When should I remove the tape dam after pouring epoxy?

Leave the dam in place for the full 3-day cure, then remove it. Some epoxy systems have you pull the tape dam at the gel stage so the resin can flow over the edges. UltraClear Bar & Table Top Epoxy doesn't need that. If you want the edges coated, skip the dam entirely: pour the flood coat across the top and it will self-level and flow over the sides to coat them seamlessly. This video shows how: https://youtu.be/rIGV5qugAqg

Use a dam only when you need to keep the epoxy contained, for example to build up a thick, clear edge or on a top that sits against a wall. A dam doesn't let you pour thicker in one go. The flood coat still self-levels to 1/8" per layer, so for a 1/4" build-up pour a second flood coat 4 to 6 hours after the first. Voids deeper than 1/4" should be filled with UltraClear Deep Pour Epoxy first. Then leave the dam alone until the last layer has cured for 3 days.

Expect a sharp, raw edge where the epoxy met the tape. That's unavoidable with any temporary dam, and it will need sanding or a router pass to clean up. The only ways around it are to let the epoxy flow over the sides, or to use a permanent raised edge such as decorative trim or a bar rail.

Our river table tutorial shows the epoxy tape in use: https://youtu.be/-vRSDpLQPwQ