Glue FAQs Part 2

Wood glue is perhaps the most commonly used product in our shops. Because you use it on most projects, you probably have some questions about how to get the best value out of it, and what are some of the do’s, don’ts and urban legends about PVA wood glue.

This is part 2 of George’s discussion with Bob Behnke, an adhesives expert from Franklin International (makers of Titebond and other woodworking adhesive products).

Some of the topics that George and Bob discussed include:

Why not just use waterproof glue for everything? The price difference doesn’t seem to be that great, so are there any downsides to just using a waterproof glue such as Titebond 3 for all of my projects?

How to disassemble joints that were made with PVA wood glue? If I need to make a repair, or want to make some change to my design that requires disassembly.

Can a CA glue joint be separated? Will heat or steam or other tricks work to separate a joint that has been formed using CA glue?

How long before gluing can I joint the wood edges? Can I run all of my strips through the jointer on Monday, and assemble panels from those strips all week? All month?

Glue on one surface or both surfaces? Do I need to apply glue on both wood surfaces or can I just apply to one?

What’s the best type of glue to use for bent laminations? Does it make a difference in strength, appearance, or spring-back?

Which glues are FDA approved for food contact? Is any glue safe for food contact after it cures?

Understanding the various attributes of wood glue is important to help you build your projects with confidence. Check out some of the project videos and articles that WWGOA has to offer.