The best joining is accomplished with
adhesives, in conjunction with screws, nails, or other fasteners. A few of the
more common types include:
Polyvinyl
(carpenter's wood glue).
This is a white, creamy glue, usually
available in convenient plastic bottles. Mainly used for furniture, craft, or
woodworking projects, polyvinyl dries clear, won't stain and sets in about an hour,
with full strength being attained in around 24 hours. Polyvinyl is vulnerable to
moisture, so should not be used in damp environments.
 Resorcinol and
formaldehyde.
These are mixed just prior to using, can be used two to
four hours after mixing.
Both the resin (powdered resorcinol) and the powdered formaldehyde that you mix
with water are brown and will stain light wood. Follow the manufacturer's
instructions carefully as quantities of the components are critical for a good
bond.
Contact cements.
These
are used to bond veneers or to bond plastic laminates to wood for table tops and
counters. Coat both surfaces thinly and allow to dry completely before bonding.
Coated surfaces bond instantly when brought together so care should be taken to
align the surfaces perfectly before pressing together. The fumes given off from
most contacts are dangerous so use in a well-ventilated area away from naked
flame.
Two Part Epoxy.
Epoxy
is a unique adhesive in that it produces a strength greater than the material it bonds. It
resists almost anything from water to solvents. Epoxy can be used to fill
cavities that would otherwise be difficult to bond. Use it in warm temperatures but read the manufacturer's instructions
carefully, since drying times vary and mixing the resin and hardener must be
exact.
Tips on Bonding
-
With the exception of epoxy, too much
adhesive will weaken the hold of the materials you are bonding.
-
Rough up smooth surfaces slightly before
applying adhesives so they will grip more securely.
-
Apply a thin coat of glue, clamp
securely, and allow to dry the recommended amount of time.
-
Wipe away excess glue immediately after
clamping.
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