River Table Epoxy Calculator

River channels are never perfectly straight. Enter the table length, a few widths of the river and its depth. The calculator averages the widths, adds extra for leaks and wood, and tells you how many layers to pour.

1. Table and river

River widths, measured along the table (leave unused boxes empty):

2. Your epoxy

Find the maximum pour depth on your deep pour epoxy label, in the same unit as above.

You need

– gal

– fl oz · – liters

Average river width–
Layers to pour–
Per layer–
Resin (Part A)–
Hardener (Part B)–

Next steps

Split each layer into resin and hardenerAdd a table top flood coatEpoxy for common river tables

How to use this calculator

  1. Enter the length of the table and how deep the river is (usually the thickness of the slabs).
  2. Measure the river width at 3 to 5 points along the table and enter each one.
  3. Enter the maximum pour depth from your deep pour epoxy, so you know how many layers to pour.
  4. Keep at least 10% extra. Gaps under the slabs and dry end grain soak up more than you expect.

How the calculation works

  • Average width = sum of the widths ÷ number of widths
  • Volume = length × average width × depth
  • Layers = depth ÷ maximum pour depth, rounded up

The volume is converted to fluid ounces (1.805 cubic inches each) and gallons (231 cubic inches), your extra percentage is added, and the total is split by your mix ratio.

Epoxy for common river tables

Including 10% extra:

River tableGallonsLiters
Coffee table, 48 in long, 6 in river, 1.5 in deep2.067.8
Coffee table, 48 in long, 8 in river, 2 in deep3.6613.8
Dining table, 72 in long, 8 in river, 1.75 in deep4.818.2
Dining table, 84 in long, 12 in river, 2 in deep9.636.3

Tips for a river table pour

  • Seal the slab edges and the mold seams first. Leaks are the most common reason people run short.
  • Use a deep pour epoxy for the river, and respect the maximum depth per layer on the label.
  • Wait between layers as long as your product says, usually until the layer is firm but still slightly tacky.
  • Keep the room temperature steady. Big temperature swings during curing cause waves and cracks.

Frequently asked questions

How much epoxy do I need for a river table?

Multiply the length by the average river width and the depth, then add about 10%. A 72 inch dining table with an 8 inch river that is 1.75 inches deep needs about 4.8 gallons of mixed epoxy.

How much epoxy for a river coffee table?

A 48 inch coffee table with a 6 inch river, 1.5 inches deep, needs about 2.06 gallons (263 fl oz) including 10% extra.

How many layers should I pour a river table in?

Divide the depth by the maximum pour depth on your deep pour epoxy. A 2 inch deep river and a product rated for 1 inch per pour means two layers. Pouring too thick can overheat, crack or yellow the epoxy.

Can I use table top epoxy for a river table?

No. Table top epoxy is made for thin coats of about 1/8 inch and gets too hot in a thick pour. Use a deep pour (casting) epoxy for the river, and table top epoxy only for a final coat.

How do I measure a river that is not straight?

Measure the width of the river every 6 to 8 inches along the table and enter those widths. The calculator averages them, which is close enough for buying epoxy.