Questions about the edges of bartops and how to protect them

[Everettc]

We are building a modified L-Shaped kegger bar (with out the keg box). We have two counter tops, 1 bartender counter (8′ x 19″) and one ‘customer’ counter (9′ x 16″ with 32″ x 16″ L part) . The counter tops are both made out of laminated hemlock and stained with a water based poly to seal and colour.

The next step is to decide exactly how to trim it out before pouring the EnviroTex Lite for that nice thick shiny protective coat. I would rather not put a trim on all sides of the counter, was actually thinking of doing a simple router edge on the front side of the bartenders counter and the customer’s counter will have the arm rest on one side (raised to hold resin) and the beer gutter on the other (no raised edge).

If I don’t trim the edge will the Envirotex still work? I’m thinking probably not??

Can I make a temporary edge to hold in the resin? (I read somewhere someone using packing tape but can’t remember if it was with Envirotex or a different product) How do I protect the bare side once I remove the temporary edging?

If I do trim the edges to give a nice deep well to contain the Envirtex what do you use on the top and sides of the trim pieces to keep the same look and protection as the top which has the Envirotex on it?

I have searched through the forum but didn’t see anyone who didn’t trim the bar top or anyone mention how they protected the trim that they did build.

I know I’m asking a lot here but I really don’t want to screw up at this point.
Any and all suggestions are greatly appreciated. Thank You.

[brimichm]

Could you use 1/4 inch plywood or 2×4 as a form and bar clamps to hold it tight against the edge. Now, how to keep the envirotex from leaking into the cracks or sticking to your form ? Would a coating of oil or Pam etc…keep it from stickin until the envirotex cured enough to hold ite shape?

[Anonymous]

I have asked that same question. I was told that either painter’s tape or masking tape would hold the envirotex in place.

I have talked to a few people that have used this and they made sure to tell me to seal every crack, crevice etc. with tape. I am going to put this under my bar rail where it meets the bar top and any other place where it looks like the envirotex might leak through.

I did see somewhere on here, where it said to not use any kind of caulk as this would push the envirotex away.

Let me know if you have any questions.

[Anonymous]

Yeah, that stuff stays runny for a long time. Watch the tape if you use a torch to remove the bubbles! As Probak118 suggested, using some light plywood a small amount of clear silicone caulk an a brad nailer, just form up a temporary edge that can later be torn off and the edges sanded if needed.
You may have to wait over a month before you can sand Envirotex.
I might even suggest using some wax paper to prevent the edge from sticking. Let any silicone dry completely before you pour. I wish I could post a drawing in here….hmmm?
Anyway, whatever you do, keep in mind that whatever you use as a form, it should be able to take quick passes from a propane torch. Envirotex is water based and the torch is needed to remove air bubbles for that glass like look.

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