Wood Bonding Adhesives

Wood adhesives are used for a variety of bonding applications in woodworking from furniture and cabinet assembly to fine carpentry to flooring and more. There are several types of adhesives, and they are suited to different types of applications. Here we’ll look at some common wood adhesives, their characteristics, uses, and tips for use.

Types of Wood Adhesives

The most common types of wood adhesives include:

Polyvinyl Acetate Glue

Polyvinyl acetate (PVA) is the most widely used wood glue. It is readily available, inexpensive, safe, and easy to clean up. This common white or yellow, water-based glue forms a strong and hard bond with high shear strength. Cured PVA glue does not deteriorate or yellow over time.

Polyurethane Glue

Polyurethane glue is made with synthetic plastic resin that is waterproof. Curing is activated by moisture, so it can be used in high-humidity or wet settings and is also referred to as marine adhesive. Unlike water-based glues, polyurethane glue is resin-based and adheres to oily wood, especially applications on the end grain. This type of glue is also used to adhere other materials to wood, such as ceramic, glass, metal, or stone.

Cyanoacrylate Glue

Cyanoacrylate, also called CA glue or super glue, is an acrylic resin that forms a clear, strong bond rapidly. This quick-drying glue can also be used as a thin coating on small wooden items.

Epoxy

Epoxy is a two-part product that consists of a resin and a hardener. They are stored separately and mixed at the time of application. When cured, epoxies are durable and waterproof sealants that can also be used to fill gaps or cracks. Color powders can also be mixed with epoxies to match wood or other surfaces.

Hide Glue

This glue is made with collagen from animal skins and connective tissue. It is one of the oldest types of wood adhesive, traditionally used to make hunting bows, musical instruments, furniture, and other wooden components, and it is still in use today. Hide glue is available premixed or as granules, flakes, or sheets that must be mixed with water. The glue must be warmed before use to keep it from cooling too quickly.

Tips for Strong Wood Bonds

To get the most from your wood adhesive, take the following steps:

• Surface Preparation. Most adhesives perform best when bonding surfaces are smooth, clean, and dry. This prevents dust or moisture from interfering with the bond.
• Even Application. Evenly distribute the glue on the bonding area for a secure and uniform bond. Tools like rollers or brushes prevent applying too much or too little. Product directions will indicate if glue should be applied to just one or both surfaces to be joined.
• Clamping. Clamping keeps the bonding surfaces together while the glue dries and cures. Apply sufficient pressure to hold pieces securely without squeezing any glue out of the joint.
• Remove Excess Glue. For the best appearance and bond integrity, wipe away excess glue with a damp sponge or cloth before it dries.
• Observe Open, Drying, and Curing Times. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended drying and curing times before removing clamps or moving the glued item. This ensures the glue has enough time to bond and minimizes the risk of damage.
• Consider Weather. Some glues work poorly or fail in cold temperatures, wet conditions, or adverse weather. Be sure the adhesive you choose is suitable for the environment it will be used in.

Common Applications of Wood Adhesives

There are many potential uses for wood adhesives, such as:

• Woodworking. Adhesives are often used for smooth joints and to secure components in the assembly of doors, frames, furniture, and cabinets.
• Construction. Wood glues can be used to bond some components in panels, beams, and trusses.
• Engineered Wood Products. Some types of particleboard, plywood, medium-density fiberboard (MDF), and other engineered wood products incorporate wood adhesives during manufacturing.
• Flooring. Wooden flooring panels can be connected to surrounding panels or subflooring with wood glue instead of nails.
• Veneering and Laminating. Wooden veneer and decorative items made from thin layers of wood can be constructed and laminated with adhesives.
• Joinery and Carpentry. Adhesives are used to help secure biscuit and slot joints, dowels, and mortise and tenon joints in furniture and cabinet making.
• Crafts and Hobbies. Hobby materials like balsa, pine, birch, bamboo, and others are easy to bond with wood adhesives for models, artwork, and DIY projects.
• Musical Instruments. Musical instruments including violins, guitars, and pianos contain many wooden components that can be secured with glue.
• Packaging. Wood glue adds strength to wooden crates, pallets, and boxes for storage and shipping.
• Repair and Restoration. Wood glue is an easy tool for minor repairs in wooden items or to replace damaged trim. Epoxies can also be used to fill cracks and gaps.

Wood Bonding Adhesives from Toagosei America Inc.

Toagosei America Inc. manufactures and supplies industrial cyanoacrylate adhesives, accelerators, and primers for construction, maintenance, industrial assembly, and other uses, including wood bonding. We also provide custom formulations, lab services and testing, industrial adhesive consultation, and prototype testing.

Contact us today or request more information to see what our products can do for you.