Selecting high-quality wood glue is vital for ensuring the durability, safety, aesthetics, and cost-effectiveness of your project. But if you’re unfamiliar with the different types, you may end up buying the wrong glue, which can lead to poor and weak adhesion.
So, I’ve created this article to help you find the most suitable and strongest wood glue for your project.
Reviews of the Strong Glues for Wood
1. Elmer's E7330 Wood Glue Max
Elmer’s E7330 Wood Glue Max is the most popular material used by many woodworkers for various projects. I’ve tried a bunch of different wood glues over the years, but this one, hands down, is my go-to. Although it’s marketed for interior application, its bonding strength is even stronger than other brands promoted for exterior use.
It’s highly resistant to weather and temperature variations, so the bond will not fail even when exposed to harsh environments.
But what I like the most about this glue is it’s easy to apply and clean up with water, unlike other wood glue that leaves residue on the wood surface. Overall, this wood glue certainly delivers a strong and clean bond.
What I Like
- One thing that made this wood glue stand out was the incredibly durable and strong bond it provided
- It's suitable for both interior and exterior applications
- The no-run, no-drip formula was a lifesaver, especially for intricate designs
- Another bonus was how straightforward both its application and cleanup processes were, making my woodworking tasks hassle-free
What I Don't Like
- Over time, I noticed that it had a relatively short shelf life, requiring me to use it up quickly
- For some projects, especially those that needed a thinner consistency, I found the glue to be a bit on the thicker side
2. Titebond III 1416 Ultimate Waterproof Wood Glue
If you’re working on an outdoor application that requires a strong bond to withstand heavy loads and high stress, the Titebond III 1416 Ultimate Waterproof Wood Glue is just right for your project.
This adhesive boasts waterproof characteristics, providing a protective barrier against water and moisture, which significantly enhances its overall durability.
I’ve also noticed its excellent gap-filling properties. I had a couple of joints that weren’t aligning perfectly, but this glue took care of it, ensuring a secure bond throughout.
Quick tip from my experience: while it sets pretty fast (under an hour in most cases), always let it cure for a full day for the best bond. If you’re concerned with food safety, there is no need to worry, as this glue is FDA-approved for food contact.
What I Like
- When working on projects that might encounter water or moisture, this glue proved invaluable with its water-resistant qualities
- I tackled some heavy-duty projects recently, and this product stood up to the challenge beautifully.
- One highlight for me was its versatility, both for indoor and outdoor applications
- The easy application process was a relief, making the entire task more manageable
What I Don't Like
- One thing I noticed was that sometimes it caused a yellow or dark brown discoloration on the wood
- After drying, there were times I had to deal with some glue residue left behind
3. Gorilla 6231501 Wood Glue
If you’re looking for durable wood glue for an affordable price, Gorilla 6231501 Wood Glue is what you need. This provides a strong bond for exterior and interior applications. It’s water-resistant, protecting the bond from moisture and water damage, helping your structure to last longer.
Another perk is its compatibility with various woods. I’ve tried it on both hardwoods and softwoods, and the bond was equally strong. It can be painted or stained over, so it looks seamless for your furniture and decorative wood items.
Additionally, it has an impressive drying and curing time. I could be impatient sometimes, so it’s good that this glue only requires 20 to 30 minutes to completely dry and 24 hours to fully cure.
What I Like
- Compared to other brands, it was quite affordable without compromising on performance
- The seamless application ensured the bond was consistent and strong every time
- I appreciated how it accepted stains and paints with ease
- The rapid drying and curing time meant I didn't have to wait around too long
What I Don't Like
- The consistency was a bit too thick for my liking on certain projects
- Occasionally, I noticed it left some drips on the surface, which required me to be extra cautious during application
4. Titebond 5004 II Premium Wood Glue
The Titebond 5004 II Premium Wood Glue is an excellent choice for your outdoor projects as it is one of the strongest wood glues that can resist water, moisture, mildew, humidity, and other environmental factors.
If dried and cured properly, it offers a durable and strong bond that can support heavy loads and high stress. This is the reason why most woodworkers use it for their larger projects.
The finishing touches are vital for me, and this glue doesn’t disappoint there either. Once I gave it 24 hours to fully cure, I could sand down the excess without any issue, making the joints smooth and almost invisible. This is perfect for interior wood pieces.
What I Like
- When I had projects that required a glue to hold substantial weight, this one did the trick splendidly
- On embarking upon larger projects, I found this adhesive's strength truly came to the fore, making it my go-to for more extensive tasks
- I found it ideal for exterior and interior applications
- An additional benefit was its sandability and compatibility with stains
What I Don't Like
- Its thick consistency posed a bit of a challenge in some applications
- A point to note is it isn't suitable for projects that come in contact with food
5. Starbond B0B12L3M3R Super Fast Thin CA Glue
If you’re bonding hard-to-reach joints, this CA glue from Starbond can help complete your project efficiently. It comes with applicator nozzles and precision micro tips, making the application process easier and cleaner.
Additionally, it has clog-free pin caps to ensure you can easily re-use it even when stored for a longer period. Every time I unscrewed the cap, it was as if I was using a brand new bottle. Since this is a CA glue, it provides a durable and stronger bond.
The Starbond B0B12L3M3R Super Fast Thin CA Glue is particularly designed for penetrating into tight spaces, so it works well for bonding intricate wood pieces. When it dries, it creates a beautiful glossy finish, so it looks aesthetically appealing even without stains or paint.
What I Like
- It dries instantly, speeding up my project timelines significantly
- I was pleasantly surprised with its longer shelf life
- For those tricky spots and hard-to-reach areas in some of my projects, this adhesive was a game-changer
- The easy application made my tasks hassle-free
What I Don't Like
- It's more expensive than other wood glue variants in the market
- It didn't quite make the cut for some of my bigger projects
6. Titebond Genuine 5013 Hide Glue
If your project requires a seamless and clean wood glue application to achieve a sophisticated yet durable bond, this Titebond Genuine 5013 Hide Glue is a great choice for you.
This glue has received critical acclaim within the antique and restoration community. Being the first brand to offer a hide glue liquid formula ready for use, it has developed a devoted following among enthusiasts.
What stood out for me, beyond its strength, was the unique aesthetic it brought to the table. When applied to wood, it creates a crackling effect, which adds an elegant appeal.
However, a small piece of advice if you’re considering this glue: always ensure your wood is sanded properly. This glue needs sanded surfaces to achieve a durable and beautiful bond.
What I Like
- It adds aesthetic value to the finished product
- When I used it on a few pieces, the bond stood the test of time, showcasing its durability
- It's a ready-to-use hide glue formula; no mixing or prepping the formula was needed
- For those cherished antique furniture pieces, this was my adhesive of choice
What I Don't Like
- On the downside, it did set me back a bit more financially compared to other glues
- It requires meticulous surface preparation, which sometimes was a bit of a chore
7. Evo-Stik 30615823 Exterior Wood Glue
Evo-Stik 30615823 continues to impress the woodworking industry with this latest wood glue product. This wood glue has extreme adhesion capability, providing a durable and tougher bond.
It’s formulated to withstand weather variations, making it ideal for your outdoor projects. Additionally, it’s suitable for any type of wood, regardless of its condition.
But what really sets it apart from other brands in the market today is its quick setting and curing properties which only takes 5 to 10 minutes to set and fully cures in 24 hours. I found it particularly helpful for bigger projects that need quick turnaround time.
What I Like
- It provides an extremely strong bond that remained steadfast under various conditions
- Its fast setting and curing properties made it a staple in my workshop, especially when I was under tight deadlines
- Its versatility impressed me, proving effective not just on wood, but on multiple materials
- The ease with which I could apply it took a lot of the guesswork out of my projects
What I Don't Like
- It did come with a slightly higher price tag
- A minor hiccup I faced was the nozzle; it had a tendency to clog if I wasn't diligent about cleaning it post-use
Strong Glues for Wood Buyer’s Guide
Choosing the right wood glue for your woodworking project is essential to ensure that the bond will not fall apart.
However, there are several factors to consider when buying wood glue that can affect the success of your project, such as the following:
Amount
When buying wood glue, the first thing you must determine is how much glue will you need to complete your project. This is because selecting the appropriate wood glue depends on the size and scope of your woodworking project.
Therefore, it is necessary to have a proper estimate of the amount of wood glue you will need. To do this, you must measure the total length of the wood joints that you will be bonding together.
This includes all the edges or surfaces that will be glued. Based on this measurement, you must estimate the amount of glue needed per joint.
Although you must also consider other factors, including the type of wood and application method, the general rule of thumb is one ounce or 30mL of glue can cover a linear foot of joint
But it’s essential to also account for some wastage, as some glue may be lost during the application or cleanup process. So, you must add 10 to 20% to your estimated amount of glue needed for your project.
When you have this information, it will help you determine if the quantity of glue you plan to buy is sufficient for your project.
Type of Wood Glue
When buying wood glue for your project, you must consider various factors that could affect the effectiveness and compatibility of the wood glue you’re planning to buy and use.
Here are the different wood glues available in the market that you can choose from:
Cyanoacrylate or CA Glue
This is one of the most popular wood glues also known as super glue. It’s commonly used by homeowners for a quick repair of smaller parts of their furniture and other wood items.
It is renowned for its fast setting and drying properties, making it an essential item in many households for quick fixes. It easily forms a strong bond with various types of materials, including wood, metal, plastic, ceramic, glass, and more.
When applied properly on the appropriate material, it can provide a stronger bond that is highly resistant to water, moisture, and heat.
For your woodworking projects, you can use cyanoacrylate glue to bond small wooden parts together, fill gaps, fix cracks, and secure joints.
However, I wouldn’t recommend it for heavy-duty load-bearing joints and large-scale woodworking projects as its bond strength is not suitable for handling too much stress and heavy weight.
Epoxy-Based Glue
Now, if you need wood glue for your exterior applications and larger project where heavyweight and significant stress will be applied to the bond, an epoxy-based glue can be a better option for you.
Generally, epoxy-based wood is more resistant to moisture and humidity compared to cyanoacrylate glue, making it ideal for outdoor applications that are exposed to humidity, moisture, and weather variations.
Also, epoxy-based wood provides a more durable and stronger bond than cyanoacrylate glue. Therefore, it’s more suitable to use for load-bearing joints and other applications that need great bond strength.
However, epoxy-based wood needs a longer drying and curing time, so it’s not ideal for quick repair or projects with time constraints.
Additionally, it requires proper mixing of resin and hardener for effective use, unlike other types of glue that you can directly apply on the wood.
Polyurethane Glue
This glue, which is also called PU glue, is another type of glue suitable for outdoor and high-moisture applications. But it also works well indoor applications.
In fact, it’s popular among woodworkers due to its versatility. It gives a durable bond to wood, ceramics, metals, plastics, and more.
Generally, it provides a flexible and strong bond that can withstand impact, stress, and vibration, making it ideal for various types of materials and applications.
Also, it’s weather-resistant, protecting the bond against heavy rain, UV rays, snow, and other environmental damage.
It has remarkable gap-filling properties, allowing it to fill gaps in joints and bond irregular or uneven surfaces. I would recommend it for applications where a tight fit is not possible.
Once it has cured, you can sand and paint it over, providing a smooth finish on the bond.
PVA Glue
PVA (Polyvinyl Acetate) is the most popular and versatile option for your various woodworking projects. It is commonly used in joining solid wood, MDF, plywood, and other porous materials.
It can provide a good bond strength. Also, it’s easy to apply and dries clear that can be sanded and painted over efficiently.
The advantage of PVA over other wood glue is its cheaper price and wide availability, making it a top choice for general household repairs and common woodworking tasks.
Although it’s not weather-resistant, so it’s not suitable for your projects that are exposed to damp or humid environments. Also, it will not provide durable bond strength for high-stress and load-bearing applications.
Hide Glue
It is also called liquid hide glue or animal glue, which is a traditional adhesive made from animal collagen, mainly from rabbits or cows.
It has been used in woodworking for centuries and is still considered one of the strongest wood glues for professional woodworkers who prefer the traditional joinery method.
You can also opt for hide glue if you’re working on a reproduction or restoration project that requires you to use a traditional or historic approach since it can give a more authentic result.
This is also beneficial for projects that require adjustments or repairs without damaging the wood.
Essentially, hide glue has unique properties, allowing you to create reversible bonds. With this, you can easily disassemble and repair the wood pieces if needed.
However, using hide glue can be more tedious and requires a lot of work as it needs heating and should be applied when still warm.
Also, it can only work for a shorter time, with a maximum of 18 months. Otherwise, the bond will no longer be durable and effective.
Old Brown Hide Glue
Old brown glue is a type of hide glue that is popular for its dark brown color, which can completely hide glue lines and blend with the natural wood color. Try this if you want to achieve a more discreet bond.
Like hide glue, old brown glue offers reversible bonding, so it gives you more room for mistakes as you can easily redo the process without damaging the wood. Its application process is also like the hide glue where heating is required.
Although old brown glue requires more skill and experience to work with compared to modern adhesives, it gives a more aesthetically appealing bond.
But you must keep in mind that it cannot hold the bond for a longer period and can only last for less than two years.
Homemade Hide Glue
For many professional woodworkers, making their own wood glue is the best way to achieve the strongest and most durable bond. This allows them to customize the adhesive to their specific project reequipment.
If you are willing to invest more effort and you have experience with making homemade adhesives, it can be a better option for your project.
To make your own hide glue, you must simmer animal hides or bones for several hours to extract the collagen. Boil the animal bones until the liquid becomes translucent.
Strain out the hide remnants, then continue boiling the liquid until it becomes thick. You must allow the liquid to cool down and test its stickiness by touching the liquid.
Once it’s sticky enough, you must strain the liquid using a cheesecloth and let it set and becomes rubbery. Gently squeeze it and break it into small chunks.
Put it inside an air-tight container to maintain its adhesive quality. You can then reheat the amount you need for your project and apply the liquid while warm.
Formula and Brand
Essentially, the formula of the wood glue determines its adhesive [1] properties, such as strength, durability, drying time, and flexibility. These can directly impact the durability and performance of the bond.
Since your project may require specific adhesive properties, it is necessary that you choose a glue formula that matches your project needs. For instance, for exterior applications, you may need a stronger formula like epoxy glue.
On the other hand, if you need a quick turnaround time, I suggest going for a fast-drying formula like cyanoacrylate glue.
Meanwhile, it is important to choose only a high-quality wood glue product for your projects. Select a wood glue from a reputable brand that only produces reliable and quality products.
Additionally, you can check online reviews, woodworking forums, and recommendations from professional woodworkers.
Price
If you’re working within a budget, one of the most important factors you must consider when buying wood glue is the price.
Therefore, it is necessary to compare prices and consider the cost per volume or quantity. You must remember that larger containers may have a higher upfront cost but could be more cost-effective in the long run, especially if you have a larger project.
Also, you must buy wood glue that offers the right adhesive properties for your project. For example, cheaper wood glues may have lower bond strength or longer curing times, which can affect the overall quality and durability of your project.
However, for your simple or temporary projects, a lower-priced wood glue may be sufficient. While for heavy-duty or long-term applications, I highly recommend you invest in higher-quality wood glue to ensure a stronger and more durable bond.
FAQ
Which Titebond glue is strongest?
The strongest Titebond glue is the Titebond III Ultimate Wood Glue. It provides a strong and durable bond since it’s highly resistant to heat, water, humidity, moisture, mold, and mildew. It’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications and can hold the bond for a longer time.
What is the shelf life of wood glues?
The shelf life of wood glues depends on the type of glue, formula, and brand. Most glue can only sustain their binding strength for one year. But if stored properly, some wood glues last for a maximum of 24 months.
Are strong glues for wood food safe?
Yes, some strong glues like Titebond are food safe. They do not produce toxic fumes and no harmful chemicals. These products have been granted FDA approval for safe use with food. To make sure that your wood glue is food safe, always read the label and look for FDA approval.
How strong are wood glues?
Wood glues typically have higher strength than wood itself. Although wood joints bonded with glue may hold for a while, without additional reinforcement, such as nails, the wood structure may eventually fail, and the joint could separate. Therefore, to make the bond stronger, it should be supported with fasteners.
Can I apply or mix stain with strong glues for wood?
Yes, you can apply stain over strong glue. Although some wood glues do not absorb stains well, most brands produce wood glues formulated to be stained over, resulting in a smoother, more even, and aesthetically appealing wood surface.
My Top Pick For a Strong Glue for Wood:
Elmer's E7330 Wood Glue Max
After all my years in woodworking and trying out nearly every wood glue on the shelves, I have to give a nod to Elmer’s E7330 Wood Glue Max as the strongest wood glue, capable of withstanding heavy loads, impacts, and high stress.
It’s formulated for outdoor applications as it’s highly resistant to weather variations and harsh elements. Its exceptional durability ensures the preservation of the structural integrity of the wood, making it a reliable choice for your woodworking projects.
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.
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