In my experience with woodworking, the joy truly comes when you’re equipped with the right tools. Selecting the best wood glue is vital. A poor choice can be weak, overly thick, or even toxic. Worse yet, it can ruin your projects and drain your finances. To guide you towards a reliable choice, I’ve personally tried and tested some of the top wood glues available in the market. Trust me, the right glue can make all the difference.
Reviews of the Best Wood Glues
1. Gorilla 6206005 Wood Glue Natural Wood Color
While checking for the best wood glues, I found this Gorilla 6206005 Wood Glue. It has everything you need for a great product, including a strong initial tack, quick dry time, and inexpensive price. The glue only needs 30 minutes to dry before clamps can be removed, and it’ll be fully cured in less than 24 hours.
Additionally, I found that this glue is water resistant and dries to a natural color. You can also stain it, which is great. You can use the same glue for both indoor and outdoor woodworking projects, and compatibility-wise, it works well with hardwoods, softwoods, and even natural composite.
If you want a product that can create a stronger bond for wood projects and other applications, Gorilla is the one wood glue you should have in your arsenal.
What I Like
- The glue boasts high strength PVA glue, making it robust and dependable.
- It’s effective at low application temperatures, which is a significant advantage.
- It works efficiently on various materials, including wood, plastic, ceramics, leather, and rubber.
- I value its water-resistant properties, crucial for durability in different environments.
- The fast-drying feature is beneficial, with full curing achieved in less than a day.
- It can be stained to match the color of your project, enhancing aesthetic coherence.
What I Don't Like
- The bottle dispenser design is a bit cumbersome, potentially complicating the application process.
- This product might not be the friendliest option for beginners due to its characteristics and application nuances.
2. Titebond Ultimate Wood Glue
Titebond III Ultimate Wood Glue is undoubtedly one of the best glues out there. It’s waterproof even though it can be cleaned with water before setting. This product also retains its strength and bond regardless of wood finish. In addition, the glue takes some time to dry, so there’s some open time for assembly.
I appreciate that the Titebond Ultimate Wood Glue is approved for indirect food contact, making it an ideal choice for projects like crafting dining or coffee tables. Speaking as an expert, it’s noteworthy to mention that this PVA glue dries to a tan color. This feature isn’t a concern if you’re planning to use it for joints, as the color subtly blends without distracting from the beauty of the wood.
What I Like
- I'm pleased with its waterproof qualities, which provide assurance for projects exposed to moisture.
- The bonds it forms are notably strong and resilient, contributing to the longevity of the crafted pieces.
- Its approval for indirect food contact is a valuable feature, expanding its use for various kitchen-related projects.
- It's a reliable wood glue for woodworking tasks, consistently meeting the demands of the craft.
- With a strength surpassing most PVA glues available in the market, it offers superior bonding.
What I Don't Like
- The tan color it adopts upon drying may not always blend seamlessly with every project.
- In certain conditions, it demands an overnight drying period, which could slow down the overall process.
3. Glue Masters Shoe & Wood Adhesive
Glue Masters Shoe & Wood Adhesive is one of the most impressive wood glues we’ve ever come across. It is an industrial-strength cyanoacrylate wood glue capable of bonding most woodworking projects. As one of the strongest wood glues on the market, it can bond almost any piece of wood and has a remarkable set time of 15 seconds.
The low viscosity wood glue is also versatile and can be used on shoes. It has great water resistance as well. I’m not particularly fond of the fact that this CA glue isn’t FDA approved for indirect food contact. This means it’s not suitable for kitchen projects like cutting boards. Furthermore, based on my experience, it’s essential to use it only in well-ventilated spaces.
What I Like
- The bond it creates is truly solid, providing a dependable connection between surfaces.
- Upon drying, it presents a natural wood color.
- As a seasoned carpenter, I find it to be a top-tier adhesive.
- The high-strength cyanoacrylate (CA) formula is a standout.
- Once cured, it resists water effectively, which is crucial for the longevity of many projects.
- The quick-setting feature is immensely helpful, especially when working under time constraints.
What I Don't Like
- It is not FDA approved for indirect food contact, limiting its applications in kitchenware projects.
- For those looking to use it over time, be prepared to refrigerate it to ensure a prolonged shelf life.
4. Gorilla 18 Ounce Ultimate Waterproof Wood Glue
I love this bottle of glue because it is waterproof, yet any residue is easy to clean with water. It is one of the perfect and strongest wood glues for professionals and amateurs alike. The Gorilla Ultimate Waterproof Wood Glue can bond in 30 minutes which is plenty of assembly time for a glue-up.
I found the Gorilla Ultimate Wood Glue to be an exceptional choice for outdoor furniture projects. What caught my eye is that it’s sandable and paintable, with the dried glue showcasing a pleasing, natural color. Additionally, as an expert, I appreciate that it performs well in low temperatures, remaining effective even at 50 degrees Fahrenheit. This versatility in temperature adaptability makes it a reliable option in various working conditions.
What I Like
- The glue is not only waterproof but also reliably consistent for woodworking applications.
- Its texture allows for both sanding and painting, offering flexibility in project finishes.
- The long shelf life stands out, minimizing waste and allowing for extended use.
- It's suitable for outdoor projects, showcasing versatility.
- I appreciate the natural-looking color it dries to, which typically blends well with various woodworking projects.
What I Don't Like
- Its lack of a non-toxic rating raises some safety concerns, especially for those sensitive to chemical compositions.
- The nozzle design is somewhat specialized and might require a bit of a learning curve to handle efficiently.
5. Elmer’s E7010 Carpenter's Wood Glue
Elmer’s wood glue is another impressive product in my list of best wood glues. Its ease of cleaning and non-toxic nature is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. It is also highly resistant to heat, mold and mildew.
During my wood glue reviews, I found that Elmer’s wood glue even bonds stronger than some woods. Plus, it can be used on hardwood, softwood, particleboard, or porous materials. While it has a yellow color, it dries to a light tan — great for stained wood.
The Elmer’s E7010 Carpenter’s Wood Glue is great for any woodworking project you may have around the house. It is recommended for heavy duty use as well, and just takes 30 minutes of clamping. While it can’t be cleaned with water, it can be scraped off when wet. Finally, this polyvinyl acetate superglue can be sanded and painted.
What I Like
- This high-strength PVA superglue is adept for hardwoods, softwoods, or any porous materials, providing versatility.
- It allows for swift bonding, with wood pieces coming together in under 30 minutes.
- The inclusion of real wood fibers in the formula is a thoughtful touch, enhancing the adhesive’s compatibility with wood.
- Its effectiveness spans a wide range of DIY projects, making it a go-to for various crafting needs.
- The absence of harmful fumes makes the working environment safer and more comfortable.
- Its versatility extends to finishing, as it can be both painted and sanded to achieve the desired final appearance.
What I Don't Like
- Patience is required since it may take up to 24 hours to fully set and establish its bond.
- For optimal results, there’s a need to clean surfaces thoroughly before application.
6. Lineco Neutral pH Adhesive
The Lineco Neutral pH Adhesive is great for any wood and paper project. It is water-soluble when wet, making it easier to clean or extend the drying time of your glue-ups. I also loved the glue’s fast-drying nature. I had no issues using the Lineco PVA glue to join two pieces of wood for all kinds of applications. Not many wood glues can achieve this.
I was genuinely impressed by the versatility of this wood glue; it not only excels with wood but also bonds fabric effectively. However, it’s worth noting that it dispenses quite thick from the bottle. In our work, I found it necessary to dilute it with water to reach the desired viscosity for easier application. A noteworthy advantage is that it dries clear, a feature that certainly earns it a favored spot among my top picks.
What I Like
- This adhesive effectively works on wood, paper, and fabric, showcasing its wide application range.
- It boasts greater versatility than many wood glues I’ve encountered in the market.
- I’ve noticed it remains unaffected by wood finishes, which is crucial for various projects.
- The fact that it doubles as a sealant is a bonus, providing added value in woodworking tasks.
- Its water-soluble nature facilitates easy cleanup, which is a practical feature during the crafting process.
What I Don't Like
- Be aware it’s not suitable for use with paint brushes due to its quick-drying property.
- While it’s reliable, it doesn’t offer the same level of strength as some other PVA glues available.
7. Titebond Liquid Hide Glue
The Titebond Liquid Hide Glue is a great carpenter’s wood glue. It bonds superbly for all kinds of wood and furniture repair. The hide glue is also perfect for achieving the crackling process when applied over latex paint, which gives boards and furniture an antique appearance.
I loved that this glue sets slowly, giving me the time to complete precise assembly of the material. Some clamping time is needed to keep the items glued together, but the bond is strong after.
The hide glue is great for sandability and is resistant to wood finish. This type of glue is perfect for hobbyists and crafters looking to create original furniture or just join a few pieces of wood together for a project. With a translucent light brown color when dry, this is the best hide glue I can recommend for woodworkers.
What I Like
- This is a formidable adhesive, particularly for carpentry tasks.
- It showcases impressive resistance to wood finishes, which can be crucial for many projects.
- Its efficacy in achieving the woodworker crackling effect is commendable.
- As hide glues go, this one exhibits high quality.
- The short clamp time facilitates efficiency in the workflow.
What I Don't Like
- Application demands a brush, which may not always be the most convenient method.
- While it’s efficient, it doesn't bond all types of wood together with the same efficacy.
8. Titebond II Premium Wood Glue
The Titebond II is another great glue you can use to join pieces of wood together. While it’s not as strong as my top choice from the same brand, it is still one of the most effective wood glues on the market. This Titebond wood glue can bond most wooden surfaces regardless of wood grain orientation and is an excellent choice for woodworkers.
Titebond II is specially formulated with a cross-linking polyvinyl acetate (PVA), which makes it more water-resistant than traditional wood glue. PVA is an adhesive used for most wood projects.
I was impressed with this glue’s versatility, since you can use it to create items from softwood, medium woods, and hardwood. You can mix it with sawdust to fill gaps in the flooring, and it still retains its original strength. Unfortunately, Titebond II takes a few hours to set completely.
What I Like
- The ease of use of this PVA wood glue is remarkable, making it suitable for various applications.
- Once dry, it forms a strong and reliable bond, which is fundamental in woodworking.
- The possibility of adjusting its viscosity by mixing it with water is convenient.
- It's suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications, showcasing its versatility.
- Whether working with softwoods or hardwoods, this glue performs admirably.
What I Don't Like
- Be prepared to wait, as it takes several hours to fully dry and set.
- Upon drying, it adopts a brown translucent hue, which might not be ideal for all projects.
9. Glue Masters Professional Grade CA Super Glue
This Glue Masters Professional Grade CA Super Glue is as tough as they come. I found that the wood glue can outlast the wood itself, staying tough after the furniture has fallen apart. It settles in under 60 seconds and dries with a translucent finish. This super glue can be used for all types of wood projects; it even bonds glass.
One thing I didn’t like about this wood glue is that because of its thick viscosity, it tends to gum up the inside tip. I had to constantly clear it with a pin to use the glue. Besides that, it’s a highly versatile cyanoacrylate glue that’s suitable for most applications and DIY projects.
What I Like
- This adhesive is notably tougher than many other wood glues available in the market.
- Its ability to bond not just wood, but also plastic, fiberglass, and metal is a testament to its versatility.
- I appreciate that it retains the original color of the wood upon drying, maintaining the integrity and aesthetic of the material.
- Handling large surface areas is not an issue for this glue, making it efficient for bigger projects.
- Its concentrated formula means that a small amount indeed goes a long way, providing value.
What I Don't Like
- Patience is a prerequisite, as the glue takes some time to set and harden.
- Due to its thick viscosity, it has a tendency to gum up the bottle dispenser tip.
10. Weldbond 8-50420 Multi-Purpose Adhesive Glue
As its name suggests, this glue bonds surfaces with the same strength as a metal weld. It is a type of glue that’s compatible with brick, stone, ceramic, glass, concrete, and even metal. I also found that the glue leaves a natural wood color when the glue used for the wood dries, and sanding it was easy-peasy. It is suitable for sealing, priming, and dust proofing as well.
While reviewing wood glues, I was impressed to find that the Weldbond 8-50420 Multi-Purpose Adhesive Glue could be used as a bonding agent. The glue is not toxic and safe for both indoor and outdoor applications. Unfortunately, I found that it’s not waterproof, so be mindful of the project you’re using it for.
What I Like
- Its versatility is striking, effectively adhering to materials such as glass, concrete, brick, and metal.
- The water resistance rating is commendable and suitable for a range of environments.
- It serves multiple purposes, from sealing to dust-proofing, even pricing tasks.
- Upon drying, it turns clear, which can be advantageous in maintaining the original aesthetics.
- The ability to stain while it's still wet provides flexibility in finishing.
- A bonus: there's no need for clamping during the setting phase.
What I Don't Like
- While it offers water resistance, it's not entirely waterproof.
- When it comes to welding steel to steel, it doesn’t always achieve a 100% effective bond.
11. J-B Weld 50151 WoodWeld Epoxy Syringe
This two-part epoxy solution, J-B Weld 50151 WoodWeld, can be used to connect almost any kind of wood. The solution is made up of resin and a hardener, which creates a solid bond when mixed together.The tube’s resealable cap is great since it allows you to use what you need for your glue-up without wasting any product.
And because of its watertight bond, you can use it even on rotten wood. As an epoxy, you may use it in conditions as low as 40°F. And unlike PVA wood glue, it won’t shrink or foam.
The J-B Weld glue sets after six minutes and can cure between one to three hours, making it ideal for oddly shaped goods. Overall, it’s one of the best epoxy glues we’ve tested.
What I Like
- Its fast-setting and curing properties stand out, speeding up the project completion time significantly.
- The bond it forms is extremely strong and durable, providing reliability in various applications.
- I value that it does not shrink during the curing process, maintaining the integrity of the bond.
- The absence of foaming during application is a noteworthy feature, ensuring a cleaner working process.
- Its water-resistant characteristic makes it suitable for different environments and uses.
What I Don't Like
- Due to its rapid setting time, you need to work swiftly to ensure everything is positioned correctly before it sets.
- Be prepared to use a bit of elbow grease when removing the cap, as it can sometimes be a challenge.
Wood Glue Buyer’s Guide
Ditching the screws and nails for adhesion? Finding the right wood glue may not be as easy as you think, mostly because the chemical makeup of each is different. Some glues can work with almost anything, but some might not be ideal for outdoor furniture or other materials. So, while we’ve combed the market for the top wood glues in this review, here’s a handy buying guide to help you determine the best choice for your glue-ups.
Durability
Durability is an essential consideration when working on cabinet construction or crafting projects. Opting for durable wood glues ensures longevity that can surpass the furniture’s lifespan. Polyurethane or PVA glues are among the most reliable options, known for their exceptional durability. These glues create strong bonds that withstand the test of time, making them suitable for indoor and outdoor applications.
If you’re filling holes or you need something that doesn’t shrink or foam, epoxy is your best bet. It’s a great option if you’re gluing irregularly-shaped items, since epoxy works fast and you don’t need clamps. The disadvantage with epoxy, however, is the short assembly time since it bonds so fast. You also need to sand the surface for best results.
Safety/Toxicity
Everybody knows that adhesives aren’t safe for ingestion. But some glues are safe if they come in secondary contact with food. These glues can be used for kitchen items like cutting boards.
Glues that are not toxic, like the original formula of Titebond, are also safer for indoor use.
Type of Wood Glue
To give you a better idea about the different types of glue, we’ll discuss the main difference of each one here.
- PVA Glue.
As the most common type of glue, polyvinyl acetate or PVA glue can be used for indoor projects and other applications. It’s cheap and it’s one of the bonding agents you can use for most surfaces. It has a permanent bond as well. When using polyvinyl acetate (PVA), I recommend giving it a few minutes of clamp time to make sure it’s glued securely. You may find some residue once the glue dries. So, my tip is to only apply it in small amounts. That said, the excess glue can be easily cleaned.
- Polyurethane
A moisture-activated adhesive, this type is a synthetic plastic resin that’s great for bonding wood in humid conditions. Polyurethane works on stone, foam, glass, wood, metal, ceramic, and concrete. Wood fibers don’t dry out with this type of adhesive as well. It glides on nicely, but to remove any excess glue, sanding or using mineral spirits will do the job. Also keep in mind that since it relies on moisture, the glue expands if you don’t use clamps. In our books, the best polyurethane wood glue is the Titebond Polyurethane Glue. - Cyanoacrylate (CA) Wood Glue
CA glue is an excellent choice for joining two pieces of material together. It has an industrial adhesive strength and the cure time is short, making it great for small repairs and temporary bonds. You can break temporary adhesion with a hammer. CA glue can bond materials instantly, as opposed to other wood glues that take some time. This glue is also excellent for hairline cracks. - Epoxy Wood Glue
In contrast to other wood glues, which are in a runny liquid form, epoxy wood glues have a super thick viscosity and consistency that’s perfect for filling holes and doing boat repairs. Its formula has two parts that work through chemical reaction: a resin and a hardener. For best results with a two-part epoxy, use it on clean, sanded surfaces. It may take a while to fully dry, though, and it takes hours for it to be fully cured, so a bit of clamp time is essential. You can also use epoxy on rotted wood. Also resistant to temperature and chemicals, epoxy can form the strongest bond. - Hide Glue
Hide glues are adhesives that come from animal hides or animal collagen. They can be solid or liquid, and can be either applied with a brush or with an applicator, respectively. This is a good wood glue if you’re working on fine furniture repair, and it remains a traditional product that’s still used today in repairing antiques. It also works on glass, leather, and cloth. If you’re looking for the best hide glue, I can recommend the Titebond Genuine Hide Glue. - Hot Glue Sticks
This type is not often discussed, but if you don’t need maximum strength for bonding materials, hot glue sticks are a great choice. Convenience is the major benefit of this. Unlike other glues, you just need to load it into a hot glue gun and squeeze out by pressing the trigger. It sets quickly, dries to a natural tan color, and provides a better bond compared to typical hot glue products. While it won’t have that extremely strong adhesive strength, you can still use hot glue sticks for many applications, especially if you’re just working on basic interior projects.
Compatibility with Wood
Most glues will create a strong bond with wooden surfaces. However, the kind of wood also matters. There’s softwood, plywood, chipboard, and natural composites. The wood grain also has a part to play. These don’t all react to glue the same way. Your choice should be based on the type you’re working with.
Drying Time
A clamp time and a cure time are two things you might find on wood glue labels. To briefly explain, the clamp time is how long the pieces need to be held together until the product sets properly. On the other hand, cure time is how long you have to wait before the glue dries fully.
Drying time can affect the pace of your work. I found some glues that fully dried in less than 30 minutes during my test, while others needed days. On average, most great products will set in less than an hour but will need longer to dry completely.
If you need instant bonding, something that dries fast like the Titebond Quick & Thick is a good option. The clamp time is just 15 minutes, which is faster than most other wood glues. However, this also means shorter assembly time.
Polishing wooden surfaces is easy peasy when you both have an excellent glue and reliable wooden fillers I listed here.
Tips in Applying Wood Glue
Make sure to find out the best way to preserve your glue. Most premium glue products don’t last longer than 12 months. This information will be available on the manufacturer’s website.
When you apply wood glue, be careful not use too much to avoid excessive squeeze out. It can be messy, so be ready to wipe it up. Take note of the clamp time and drying time as well. It’s essential to clean your glue’s nozzle after use to prevent clogging. If it’s water-soluble, you have the choice of wiping it with a wet rag.
Finally, it’s always best to keep glue from your hands and other body parts while working. If you do get glue on your skin, acetone is one great choice for removing it. Others are nail polish removers and glue removers.
(Want to test the efficiency of using a wood glue? Why not try building wooden crates out of pallets using an effective wood glue)
FAQ
What is the Strongest Glue for Wood?
Polyurethane glues are the strongest glues for wood. They can bind other items like plastic, glass, fabric, and even concrete. They are also ideal for fixing a stripped screw holes at home. Gorilla glue is a great option among polyurethane glues.
Is Gorilla Glue better than wood glue?
Yes, Gorilla glue is better than most wood glues. It has an excellent drying time while still giving you enough room to adjust the pieces. Gorilla glue is also water resistant and suitable for outdoor applications and indoor use.
Is wood glue strong enough for furniture?
Wood glue is strong enough for furniture. It binds the pieces well that the joints outlast the furniture itself. Some kinds of glue, like Titebond’s liquid hide glue, can also be used for crackling.
My Top Pick For a Wood Glue:
Gorilla Wood Glue Natural Wood Color
Following a series of tests, I agreed that the Gorilla Wood Glue Natural Wood Color is the best wood glue today. It has incredible bonding strength and a quick set time. The glue is also non-toxic and suitable for both indoor and outdoor projects.
Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
