match the impact and scratch resistance of epoxy resin, they still provide good protection against most laboratory chemicals and moisture. Phenolic resin is notably easier to fabricate, allowing for a high degree of customization, including a wide range of colors to fit any design preference. Its cost-effectiveness and customization potential make phenolic resin an attractive option for budget-conscious labs without compromising on essential features.

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Budget Pick: Phenolic Resin

Leecraft BK-1 Blank Phenolic Sheet, Nominal 11" x 15" x 1/2" (Colors Vary)

For those seeking budget-friendly solutions without sacrificing quality, phenolic resin countertops are an excellent pick. Known for their cost-effectiveness, brands like TRESPA, FunderMax, and Wilsonart SPC offer phenolic resin options that deliver robust performance at a lower price point. These countertops excel in areas requiring frequent cleaning due to their strong resistance to moisture and bacteria. Their balance of affordability, durability, and flexibility in design makes phenolic resin countertops a smart choice for various laboratory settings.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$19.99 at Amazon

Best for High Heat & Chemicals: Epoxy Resin

Teexpert Epoxy Resin 2 Gallon Kit, Crystal Clear Resin Epoxy Food Safe with Pump, Casting Resin Bubble Free Anti Yellowing, Art Resin Epoxy Resin for Jewelry Making, Table Top, Wood & Art Crafts

When it comes to standing up to high heat and aggressive chemicals, epoxy resin countertops are unrivaled. These surfaces are specifically designed to handle extreme conditions, including direct exposure to open flames, without compromising their structural integrity or appearance. Laboratories dealing with continuous high temperatures or highly caustic chemicals should consider epoxy resin for its superior performance in such demanding environments. Its exceptional resistance to heat and chemicals ensures a safe and reliable work surface in the most challenging of lab conditions.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$18.49 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Teexpert Epoxy Resin 2 Gallon Kit? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Does the Teexpert Epoxy Resin 2 Gallon Kit produce many bubbles?

From what we've gathered, the Teexpert Epoxy Resin 2 Gallon Kit seems like a solid pick if you're worried about bubble formation in your projects. The manufacturer describes it as working well with different surfaces, like wood, which makes it versatile for things like countertops and tabletops. Based on our research, a key feature is its ability to self-level and minimize bubbles, giving you a smooth finish—especially useful when working with wood. Folks have mentioned that it mixes easily and doesn't create too many bubbles, resulting in a clear, glossy look that enhances the wood's natural beauty. Several people have pointed out that the resin's low viscosity helps cut down on bubbles, making it easier to handle and giving you that polished, shiny result you want. It's worth noting that this resin is also food-safe and non-toxic, meeting ASTM D-4236 standards, which could be a bonus if your project involves food contact, like kitchen surfaces or serving boards. To get the best results with minimal bubbles, make sure you follow the mixing instructions carefully—a 1:1 ratio of resin to hardener by volume is key. Proper mixing is crucial, particularly when working with wood, to achieve that top-notch finish this resin is known for. Overall, if you're in the market for an epoxy resin that doesn't bubble excessively and leaves a nice finish, it seems like the Teexpert Epoxy Resin 2 Gallon Kit could be a good choice. Whether you're a hobbyist or tackling professional projects, it looks like a reliable option for working with wood.

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Is the Teexpert Epoxy Resin 2 Gallon Kit easy to mix and use?

Based on our research, the Teexpert Epoxy Resin 2 Gallon Kit is pretty user-friendly when it comes to mixing and using. The manufacturer mentions a 1:1 mixing ratio, meaning you just combine equal parts of the resin and hardener. This setup makes the process straightforward, whether you're just starting out or have been crafting for a while. The resin is also noted to be food-safe according to ASTM D-4236 standards. This means it's non-toxic and can be used for items that might touch food once it's fully cured. So, it's perfect for things like countertops and coasters. Just keep in mind that it needs about 24 hours to cure completely before it's ready for any food contact. On top of that, the resin is odorless and solvent-free, which is a bonus if you're working indoors. These features make it pretty appealing for home use, especially if you're wary of the fumes from other types of epoxy. People seem to really like its high-gloss finish and durable nature once it sets. This makes it great for projects that need a tough surface, like tabletops or art pieces. But, a heads up: the product isn't designed for use on tumblers, as mentioned in the product description. So while you're fine making food-safe coasters, you should stick to the guidelines to ensure your project's success. Overall, if you're looking for an epoxy resin that's easy to use and safe for food-related projects, this kit seems like a solid choice. Just be sure to follow the instructions from the manufacturer to get the best results from your creative projects.

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How clear is the Teexpert Epoxy Resin 2 Gallon Kit after curing?

If you're curious about how clear the Teexpert Epoxy Resin 2 Gallon Kit is after curing, it seems to deliver on that front pretty well. From what we've found, people consistently praise its excellent clarity once it's cured. It's a good pick for projects where you want to really show off some details or encapsulate items clearly. The manufacturer's description supports this, saying the resin is made to be odorless, non-toxic, and free of solvents—plus it meets some ASTM safety standards. That means it's not just clear, but also safe to use for a range of purposes, even ones that involve food. Folks have made things like coasters and trays and have been pretty happy with how clear and bubble-free they turn out. Many people have found that it's easy to work with due to its self-leveling properties, which help in getting a smooth finish. Just a heads up though—if you want to achieve the clearest results, it’s important to stick to the mixing instructions and pay attention to the thickness of the layers you’re pouring. Skipping these steps can lead to issues like bubbles or a cloudy look. And if you’re making items that might be used with food, make sure any pigments or materials you add to the resin are also food-safe. While the resin is marketed as safe for contact with food when used properly, using non-certified colorants can mess with this feature. So, if you need a clear resin for various projects, the Teexpert Epoxy Resin Kit seems like a solid bet. Just stick to the directions and use safe additives if you're going for food-related items to keep everything clear and up to standards.

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Best for Customization: Phenolic Resin

Phenolic resin countertops shine in their ability to be customized to meet specific design needs. Whether you require a unique color palette or specific dimensions, phenolic resin can be tailored to suit your exact specifications. Beyond customization, these countertops offer excellent resistance to moisture and microbial growth, making them suitable for highly hygienic environments. The ease of fabrication and wide range of design options make phenolic resin an ideal material for laboratories that demand both functionality and aesthetic versatility.

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