When it comes to woodworking, the quality of your projects often hinges on one crucial factor: the adhesive used to bond the pieces together.
Whether you’re crafting furniture, building cabinets, or working on intricate woodwork, having the best wood glue at your disposal can make all the difference. A strong and reliable wood glue not only ensures the longevity of your creations but also simplifies your crafting process.
But with a plethora of wood glue options available on the market, how do you choose the right one for your specific needs? We have compiled the top wood glue on the market today.
Gorilla Wood Glue
Star Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Features:
- One of the easiest to use water-based wood glue.
- Needs only a few minutes of clamp time.
- Will work with all types of wood.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 9 x 4.5 x 1.5 inches, 8 ounces
- Packaging: plastic bottle
- Material Used: water-based adhesive
- Curing Time: 24 hours
- Special Features: short clamp time, will work with all types of wood, HPVA Type ii water-resistance
Gorilla Glue is the most popular wood glue because of its durability and ease of use. It is a water-based adhesive that has very strong holding power. It is the best choice among woodworkers for hobby projects, general carpentry, and indoor or outdoor construction use.
Gorilla Glue works with all types of wood including hardwood and softwood. You can also use this in natural wood composite materials. This glue will only need 20 to 30 minutes clamp time to glue two wooden pieces together but for the best results, wait 24 hours as this is its full curing time.
Pros
- Made using the original Gorilla Glue formula.
- Can be used on all types of wood and even wood composites.
- With short clamp time.
- Water-resistant formula, can be used indoors or outdoors
Cons
- Will take 24 hours to cure completely.
- Can be very hard to remove when spilled.
Elmer’s E7310 Carpenter’s Wood Glue
Star Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Features
- Non-toxic kind of wood glue, with no harmful fumes.
- Will resist extreme temperatures, mold, and mildew.
- Extra-strength adhesive for all types of wood.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 2.54 x 4.29 x 10.04 inches, 1.35 pounds
- Packaging: plastic bottle
- Material Used: non-toxic material
- Special Features: Can be used for exterior and interior projects, waterproof, easy to clean, tan color
Elmer’s is another very popular name when it comes to wood adhesive. The Elmer’s Carpenter’s Wood Glue can bond two wooden pieces and yet, will become stronger than natural wood. It is very resistant to mold, mildew, and extreme heat making it great for indoor or outdoor projects.
This Elmer’s Carpenter’s Wood Glue has a natural wood color (tan) and thus, you won’t have to worry about stains, spills, and drips. It is available in 16-ounce plastic bottles so you’ll have more than enough wood glue to use for your projects.
This carpenter’s wood glue is easy to clean up and is sandable and paintable. You can use this on all types of projects even on delicate woodworking tasks.
Pros
- This glue is sandable, you can paint over the joined surfaces as well.
- Will resist temperature extremes.
- Will resist mold and mildew build-up.
- Will never release any toxic fumes.
- Is very easy to clean.
Cons
- Glue may harden from the spout of the bottle.
Titebond H6838 Wood Glue
Star Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Features
- Produces a stronger bond, stronger than wood.
- Resistant to extreme heat but sands easily.
- Can be used as a wood glue for exterior and interior surfaces.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 2.99 x 2.99 x 8.98 inches, 1.1 pounds
- Packaging: plastic bottle
- Material Used: waterproof material
- Curing Time: 30-minute clamp time
- Special Features: produces a strong bond, resistance to heat, 30-minute clamp time, non-toxic
The Titebond Ultimate Wood Glue is one of the highly-rated wood glues by woodworking experts and professionals. This is very strong, creates a very durable bond which is stronger compared to natural wood. This wood glue is resistant to heat and thus, you can use this even for outdoor use.
Titebond glued surfaces are sandable and thus, you can also paint over the glued area. It is easy to clean with just plain water while it’s still wet but it’s impossible to do so when completely dry. You’ll find this easy to use as the pieces stick very well even after you applied the glue. Clamp time is just 30 minutes.
All Titebond wood glue products offer great strength but are non-toxic and therefore, safe to use. This is also available in large 473 ml bottles therefore you’ll have enough wood glue for many more projects in the future.
Pros
- Available in large bottles.
- Offers a very strong bond.
- With great heat resistance, easy to sand and paint over.
- Easy to clean while the glue is still wet.
- Short clamp time, very durable initial tack.
- With a non-toxic formula.
Cons
- Will discolor wood so wipe this off before it completely dries.
Franklin Polyurethane Glue
Star Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Features
- Fully waterproof glue.
- Will stick to everything.
- There’s no need to mix this wood glue.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 2 x 2 x 7.75 inches, 9.4 ounces
- Packaging: plastic bottle
- Material Used: liquid polyurethane
- Special Features: waterproof, water-resistant, fast curing, and clamp time
The Titebond polyurethane wood glue is completely waterproof; it has passed strict water-resistant testing and thus, can be used indoors or outdoors. This wood glue can also be used on other types of materials. It will produce an epoxy-like bond minus the usual mixing. This polyurethane wood glue has a short clamping time and it cures fast. You don’t need to wait all day to use the glued part.
Pros
- This glue is available in larger bottles/containers.
- This is completely waterproof.
- You can use this indoors or outdoors.
- With a short clamping and curing time.
- With a natural wood color.
Cons
- The bottle develops a thick glue crust at the tip.
- Very hard to remove from clothing and skin.
Starbond Super Fast Thin Glue
Star Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Features:
- Lab-tested wood glue to provide the best performance.
- Comes with applicator caps, stopper, and micro-tips for easy use.
- Ideal for all types of woodworking projects or any project involving wood.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 10.08 x 7.2 x 7.2 inches, 7 ounces
- Packaging: plastic bottle
- Material Used: ethyl cyanoacrylate
- Special Features: complete accessories, penetrates minute fractures, good viscosity, great penetrating abilities, longer shelf life
The STARBOND EM-02 is a super-fast, CA glue that works hard to stick wooden pieces together. It can also be used on different surfaces including plastic, metal, and ceramics. This is tested for the best performance as it works using capillary action.
It comes with complete accessories including applicator caps, stoppers, and micro-tips so you can precisely apply glue to any surface as well as cracks and holes. This adhesive is known as the wicking-type and thus, it is perfect for all kinds of hobbies and projects. This is a thin adhesive with a thickness similar to water.
You can keep the STARBOND glue longer as it can last cold and warm temperatures. It comes with a 100% replacement or refund warranty if it does not last its manufacturer’s shelf life warranty.
Pros
- Made from premium CA adhesive.
- This is a water-thin glue, so it works using capillary action.
- It comes with complete supplies.
- With a very long shelf life.
Cons
- Leaves a hard film on any surface.
- Complaints that it’s too thin.
Weldbond Multi-Purpose Adhesive Glue
Star Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Features
- Produces a smooth finish.
- I Will work on wood, glass, brick, concrete, metal, and many more.
- Water-resistant and temperature resistant.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 8.14 x 3.08 x 2.05 inches
- Packaging: plastic bottle
- Material Used: made from a highly-concentrated, non-toxic adhesive material
- Curing Time: 24 hours
- Special Features: works with all types of wood, light clamping, sets in just 20 minutes
The Weldbond 8-50420 is a versatile adhesive wood glue that creates a smooth finish. It is a water-resistant glue that comes in a large 14-ounce bottle that’s easy to grip. This glue is white but dries into a clear film that’s very durable. You can use this on different surfaces, not just wood. You can stick glass, foam, stone, ceramics, and many more.
Pros
- Can be used on different surfaces.
- Will bond on any surface and dries clear.
- This will form a permanent but flexible bond.
Cons
- Complaints that it’s not as heavy-duty as other glues.
- Complaints that it’s too thick.
Fast Dry Wood Glue by Krazy Glue
Star Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Features
- Dries fast, no need to wait overnight for the glue to dry.
- Will bond with all types of wood.
- No need to use bulky project clamps.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 2.81 x 1.19 x 7.13 inches. 1.06 ounces
- Packaging: plastic bottle
- Material Used: special quick-dry formula
- Curing Time: fast drying and curing
- Special Features: sandable, washable, can be used in all kinds of projects, with a special formula.
Krazy Glue is a wood glue that dries fast and will set in just a few minutes. No need to wait overnight or 24 hours to cure a wooden piece. It can be used on different types of wood without the need to use clamps. You can use this clear glue on all kinds of projects especially wood crafts.
Pros
- Clear glue that bond instantly.
- This won’t take 24 hours to cure.
- You don’t need to use clamps.
- Can be used on different woods.
Cons
- Available only in small bottles.
- Hard to remove on clothes and surfaces.
Aleene’s Wood Glue
Star Rating: 4.6 out of 5
Features
- With a non-toxic, safe formula.
- Fast drying and curing time.
- With a sandable, stainable formula
Specifications
- Dimensions: 1.69 x 1.69 x 5.81 inches
- Packaging: bottle
- Material Used: safe and lasting formula
- Curing Time: 24 hours
- Special Features: safe and non-toxic, sandable and stainable
Aleene’s wood glue is available in beige color and thus, can be used over light-colored woods. It is sandable and stainable which is perfect for wooden furniture. It has a safe and non-toxic formula and thus, can be used indoors or outdoors. This is available in 4-ounce bottles which is enough for many wooden projects to come.
Pros
- Available in beige color.
- You can sand and stain the area.
- Easy to use and clean.
Cons
- Takes a day to cure.
Wood Glue Buying Guide
Can’t decide which wood glue is the best for your type of project? Consider the following factors when shopping.
Some very important questions to ask
Not all wood glue is the same. Some glues are best for wood furniture repair while some work best for small fixes like cracks and gaps. If you’re unsure which type of wood will work best for your project or repair, ask yourself the following questions:
- Are you planning to connect two surfaces or are you filling a crack or gap?
- Are you fixing something permanently or temporarily?
- Are you bonding wooden surfaces indoors or outdoors?
These questions will help narrow down your choices. You’re more likely to find the exact kind of wood glue to meet your needs.
PVA glue for a permanent bond
There are five varieties of wood glue. Almost all wood glues are made from synthetic polymers which are very strong, even stronger than the wood being bonded! These glues vary in durability, toxicity, flexibility, and ability to repel water.
PVA or polyvinyl acetate is a rubber-like synthetic polymer that can produce a very flexible but permanent bond. It’s non-toxic but is dangerous when ingested. It can work with different kinds of projects especially when you’re sticking wood to wood.
PVA glue in white color works best indoors while yellow PVA or carpenter’s glue is for outdoor use. The problem with PVA glue is that it leaves a residue that affects the wood’s finish. It won’t accept wood stains usually applying over the glue will create a patchy appearance. This is why any excess must be wiped with a cotton tip applicator before it completely dries.
Use a clamp to press the two wooden pieces. You can also add pressure for only a few minutes using your hand. Open windows and doors to improve workspace circulation. PVA glue is permanent and thus, you cannot move the parts to make repairs.
Polyurethane glue for lasting bonds
You can use polyurethane wood glue for tight and lasting bonds. This chemical is also one of the ingredients in wood glues and is best for joining end-to-end pieces. Polyurethane needs moisture found in the air to set therefore it bonds well during humid conditions.
Polyurethane is a toxic material and thus, you must open your ventilation systems like a window or door. Wear your face mask, goggles, and face shield to prevent dangerous fumes. And if there is excess glue, use a clean cloth dipped in mineral spirits to remove.
CA for fast-drying resin – AKA super glue
CA or cyanoacrylate is a fast-drying resin which is another term for superglue. A very tight and hard bond is created after curing CA glue; this is helpful for people who need a temporary fix.
You can use CA glue on smaller and shorter pieces of wood, as reinforcement, and on the backs of furniture. CA won’t bond with dry wood but you need to damp the wood surface first. Bonding takes place at room temperatures almost instantly therefore, you should be careful when using this glue.
Always wear a mask and gloves when using CA glue as it can stick to your skin and clothes. If you accidentally touch CA glue, remove this with acetone. You can also use acetone to remove excess glue but use acetone minimally as this can damage the wood surface you’re working on. When storing CA glue, you can only keep unopened glue for a year and opened glue for a month.
Hide glue for all-around wood furniture fixes
Hide glue got its name from its origin. It comes from boiled animal collagen and is available in two forms: in solid crystal form and liquid form (this is room temperature hide glue). Hot hide glue will cure when cooled after use. Liquid hide glue makes use of urea crystal additives so that it will remain in liquid form.
Hide glue is used for making furniture repairs. Once this glue dries, it will provide a flexible yet lasting result. Most antique repair experts use hide glue as it can preserve the lovely appearance of antique furniture.
When hide glue is in liquid form, it will give you enough time to set the pieces of wood perfectly as it dries. But when the glue has fully set, the bond is tight and will last a long time. Hide glue is also used in making guitar and other string instruments. This glue is safe to use as it’s all-natural plus, it won’t harm the surface or finish.
Epoxy for cracks and gaps on wood
Epoxy will dry and thicken to make a putty-like material. When using epoxy, you’ll be working with two formulas: a resin and hardener. You will mix the two formulas and apply the resulting glue at the correct time to get the best results. After the epoxy has been cured, it becomes very durable and waterproof. This is why epoxy is used in joining and fixing boats and other water vessels.
To apply epoxy glue, the two surfaces must be very clean and dry. Wipe the wood with a cleaner to remove dust, oil, wax, and residue. Buff and then sand the two areas before joining them. It’s also a good idea to apply a clamp to join the two pieces together.
Always wear protective materials like glo9ves and goggles as these formulas are irritants and can cause burns and rashes when it’s accidentally applied on the skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following are the most frequently asked questions and answers when buying or using wood glues.
What is the strongest wood glue?
The strongest type of glue is polyurethane. This glue is very versatile, can be used on wood and other types of material including metal, glass, concrete, and foam.
How do you glue two pieces of wood together?
Make sure that the surfaces you will work on are clean, well-sanded, and free from dust and oils. Apply enough glue on each side and use a clamp to prevent even the smallest movements. Let the glue cure completely before removing the clamp.
How do you glue two pieces of wood without slipping?
Clamp the glued pieces together to prevent slipping. A standard clamp will do. You can also hold the two pieces together but it’s best to use a clamp until the glue cures.
How to prevent wood glue from covering wood clamps?
Using steel or pipe clamps while gluing two wooden pieces together will cause the glue to come in contact with the clamps especially when you have applied too much glue. To prevent this from happening, place wax paper over the clamps. Wax paper will line the clamping surface and keep it clean.
How much wood glue do you need?
It’s not easy to say how much wood glue should you use. Too little can lead to a starved joint which will only make the joined parts weak while too much glue can make it harder to join the two pieces together.
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