Today, the market is rich in compositions for gluing wood. Before buying wood glue, you need to know the specifics of its use and the features of the composition. Before purchasing, you should have information about:
- full drying time;
- bonding density;
- moisture resistance;
- adhesion to other materials;
- degree of toxicity;
- ability to withstand dynamic loads;
- bonding strength.
Polyvinyl Acetate (PVA) and Heat-Resistant Glue
Universal Construction Glue PVA
PVA glue is one of those types that quickly bond surfaces of various materials, taking approximately 20 minutes. The final hardening of wooden parts occurs after 24 hours. The hardening of such a composition occurs as moisture is absorbed and then evaporates from the surface. PVA glue does not contain harmful substances, so it is often used for repairing various wooden items in the home. Another positive quality is its ability to retain its properties well in a tightly sealed package for a long time.
However, it has a significant drawback – lack of moisture resistance. It is not recommended for bonding parts and surfaces that are constantly in contact with water. For these purposes, there is a thick yellow PVA that is easy to sand.
When it comes to choosing the best glue for bonding wood subjected to various thermal effects, the answer is: buy heat-resistant glue. These compositions:
- do not decompose even at very high temperatures;
- do not unglue surfaces;
- do not break the structure of the wood.
It is important to note that these compositions are sold in special rods. To use them, you need to purchase a special glue gun. This option is the best and very convenient if you need to glue small items. The glue can be applied in a very thin layer using the gun. A significant advantage of these compositions is that the hardening time is very short – just a few seconds.
Epoxy Glue
Epoxy Glue
Epoxy glue consists of two components: resin and hardener. Before use, they should be mixed in the required proportion. Epoxy glue is waterproof. It is good because it bonds the joined surfaces quite strongly.
Other advantages include:
- Versatility of application.
- Short drying time – about 1 day. This depends solely on the thickness of the layer.
- Resistance to some aggressive reagents and lubricants.
It also has certain disadvantages. When working with such a composition, do not forget to protect the skin surface, as the composition has an irritating effect.
Another disadvantage is the high consumption. In most cases, it is impossible to dilute the required amount of epoxy glue, so often it is not all used in the process.
BF Series Compositions and Cyanoacrylate Glue
Under the BF brand, you can find several types of adhesive compositions. Good adhesive qualities for wood with other materials are found in BF 2 and BF 4. They are characterized by fast drying. Under normal humidity and temperature conditions, this takes no more than 60 minutes.
BF 2 is recommended for bonding wooden surfaces located indoors. It is resistant to heat and moisture.
BF 4 is characterized by resistance to low temperatures and good elasticity. This composition is also moisture-resistant but is intended for outdoor work. It should be applied in 2 layers, with a 15-minute interval between applications. The wood must be degreased and well cleaned before bonding.
Cyanoacrylate glue is the most expensive. This so-called instant glue is available in thick, medium, and liquid consistency. The liquid can penetrate the smallest cracks, while the thick can fill small gaps. If combined with an accelerator, it bonds almost instantly. This type is convenient for temporary bonding, as the bonded surfaces break if the glue joint is subjected to a sharp impact. However, such quick bonding is convenient because the element can be fixed in place until another strong glue sets.
Preparation of Improved Wood Glue
For bonding wood by hand, there is a wood glue with excellent elasticity, water resistance, and special bonding strength. Wood glue for wood can be purchased in granular form.
It is diluted with water and left to soak for 6 hours. During this time, it swells. Then the water is drained, and the remaining mixture is heated in a water bath. This prevents lumps. The mixture should not be boiled. The temperature of the mixture before use should not exceed +50°C. The time for complete drying of wooden surfaces is 6 hours. Such a composition loses its properties under the influence of water, so wet wood should be glued with another type. Wood glue is also available in the form of a gel-like mass, which is simply diluted with water to the desired consistency.
