What types of wood adhesives are there?

Which brand of wood glue is best to choose?

To know how to buy waterproof wood glue, you should carefully study the composition information. Today on the construction market there is a large selection of excellent adhesive compositions that provide high performance parameters for joints. After drying, a moisture-resistant wood adhesive often turns out to be more reliable than the base coating. When choosing a product, you need to have information about the product’s ability to glue wood of various species and change its color. The most famous brands:

• Moment . The Russian manufacturer produces glue in the form of an aqueous dispersion. It firmly connects wood species, as well as various building materials. Experts note the availability of glue, its reliability, and quick drying.
• Kiilto . Finnish company producing paint and varnish products in various directions. Adhesive compositions are distinguished by the absence of toxic components.
• Titebond . The product is produced by a well-known brand from the USA. Wood furniture glue holds the structure together perfectly. The manufacturer regularly works to improve technology, so the range is constantly increasing.
• Kleiberit . The brand from Germany offers various adhesive compositions for furniture, which are designed for different types of coatings. All products are of high quality.
• UHU . A German brand that is a leading developer of adhesives in terms of quality parameters and assortment. The company strives to take a leadership position in environmental protection issues.
• Akfix . A young but well-known brand from Turkey. Focused on the production of environmentally friendly paint and varnish products and technologies in order to find solutions that best meet the needs of consumers.
• Tex . Well-known developer of paint and varnish products. Adhesive compositions are used in industry and in everyday life. Suitable for plywood, cardboard, paper, they are resistant to moisture and serve as an additive.
• Lakra . One of the largest domestic developers of decorative paint and varnish products. Adhesive compositions from Lakra are manufactured in accordance with international standards of quality, safety, and environmental friendliness.

Each manufacturer is considered a well-known representative on the market and produces good quality products. Considering that the companies in question have positive criticism, the consumer will have no problem finding the best wood adhesives.

What types are there?

Wood adhesive compositions based on polyurethane, organic resins and PVA have gained great popularity and love among consumers.

Kinds

Products for gluing wood have different compositions and areas of application. Most materials are positioned as universal products, for which fastening wooden elements is only one of the areas of use. Other products are produced as single-purpose formulations, so they are not intended for contact with other types of materials.

There are several different compositions.

• PVA glue is sometimes called a dispersed adhesive.

The main characteristics of such products are:

1. lack of toxicity, due to which the composition can be used indoors without additional safety measures;
2. quick adhesion to the surface;
3. static load of 60 kg/cm2;
4. unlimited service life of the product;
5. Can be used on any surface.

The disadvantage of this glue is the method of diluting it, which is based on adding water, which negatively affects the reliability of fixation in rooms with high humidity levels. To ensure high-quality gluing of elements, it is recommended to add wood dust to this glue.

• Epoxy adhesive is a two-component composition, the use of which requires mixing substances in a given ratio. The product provides strong fixation and is universal in terms of application. Epoxy compounds are waterproof, resistant to aggressive substances and fuels and lubricants. The time for complete hardening depends on the thickness of the applied layer. The disadvantages of the material include the need to protect the skin and overconsumption, since it is impossible to calculate exactly how much ready-made solution will be needed to treat the surface.

• BF is a type of glue that includes several variants of the product. For wood materials, series 2 and 4 are recommended. This composition has the feature of very fast hardening. On average, this requires 50-60 minutes, but provided that the humidity and temperature are within normal limits.

The compositions must be applied in two layers with short intervals. The fourth series of glue is frost-resistant products. The disadvantage of BF is the need for mandatory preliminary cleaning of the wooden surface with degreasing.

• Heat-resistant adhesive compositions produced in the form of rods. To work with such products you will need a special gun. The scope of application of the products mainly concerns fastening small parts or sealing defects in a wooden surface.
• Wood adhesives. To work, the products need to be prepared. Wood glue is based on organic protein, which is the main adhesive substance. It is necessary for joining various wood materials: hardboard, paper, cardboard, wooden products. The natural composition ensures safety of use.

The origin of the main component of carpentry compositions is different.

Products are classified based on the type of raw materials.

• Mezdrovy. The main component in such products is a substance that is formed during the processing of animal skin. The material can be produced in the form of flakes, tiles or powder.
• Bone. The raw materials for it are the bone remains of animals. The products have an average price. It is better to use a transparent composition instead of unrefined mixtures with impurities.

• Casein. Widely used in aircraft modeling and shipbuilding. It is neutral to dampness and forms a strong connection. To prepare the composition, you must strictly observe the proportions and time interval.
• Fishy. It is prepared from the remains of fins and scales. The composition is considered a professional product intended for gluing surfaces with varying degrees of hardness. The glue has a fairly high cost, so it is positioned as a furniture glue and is used for the repair or restoration of expensive furniture.
• Moisture-resistant solution. You can prepare it yourself using slaked lime and cottage cheese, which has recently curdled.

There is a certain technology for making wood glue. To do this, the dry mass is poured with water and left for 6-12 hours so that the composition completely absorbs moisture. Then the remaining water is drained, and the mixture is heated in a water bath until the substance is completely dissolved. The cooking process requires periodic stirring. It is important to control the process so that the mixture does not boil. The glue is applied strictly in the direction of the wood fibers, then the elements are pressed against each other and fixed. The main disadvantage of the product is the reduction in gluing efficiency in the case of wood moisture content exceeding 10%.

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• Syndeticone glue. It is prepared from wood glue with the addition of lime and powdered sugar. The product is distinguished by a high level of strength of the connection of elements. The glue is waterproof and resistant to chemicals. The disadvantage of the product is the rather long preparation process, since the mixture for the solution must be kept in water for 24 hours.
• Glue paste. It is prepared on the basis of carpentry composition, wood ash and chalk. The material performs well when priming and puttying wood.
• Polyurethane products. It is the most expensive among the above range. The material has a number of positive features. The area where the composition is applied perfectly withstands high dynamic loads.

This material is ideal for repairing furniture, such as chair legs that become loose over time. The composition is also highly resistant to various temperatures, moisture and solar radiation. It is better to glue wooden structures that are used in extreme conditions with this particular composition.

Rating of wood adhesives

Users often have a question about how to glue wood. When looking for a reliable adhesive for wood objects, the user must evaluate its ability to firmly join coatings of different types of wood. During selection, emphasis is placed on the following indicators:

• Purpose;
• Reliability of gluing;
• Speed ​​of setting, drying;
• Resistance to moisture, temperature, solar radiation;
• Price;
• Feedback from specialists;
• Customers' opinions;
• Comfort of use.

The question often arises as to which glue is best to use for wood. Each brand provides an impressive range, so finding a high-quality composition is difficult. In view of this, a review of the best wood adhesives has been compiled, which have been selected taking into account the opinions of experts, buyers, and tests.

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The best polyurethane adhesives for wood

If the adhesive composition requires increased reliability, long-term resistance to mechanical load, resistance to moisture and negative climatic conditions, then it is advisable to use a polyurethane composition. When comparing 7 products, it was determined which one is better. The list contains 3 of them.

Akfix PA370 D4

Akfix PA370 is a ready-to-use 1-component polyurethane product that can reliably connect wood-based objects to metal, concrete, and plastic in the shortest possible time. Effective for repair work on wooden boats due to its immunity to moisture and external factors. It must be remembered that when it hardens, the product will increase slightly in size, improving the quality of the joint.

Polyurethane wood glue has proven itself excellent in carpentry, in the manufacture of furniture frames, doors, and in joining multilayer elements in complex structures. To obtain the strongest possible connection, the ambient temperature cannot be less than +5 degrees, and the elements to be glued are slightly moistened. Undried fragments of the product can be easily removed using acetone. The maximum temperature values ​​at which the seam will not lose its qualities are in the range of -40+100 degrees.

Advantages

• Convenient use;
• Low viscosity;
• Reliable grip;
• Fast drying;
• Immunity to moisture;
• Heat resistance.

Flaws

• Fire hazard.

Based on reviews, the tool will allow you to create reliable connections. Users note that the temperature range makes it possible to glue any material that is of wooden origin.

Titebond Polyurethane Wood Glue 2300

The best wood adhesive for polyurethane wood, which is a breakthrough in the field of adhesive technology. The composition in question from a US brand occupies one of the leading positions in this segment. The developer was able to maintain a balance between the speed of hardening (45 minutes) and the time of preservation of its qualities (20 minutes).

The product firmly glues all materials of wood origin, from ordinary wood to objects made from wood shavings. The scope of use is not limited to this: metal, plastic, stone and other materials are firmly glued together. It is moisture resistant, however, in conditions of excessive humidity or under water, the resulting units cannot be left. The glue is not afraid of cold, but before use it must be thoroughly warmed up to +12 degrees.

Advantages

• Fast setting;
• Versatility of use;
• High connection strength;
• Resistance to moisture;
• Environmental friendliness of the material.

Flaws

• Applicable only at +10 degrees.

Users note that the product is suitable for damp rooms, is specific, and does not dissolve in water. Not for use on products that come into contact with food. It foams well, which means it will fill the space between parts. Firmly glues wood to brick.

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PUR-adhesive Kleiberit 501.0, D4

One of the best universal adhesive compositions is considered to be products from the German brand Kleiberit 501.0. The basis of the product is polyurethane, which gives the material resistance to moisture and resistance to temperature changes. The 1-component composition is easy to use; it can be used to connect 2 wooden elements, as well as other combinations, for example, polyvinyl chloride, mini-slabs, ceramics, concrete, etc.

Operation of the formed units is possible indoors and outdoors, in rain or scorching heat. Excellent gluing quality is confirmed by international standards. The connection hardens completely after 24 hours.

Advantages

• Ease of operation;
• Short hardening time;
• Elasticity;
• Versatility of use;
• Resistance to aggressive environments;
• Resistant to temperature changes.

Flaws

• Long drying;
• Pungent aroma.

Reviews from domestic buyers mainly note positive characteristics. This composition is easy to use, will not drip, and the seam will be reliable. However, it is difficult to wash your hands after work; it is necessary to ventilate the room during the gluing process.

Polyurethane based adhesives

Akfix PA370 D4

The product is completely ready for use; it is a one-component adhesive composition based on polyurethane. Using this composition, you can glue materials of other origins to wood - metal, concrete, foam plastic, various types of plastics. This composition is excellent for carrying out repair work on yachts, wooden boats, and motorboats. The glue feels great in aqueous and even aggressive environments. When working with the material, it is necessary to take into account that it increases slightly in volume when dried. With the help of this distinctive feature, the quality of the connection of porous materials becomes higher.

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The composition has proven itself in the manufacture of various carpentry products - furniture, doors, windows and so on. To make the connection of the elements as strong as possible, the ambient temperature must be at least +5 degrees; the elements to be joined must be slightly moistened before applying the glue. Remove the glue using a cloth soaked in acetone. The composition retains its performance qualities in the temperature range from -40 to +100 degrees.

Advantages:

• Feels good in any conditions;
• Significant temperature range;
• Used in both domestic and industrial environments.

Flaws:

• Not everyone takes into account the fact that when drying, the glue expands somewhat.

Akfix PA370 D4

SOUDAL 66A

Characterized by an increased level of adhesion. This polyurethane adhesive can withstand even very harsh operating conditions. With its help, it is possible to glue any wooden elements, including those that are not completely dried. With its help, wood can be glued to any materials. During drying and hardening, the glue begins to foam, due to which the unevenness and cracks are completely filled. The seam ultimately turns out to be quite durable, it retains its basic performance qualities for a long time, and can withstand temperatures from -30 to +110 degrees.

The high degree of adhesion allows the use of this glue in the most difficult and complex carpentry and carpentry work. The adhesive is intended for both interior and exterior use.

Advantages:

• Very high level of strength;
• Withstands both high and low temperatures, which allows it to be used for outdoor work;
• Resists moisture well.

Flaws:

• Expands quite a lot;
• Very expensive compared to other types of adhesives.

SOUDAL 66A

Kleiberit 501.0

First place in this part of our ranking of the best wood adhesives was taken by well-known German products. The product is manufactured on the basis of a polyurethane composition, due to which the product acquires such important characteristics as heat resistance and moisture resistance. The glue is quite easy to use, and it has universal properties. A variety of combinations of materials are possible - ceramic products, concrete, polyvinyl chloride products, mineral and mineral wool boards. It is allowed to use glued units not only indoors, but also outside – the glue can withstand heavy rain, scorching sun, snowfall and frost.

The glue fully complies with the most stringent international standards. The consistency is quite thick, but the composition is applied easily and does not slip. The glue dries completely over the next 24 hours.

Advantages:

• Increased connection strength;
• Optimal consistency;
• Long service life;
• Withstands any negative atmospheric conditions.

Flaws:

• It is very problematic to wash your hands from glue;
• It is necessary to work exclusively in rooms with a good ventilation system.

Kleiberit 501.0

The best resin wood glues

The composition of various resins has many useful qualities. It will not change the shade of the wood being processed, has excellent adhesion, high strength and electrical insulating qualities. However, when working with adhesive composition, proper room ventilation and the use of personal protective equipment are necessary. When comparing 7 products, it was determined which one is better. The list contains 3 of them.

Moment Joiner

Composition based on epoxy resin, an excellent product from domestic manufacturers. Using the composition, it is possible to combine various types of wood, plywood, MDF, fiberboard, chipboard, plastic with paper inclusions. The surfaces to be glued need to be pressed for a quarter of an hour using a clamp or vice. The complete drying time for the elements before use will be 1 day. The product does not change the shade of the processed material, which will increase the scope of its use. The product can be used at positive temperatures from +5 to +30 degrees.

Experts and amateur craftsmen note the following characteristics of Moment Joiner: short drying period, reliability, accessibility, transparency after hardening. The disadvantages include sensitivity to moisture and low temperatures.

Advantages

• Transparency after drying;
• Convenient use;
• Quick drying;
• High initial grip.

Flaws

• Poor resistance to moisture.

It is made on the basis of epoxy resin, therefore it is not toxic to the user. It is economical in use and is effective for all types of wood.

Titebond joinery moisture resistant

1-component adhesive for gluing wood materials. It has a high class of water resistance and can be effectively used for outdoor work: assembling garden furniture, birdhouses, mailboxes. The composition is characterized by a strong initial setting, rapid hardening, creates a reliable seam, and is easy to process. The downside will be susceptibility to moisture and negative temperature parameters.

Advantages

• Connection reliability;
• Versatility of use;
• Fast setting;
• Holding period in clamps;
• Cutting tools do not deteriorate when processing the joint.

Flaws

• Weak water resistance;
• Big expense.

Users note strong adhesion of the adhesive composition in a short period. The disadvantage is that the funds are spent quickly.

Uhu Plus Endfest 300

Two-component universal wood adhesive has good gluing properties. It is made of epoxy resin, which will allow materials of different origins to be glued to the wooden object being processed. The exception will be glass items. The composition hardens within 1.5 hours, the joints are fully ready for use within 12-24 hours. The seam will become impact-resistant, wear-resistant and moisture-resistant.

To make a working solution, you need to mix 2 ingredients, following the developer's instructions. Then the components are thoroughly mixed until a homogeneous consistency is formed. The finished composition is applied with a brush or spatula. Among the advantages of glue from a German brand, the emphasis is on high strength, resistance to mechanical influences, and moisture. It is characterized by reliable initial setting and high adhesion.

Advantages

• Reliability;
• Immunity to moisture;
• Durable grip;
• Connection of any objects with wood;
• Does not conduct current.

Flaws

• Proportions must be observed;
• You need to prepare a working solution.

Based on reviews, the adhesive composition has increased strength, immunity to mechanical influences and moisture.

The safety of the mixture, which is used both for home and industrial purposes, is noted.

Briefly about the different types of wood adhesives

Type of glue Pros Cons

Each type of glue has its own pros and cons, which you should know about when choosing a specific composition.

Polyurethane

Characterized by versatility in use. The hardening process occurs due to a chemical reaction, which consists of contact of the adhesive composition with a hardener or moisture. During the process, carbon dioxide is released, which promotes foaming of the mass and the formation of a film. The composition also uses resins, stabilizers, viscosity regulators and crystallization accelerators.

They have a high level of adhesion to both porous and smooth substrates. Suitable for working with artificial and natural surfaces (cardboard, stone, metal, fabric, wood, ceramics, gravel, rubber, polystyrene, glass and others).

The glue is resistant to low and high temperature changes (operation is possible in the temperature range from -40 to +120 degrees), and is not affected by aggressive substances such as oils, acids, and gasoline. The connection is durable, tight and durable.

Mixtures are divided into one-component and two-component. One-component ones in the form of a ready-made mixture are universal, suitable for gluing different materials. Polymerization occurs due to moisture or water. Further chemical reaction helps to increase the volume of the glue.

Working with a two-component product involves combining two components contained in the package. A prerequisite is 100% compliance with the instructions. This type of mixture is also suitable for gluing different surfaces.

Liquid polyurethane glue

Application area . Creates a strong connection not only when gluing wood to wood, but also when working with materials such as metal, ceramics, plastic, etc. It is indispensable when creating projects from oily wood.

Working properties . Polyurethane adhesive consists almost entirely of solid synthetic resins. It has high strength, heat and water resistance. It hardens faster in a humid environment, so it is recommended to lightly wet the surfaces to be joined beforehand. After opening the bottle, carefully monitor the expiration date. You can read more about polyurethane glue in this article.

Compatible with finishing compounds . For gluing wood, special tinted PU adhesives are used, which form a light brown seam that is invisible on the texture of the product.

Open time : 20 minutes.

3

Polyurethane hot melt adhesive

Application area . Creating connections without fixing with a clamp; gluing loosely fitting elements with minor gaps; working with oily wood.

Working properties . Polyurethane hot melt adhesive has very high adhesion to difficult-to-glue materials. The elements are fastened in 30-60 seconds, without the need to create large clamping forces and use clamps. But drying takes much longer: the gluing cannot be subjected to stress for the next 24 hours.

Compatible with finishing compounds . When using nitro varnish as a finishing material, blisters may form at the points of contact between materials.

Open time : 30-60 sec.

4

Based on organic resins

The mixtures are highly resistant to moisture, aggressive substances and petroleum products. Versatility allows you to glue different types of surfaces, forming a strong and elastic seam. The most popular product is epoxy resin adhesives.

Epoxy adhesive

Application area . Gluing wood to wood, as well as dissimilar materials; creating strong and waterproof connections; filling gaps without loss of strength characteristics.

Working properties . The adhesive consists of two components: resin and hardener. When mixed, they form a durable, water-resistant composition that does not shrink. By varying the ratio of the two components, you can adjust the working properties of the glue. When working with the material, large pressing forces are not required.

Compatible with finishing compounds . It shows up under the stain, but is perfectly hidden under a layer of film coatings.

Open holding time : from one minute to an hour depending on the percentage of components.

5

Based on PVA

The basis is a water emulsion of polyvinyl acetate. Often, adhesive mixtures are added to the compositions to improve strength, stabilizers for a longer shelf life, and plasticizers for better elasticity. Absorption into wood pores and evaporation of water ensure that the material dries quickly.

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The glue is elastic and homogeneous and becomes transparent when dry. Depending on the temperature and thickness of the layer, drying time is about 24 hours. The advantage is the absolute absence of toxicity. Therefore, PVA can be used both indoors and for outdoor work. The disadvantage of the product is the gradual decrease in the reliability of gluing in places with excess moisture.

Like polyurethane adhesives, PVA is divided into one-component and two-component. To bond materials with a two-component adhesive, you must mix the base and hardener. To obtain a high-quality composition, be sure to strictly follow the instructions. It is important that the preparation of the composition should take place immediately before gluing. The one-component adhesive is immediately ready for use.

One- and two-component PVA adhesives

Application area . One-part polyvinyl acetate (PVA) resin adhesives are a versatile option for a variety of indoor wood projects. Due to their high moisture resistance, two-component compositions (with the additional inclusion of a hardener) are considered the best option for gluing wooden products used outdoors (garden furniture, elements of external doors, window structures).

Working properties . If used rarely, the composition may separate and form sediment. Therefore, it is recommended to shake or stir thoroughly before use. The glue is extremely easy to use.

Compatible with finishing compounds . Traces of dried glue appear under the stain and varnish layer.

Open time : 3-5 min.

2

Which wood glue is best to buy?

To choose the strongest glue for wood, you need to consider its purpose and type. There are specialized products that are used directly for items of wood origin, and there are universal ones. Despite the variety, experts choose narrow-profile compounds that are suitable directly for wood and its derivatives. However, the characteristics of the wood in a particular situation also need to be taken into account when purchasing. Among the products reviewed, experts focus on the following nominees:

• Moment Super PVA D3 is moisture resistant – suitable for gluing wood in a humid environment;
• PUR adhesive Kleiberit 501.0, D4 – a universal product with fast setting;
• UHU Plus Endfest 300 is the most reliable product made from epoxy resin;
• Titebond carpentry is moisture resistant – suitable for carpentry work.

The rating includes the best adhesives for wood-based materials. It is impossible to answer the question which one is better. The choice of wood glue should also be based on the recommendations of specialists, builders, and positive and negative user opinions.