How to Glue Wood Together

Publish date: 2024-08-06

Dozens of glues claim to work well on wood and a variety of other materials. But regular wood glue is the best wood glue for raw wood-to-wood joinery. Most wood glues are a type of polyvinyl acetate (PVA wood glue). Also sometimes called carpenter's glue, wood glue is formulated to penetrate wood fibers, making glue joints that are stronger than the wood itself.

Yellow exterior glue (sometimes gray)

Yellow exterior glue is used for outdoor projects but not continuous submersion. It will be labeled water resistant or exterior. Titebond II is one brand.

White and yellow interior glue

White and yellow interior glue is the most common, workhorse wood glue, but it's not for outdoor use. Probond is one choice.

Liquid hide glue

Use this wood glue for furniture repair; very long open time for assembly—up to 30 minutes. Requires a long curing time. Titebond is one brand for liquid hide glue.

Polyurethane glue

Use it when you need a completely waterproof glue. Also glues metal and some plastics. Long open time for assembly—up to 15 minutes; curing time: up to five hours. Gorilla Glue is one polyurethane glue option.

Epoxy

Use it when you need to fill gaps in wood and for great strength. Comes in two parts that must be mixed just before using. Epoxy will glue most materials, and it's waterproof. Won't wash off your skin—or anything else. Systemthree is one epoxy brand.