It’s annoying when our furniture breaks or chips, much more if it’s a useful tool in the household. What’s even trickier is bonding two unlike surfaces, such as wood and metal.
Here our experts tested a line of the best glue for metal to wood and came up with a detailed review to help you decide which adhesive to use for those severed pieces.
Reviews of the Top Glues for Metal to Wood
1. Loctite Super Glue Ultra Gel Control
The most common reason you’re looking for glue that can bond metal to wood is when you’re going for a repair. With the Loctite super glue, you can easily metal back to the wood without worries.
This Loctite Super Glue Ultra Gel Control is a rubber-toughened instant adhesive mainly designed to catch repairs. We like how this instant adhesive resists impact, extreme temperatures, and even vibration.
It also comes in patented packaging, allowing you to ensure air-tight storage, keeping the adhesive fresh. Since it’s made of gel, this glue isn’t runny, which suits bonding metal even on vertical surfaces.
What We Like
- Flexible even when cured
- Easy application
- Doesn’t need clamping
What We Don't Like
- May not be for those who dislike a gel formula
- Difficult to remove once it sticks to the skin
2. Starbond Medium Premium CA
Another multi-purpose glue you can consider is Cyanoacrylate-based adhesives, like this Starbond Medium Premium CA. The packaging is great, and it’s an industrial-grade adhesive.
It’s easy to apply and comes with applicators: a built-in needle to prevent hardened glue from clogging and extension tips to stabilize flow control. What we like more about this glue is its variety of consistencies available and longevity of shelf life.
As long as you keep it stored under 40 degrees Fahrenheit, it can last longer. Just a tip, when you bond metal with Medium CA, keep track of the activator that eases sticking wood onto the surface for better results.
What We Like
- Multi-purpose
- Safe for nail use
- Long shelf life
What We Don't Like
- Has a runny consistency when not mixed properly
- More expensive than other brands
3. J-B Weld 8276 KwikWeld Quick Setting Steel Reinforced Epoxy
This epoxy glue has incredible bond temperature extremes, being able to withstand up to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s one of our favorites as it bonds wood easily due to its extreme performance as a metal glue.
This J-B Weld 8276 KwikWeld Quick Setting Steel Reinforced Epoxy Glue works on multiple surfaces, acting as an adhesive, which dries quickly. It’s one of the best glue for metal to wood that’s available in the market that’s handy with a lot of different usages, too.
We were impressed with how fast it was cured, roughly about six hours from when it was attached.
What We Like
- Impressive Tensile Strength
- Heat-resistant epoxy
- Sets quickly
What We Don't Like
- Messy to prepare
- Needs to be mixed by hand
4. Gorilla 2-Part Epoxy Syringe
The Gorilla Epoxy 2-Part Syringe is one of the most regarded adhesives, popular for its syringe-style applicator. It comes with two separate barrels: one holding the resin and one with the hardener.
As a Gorilla brand, it didn’t disappoint. It’s a two-part epoxy adhesive that can withstand temperature extremes and is very effective in gluing aluminum metal to wood surfaces.
What we love most about this is how you can equally combine parts, preventing uneven ratios. It’s also water and solvent resistant, which doesn’t harden easily as long as the plastic plugs are intact.
What We Like
- Moisture resistant
- For indoor and outdoor uses
- Dries clear and has a hard finish
What We Don't Like
- Only works best with aluminum
- Leaks if plugs are not placed properly
5. Original Gorilla Glue
Another really impressive glue is this Original Gorilla Glue. Gorilla is one of the best glue brands in the market, and almost all that exists from its line are made with extreme bonding properties.
As one of the reliable polyurethane-based glues, it’s water-stimulated, and we find it perfect for easing any bonding process of clamping wood to metal.
But more than this characteristic, its bonding properties are paramount that it can surely withstand natural calamities such as hurricanes and floods. Just keep in mind that the wood expands in volume, so you should apply it sparingly.
What We Like
- Weather resistant
- Expands in volume, so a little amount will go a long way
- Does not have a strong odor
What We Don't Like
- Difficult to control once it expands
- Hard to remove once the glue sticks onto your skin
6. Weldbond Multi-Surface, Non-Toxic Adhesive Glue
If you’re looking for a glue that dries clear, Weldbond Multi-Surface Non-Toxic Adhesive Glue may be something you’d want to consider. It bonds almost anything, whether it’s wood, stone fabrics, metal, or steel.
It’s also safe for kids, as it doesn’t emit toxic fumes. We find it a good alternative adhesive for stronger hold when working on kid crafts.
Not all adhesives are non-toxic, which is why we find this one a real catch. When choosing a metal-to-wood glue, it’s important to consider those that are environmentally friendly, so this makes an efficient option.
What We Like
- Non-toxic
- Odorless
- Non-flammable
What We Don't Like
- Does not dry quickly
- Needs to get tacky before it bonds
7. Adiseal Hi-Grab Extra Strong Grab Adhesive
Bonding metal surfaces with wood is tricky, but this Adiseal adhesive performs impressively in creating a permanent bond on surfaces it glues together. We like its different drying colors that suit any adhesive needs.
One important thing to remember when using this is you need to sand thoroughly the surfaces to ensure a good hold when you attach the metal to wood. But unlike most adhesives, this one doesn’t shrink or crack due to its gel-like formulation.
However, using the Adiseal Hi-Grab Extra Strong Grab Adhesive will require a caulk gun [1] for application, as manually squeezing the tube won’t be effective in applying the glue.
What We Like
- Waterproof
- Has high gap-fill properties
- No sealing is required when used on wood
What We Don't Like
- Needs a caulk gun
- Hardens easily when not capped properly
Can You Glue Metal to Wood?
To glue metal on wood is challenging but doable when you use the right type of glue. Check the labels to ensure that it has an incredibly strong bond. Using the right glue will allow you to create a very strong bond that will attach metal and wood.
Can a Wood Glue Work on Metal?
It’s possible to stick metal to wood, but it can be a little arduous, brought about by different porous surfaces. One technique to do it is by using Gorilla glue.
Gorilla glue is a polyurethane-based glue that can quickly secure wood to metal.
(But how does the Gorilla glue differ from Titebond? Check out this comparison next!)
Glues for Joining Metal and Wood: Buyer’s Guide
Resistance to Water
The best advice to ensure resistance on your projects is to opt for waterproof glue. Since pieces used are commonly left exposed, it’s inevitable to protect them from UV rays, snow, and rain.
Using an adhesive that’s vulnerable to these conditions will prompt your projects to fall apart.
Tensile Strength
Certain types of glue have very high tensile strength and can ensure that your project withstands heavy tension. To know your glue’s tensile, always check the product label.
Flexibility
When used in a household setting, most will opt for superglues that are flexible on multiple surfaces. The product should be able to bond ceramic surfaces and even wood to metal.
Temperature
Worried about your hair iron metals falling apart? Good thing some adhesives can withstand even high temperatures increasing the bond’s durability. The label should be indicated on the adhesive can to know how much hot and cold temperatures it can resist.
Gluing Metal to Wood: Step-by-Step Guide
To attach wood to metal, there’s a certain process that should be followed. Since it’s tricky, we always recommend DIYers and woodworkers alike be cautious in following these steps to avoid projects from falling out.
Necessary Supplies
- Tape
- Fixtures or clamps
- Your choice of glue or epoxy
- Apron
- Goggles
- Gloves
- Steel Wool
- The metal and wood
- Fine grit sandpaper
Step #1: Ensure Your Safety
Not all glues can simply attach metal to wood. You must have the correct glue to combine these two different surfaces. Ensure that you follow the product manufacturer’s safety instructions.
Choose a well-ventilated workshop area with ample space for all your needed supplies. Use old clothes or paper to cover your furniture. Apart from metal to wood glue, the parts you’ll combine should fit each other to ensure there will be a flexible bond. Check for the particles or fragments that will hinder the bonding agent.
Keep in mind that glue should only be used for non-weight-bearing fixtures. Always wear gloves, and goggles, especially when handling something weighty.
Step #2: Preparation
When working on any project, preparation is very much vital. Both your workplace and the materials you need should be prepared ahead of time to ensure that you’re able to work efficiently and at a faster pace.
This also prevents obstruction when you start working, since you’ll know right away if there are missing materials.