Entry tags:

adhesives, glue gun, hot glue, hot glue gun

Choosing the right glue for your project
Different projects require different adhesives because after an adhesive dries it may become hard and brittle, or it may remain pliable and flexible. For example, if you use glue to repair a cabinet joint, it would make no sense to use an adhesive that doesn't become hard when it dries; but using two different types of materials might require a more flexible glue due to their different expansion and contraction properties. A hardening glue would break away from the material too easily.





You will double check that your adhesive is chemical resistant if the material you will be gluing is subjected to chemical treatment. Your kitchen counter is a great example of this. It is a surface that is heavily exposed to household cleaners that containt chemicals. It would be a bad idea to use an adhesive that is not chemical resistant.





The enivornment is another factor you should consider when choosing a glue. If you will be gluing something that will remain outdoors, or in an area of high humidity, you will definitely want to use waterproof glue with a water repellent that can withstand the moisture.





So remember, not all adhesives can be used for all projects.

• A common type of adhesive is the glue used in a hot glue gun. Hot glue is a moderate bonding adhesive that sets very quickly. Hot glue is most often used by hobbyists and for crafts.


• Epoxy glue is another type of adhesive and it must be mixed before it can be used. Overall, this strong bonding glue is best used on non-porous material, except for plastic. You don't want to use epoxy glue on plastic because it will dissolve it.


• Contact cement is often used to bond surfaces where clamping is not feasible. Once applied, the bond is permanent and the glue remains strong.


• Another moderate strength adhesive is white glue. Because this glue is not water repellant it is best used on paper and cloth.


• Animal glue, the first glue that people used, is still widely in use. In liquid form, Animal glue can be applied cold or hot. Constructing furniture is a common use for Animal glue because it has strong bonding abilities.

There are many types of adhesives and finding the right glue for your project can make all the difference in if that glue will hold long term. Always remember that you still need to read the directions even on a substance as simple as glue because many of the glues are toxic and even flammable.