Selecting the best wood glue for joinery depends on application, materials, and the environmental conditions. Different types of wood glue offer varying levels of strength, water resistance, and flexibility, making different types of adhesives suited for specific applications.
This guide will showcase common types of glue for wood and where each will best perform.
PVA glue (polyvinyl acetate)
PVA glue is the most widely used adhesive in the woodworking industry for both professionals and DIY. It’s great for joinery, the bonding of both soft and hard woods, and for indoor timber applications.
PVA is often recognized as the best wood glue for general purpose work, although is not ideal for high moisture areas or structural outdoor conditions.
Key features include:
- Easy to clean
- Dries clear
- Good working strength
- Available in both interior and exterior products
Polyurethane glue
A polyurethane based glue will expand as it cures, which fills small gaps and creates a high strength bond. Polyurethane adhesives are great for outdoor projects, structural timber joints, and the bonding of different materials. This glue needs moisture to activate and tends to be messier than other types of wood glue.
Key features of polyurethane include:
- Weather resistant and waterproof
- Expands while curing
- Will bond timber to other non-porous materials such as plastics and metals
Super glue (cyanoacrylate)
Super glue is an adhesive used for fast bonding applications. It’s great for small repair jobs, filling small holes and cracks in timber, and for precision and finishing touches. Super glue is not suitable for load bearing or large joints due to its brittleness.
Key features of super glue include:
- Extremely fast drying
- A very high initial strength
- Available in different viscosity states
Epoxy resin
An epoxy glue consists of resin and hardener, creating a very strong adhesive. It is best used for structural bonding, damage repairs, and outdoor applications, as well as marine projects. Epoxy resin has a longer curing time, but it’s highly versatile in comparison to other wood glues.
Key features of epoxy resin include:
- Resistance to chemicals and moisture
- Capabilities of repair and gap filling
- Strength for structural bonding
Hide glue
Hide glue is a traditional adhesive that is commonly used in restoration and fine woodworking. It’s regularly used for antique restorations, musical instruments, and traditional joinery projects. Hide glue is reversible through heat when required.
Key features include:
- Strong initial tack
- Available in liquid and granular form
- Reversible with heat and moisture
Contact adhesive
A contact adhesive is a glue applied to two surfaces before bonding. It is commonly used for laminating material, veneer sheet contact, and for large surface applications. Contact adhesives need to be applied with precision, as there is no adjustment available post initial contact resulting from immediate adhesion.
Key features of a contact adhesive include:
- Instantaneous bonding on contact
- No clamping required
- A flexible adhesive
Choosing the best type of wood glue
Selecting the best type of wood glue is dependent on the project. Understanding an adhesive’s chemical composition and working properties is imperative for selecting an appropriate wood glue.
When using the right wood glue, you will have the confidence that comes with strong joints, durability, and improved project outcomes.
