Gluing Types and Things To Consider
If you are doing any kind of woodwork there will come a time where you will need to bond two pieces of wood together. One of the easiest ways to do this is with glue. But with so many out there to choose from, how do you know which is right for the type of woodwork you are doing? Read our blog all about gluing tips and techniques for more information!
This article will help to guide you through the types of glue available for woodworking, which ones are suited to which tasks, application and removal as well as troubleshooting tips.
Things to consider
There are a minefield of things to first consider before you start gluing up. Some of the things you might want to consider is the type of timber you are using, the type of project you are making and hold you need, as well as environmental factors and the impact this could have on the success of your glue up.
Some questions you might want you ask yourself before you begin, are:
1. Open time - How long you have once the glue is open before it will cure. If its a warm environment that open time will be reduced. Some glues will have an extended open time and will be useful for large projects where application will take time.
2. Clean up - How easy is your glue to clean up and will this impact the overall finish of your project.
3. Where is the item going - Is it for internal or external use? And is your glue waterproof?
4. Is it permanent - While most gluing needs will be permanent, some might be temporary and will need to be removed
5. Storage - Where will you be keeping your glue once opened. Heat and sunlight can play a part in the shelf life of open glues and adhesives. Again the cold can also effect its shelf life once open.
Types of adhesives
Let's now explore the many types of adhesives and look at what they are best used for.
Polyvinyl acetate - Also known as PVA glue. PVA is probably considered the most used glue in woodworking for a number of reasons: it's cheap, it's strong, safe to use, is long lasting once open and is water resistant. It's an all round glue that's used in most applications.
Polyurethane glue - Has a strong bond adhesion which makes it an attractive glue to woodworkers. As a non water-based adhesive it does make joints swell as it does not get drawn into the wood pores. Polyurethane glue works via a chemical reaction to moisture therefore is a great choice when gluing timber with a high moisture content. However, cure times can take longer.
Cyanoacrylate (CA) glue - Also know as 'Super Glue'. It's clear and cures quickly which makes it a great choice for trims or furniture repairs or more intricate details. It holds well but strength is not a key feature of CA glue. Its a good choice if needed to holding something temporarily
Hide glue - The original glue. Used mostly in instrument making and in traditional woodworking and restoration projects.
Epoxy Resin adhesives - Epoxy resins offer a strong, permanent bond which will adhere to a range of materials, making it a great choice if working with ceramics, metals or plastics. It can be used for filling gaps or cracks or for creating a waterproof seal. However, it can be messy and expensive
There's various other types including resorcial resin, epoxy resin and theroplastic resin but the above lists some of the most popular glues available.
More information on gluing
For further information on gluing tips and application watch our Woodworking Wisdom demonstrations.
At Axminster Tools, we are committed to providing you with the best products for your woodworking projects. Whether you're a professional woodworker or a DIY enthusiast, our extensive range of glues and adhesive products will help you achieve the perfect result every time.
