Gluing wood is one of the most common methods of producing or repairing wood joints. Whether in furniture construction, DIY projects or professional craftsmanship. The right gluing technique is crucial for stable and long-lasting results.

In this guide, you will learn everything you need to know about wood adhesives and how to use them. We show you which types of adhesive are available. We also explain how to prepare the surfaces correctly and what you need to bear in mind during application. Your next project is guaranteed to be a success.

Basics of wood gluing

Gluing wood has many advantages. It enables invisible joints, requires no additional fasteners and can be applied quickly and easily. Compared to other methods such as screws or nails, it has the advantage that the wood structure is weakened less.

However, there are also disadvantages. These include the need for a sometimes long drying time and the dependence on the correct preparation of the gluing surface. Common mistakes, such as using the wrong adhesive or insufficient pressing time, can affect the stability of the joint. Careful selection of the right adhesive and correct application are therefore essential for a long-lasting result.

Types of wood adhesives and their areas of application

PVA-glue

PVA glue, also known as white glue, is one of the most commonly used wood adhesives. It is ideal for indoor use and reliably bonds wood-based materials and solid wood. The glue is easy to handle and is often used for furniture making and handicrafts.

Polyurethane adhesives

Polyurethane adhesive is particularly resistant to moisture and therefore ideal for outdoor use. It offers strong adhesion and remains stable even with fluctuations in temperature and humidity.

Epoxidharz

Epoxy resin offers a strong and durable bond, but is more expensive and more complex to use. It is ideal for demanding projects such as boat building or model making.

Superglue

Superglue is also known as cyanoacrylate glue. Gluing wood with superglue is perfect for small, quick repairs. It is less suitable for large-scale applications.

Contact adhesive and silicone adhesive

Contact adhesives and silicone adhesives have specific areas of application. They offer alternative solutions depending on the requirements, such as when bonding wood to smooth surfaces.

Assembly adhesive

Gluing wood with assembly adhesives works well on smooth surfaces. They are particularly useful for repairs and smaller projects as they harden quickly and provide a strong bond.

These BLUFIXX adhesives are suitable for wood

BLUFIXX xpress superglue

BLUFIXX xpress instant adhesive on wood is perfect for bonding, filling or sealing indoors and outdoors.

BLUFIXX-Pro set plastic, wood

The light-curing PW repair gel is easy to apply and cures with the LED lamp. Perfect for quick and permanent repairs to plastic and wood.

Do you have scratches or dents in your dining table, your kitchen fronts, your plastic window frames or a broken children’s play figure? No longer a problem! Simply use the BLUFIXX-Pro set to repair plastic and wood quickly and permanently.

Two-component adhesive – wood

The 2-component methoxyethyl cyanoacrylate-based adhesive offers the best adhesive properties on many different materials. These include wood, paper, cardboard, leather and textiles. It is thixotropic, drip-free, extremely flexible and mechanically workable.

With the two-component adhesive – wood, overhead and vertical applications are also possible. Other properties include good media resistance, no blooming or odor, transparent bonding of PMMA and freedom from marking.

Suitable adhesive for various wood joints

• Gluing wood to wood or gluing wood together is the most common application. Wood glue is often the best choice here, as it can absorb shear forces and shear stresses.
• PVA glue is particularly suitable for indoor joints, while PU glue is preferable for outdoor use.
• An assembly adhesive is ideal for joining wood with other materials such as metal, glass or plastic.

Preparation of wooden surfaces

Clean the bonding surface thoroughly. It should be free of dust and grease. A slightly damp cloth is suitable for this.

Avoid using cleaning agents with solvents, as these can impair the adhesive effect. Then roughen the surface slightly to improve adhesion.

Make sure the wood is completely dry before applying the adhesive. Thorough preparation of the surface is crucial for a strong and durable bond.

Step-by-step instructions for gluing wood

Step 1: Planning and preparation

Select the right wood glue for your project. Make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials to hand. This includes screw clamps, a damp cloth, sandpaper and possibly wood putty. Plan the work process and make sure you have enough time for the individual steps.

Step 2: Applying the adhesive

Apply the adhesive evenly to the cleaned and roughened surfaces. Ensure that there are no air bubbles and that the adhesive is applied in a thin, even layer. Excess adhesive can be easily removed later.

Step 3: Assembling the parts

Join the parts to be glued together immediately after applying the adhesive. Align the parts correctly and apply even pressure. Use screw clamps to hold the parts firmly together. Ensure that the parts do not slip during the curing process.

Step 4: Curing

Allow the glued area to cure for a sufficient period of time. The exact drying time depends on the adhesive used and can vary between 20 minutes and several hours. It can take several days for complete curing.

Step 5: Post-processing

Remove excess adhesive with a damp cloth before it is completely dry. If necessary, sand the glued area to obtain a smooth surface. If you have used wood putty, you can also sand it after drying and match the color.

Common misunderstandings and correct procedure

Many people think that the adhesive is fully loadable immediately after drying. This is a misunderstanding. The adhesive only reaches its final strength after a few days, when the moisture has completely evaporated. Therefore, leave the screw clamps in place for as long as possible to ensure the stability of the joint.

Precise adherence to the drying times is crucial for the long-term durability of the adhesive bond. Check the drying progress regularly and ensure that the joint is not stressed prematurely.

Post-processing: The perfect finish

After gluing, it is important to remove excess adhesive and sand the surface if necessary. Also clean the glue tube to prevent the lid from sticking.

This ensures that the adhesive can be used again without any problems the next time it is used. A clean and tidy finish ensures a professional result and an attractive appearance. If necessary, you can varnish or glaze the surface after sanding. This protects the wood and makes the joint invisible.

Take a look at our detailed instructions and videos for more practical tips and tricks. Visit our product pages to find the right adhesive for your project. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. We hope this guide will help you to successfully complete your wood gluing projects.

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