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McLendons.com, as a division of McLendon Hardware, Inc., recognizes that some do-it-yourself projects are more complex and difficult than others and may require greater knowledge and more experience than the reader of this material possesses.

With this is in mind, all information presented is intended to serve as a first step to assist with a project. We do not and will not take any responsibility for the particular results of the above referenced project, nor will we assume any liability for personal injury or damage that may result from the information presented.

We strongly suggest that professional help be consulted if the above project is beyond the comfort or experience level of the reader. As with any project, please also make sure all local building codes are followed and permits are obtained.

There are many different kinds of wood glue on the market. The trick is to know when to use each kind.

Glue Types

Polyvinyl Acetate:

Polyvinyl acetate, commonly called PVA, is a great general purpose wood glue for indoor uses. While it is available under many different brand names and formulations, it generally can be unclamped after 30 minutes, though, depending on the formulation, it can take between 1 and 2 days to cure completely. PVA has a low moisture resistance and should not be used outdoors or in applications where it will regularly get wet.

Aliphatic Resin:

Aliphatic resin, commonly called yellow glue or, simply, wood glue, is a stronger version of regular white glue. It is strong, resistant to moisture and useful in stopping up gaps between pieces. It dries quickly and needs to be clamped in a timely fashion. Clamps can be removed in 30 minutes.

Plastic-Resin:

Plastic-resin glue, also called urea-formaldehyde, is extremely strong glue that is best used in places that are going to get a lot of abuse. Plastic-resin glue is often used, for example, to lay down veneers.

It comes as a powder that is mixed with water. Once dry, though, it is extremely water resistant. The temperature must be over 70 degrees Fahrenheit to use plastic-resin glue, and the glue begins to set in 15 minutes. The surfaces being bonded together must remain clamped for as little as 5 hours and as long as 12 - the difference between the times being due to temperature.

Resorcinol:

Resorcinol is the best glue to use on outdoor wood due to its high strength and moisture resistance. It is often used in and on boats.

It comes in a two part mixture - a powder and a catalyst. The glue should be applied at room temperature and then the pieces clamped for between 10 and 12 hours.

Other Glue Types

School Glue:

White glue of the kind used in elementary schools can be used as wood glue in places which only see light loads. It is often used in the creation of balsawood models.

Hide or Animal Glue:

Hide glue is among the oldest types of glue known. It is made from the processes connective tissue of various animals.

Many purists believe that hide glue is the best type of glue to use in furniture repair. This is because hide glue is "reversible" - meaning that with a little steam and heat, the glue can be softened and the joint disassembled. Furthermore, hide glue can be applied directly on top of older layers of hide glue, leading to less clean up and reduced chance of breakage when a joint does need to be disassembled.

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Used in This Project

Materials:
PVA Glue
Aliphatic Resin
Plastic Resin
Resorcinol