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Stick metal to glass fast!

How to glue glass to metal: 3 compatible adhesives for the job

6 min read

Wondering how to glue glass to metal? Read on and learn the top three adhesives for these non-absorbent surfaces, and how to use them.

In this article

What’s the best adhesive for glass to metal

Metal and glass are two notoriously difficult materials to glue. But rest assured, there’s a way to complete the task. Whether it’s for small ornaments, or larger items like furniture, the right adhesive does exist!

How to stick metal to glass: rigid hold – light projects

Required materials

For gluing glass to metal on small job like decorations, ornaments or picture frames, a dab of super glue will do the trick. For the best results, grab Super Glue Liquid. This diverse adhesive provides a ridged hold on non-porous surfaces like metal and glass. Its applicator provides precise single drop dosage, leaving the adhesive exactly where you want it.

How to glue glass to metal: flexible hold

For increased strength with a flexible hold, reach for Pattex Extreme Repair All Purpose Glue. This adhesive packs a punch with gap-filling holding power and a vibration-resistant grip on materials both indoors and out.

How to glue metal to glass: rigid hold – heavy projects

For permanent repairs on larger surfaces like indoor and outdoor furniture, we recommend a rigid epoxy like Pattex Power Epoxy Clear. This epoxy is water and chemical resistant, gap filling and creates a high-strength, crystal clear bond in just a few minutes. Once dry, it can be sanded, painted and drilled. 

A hand holds a metal hinge on a glass surface.
Not every adhesive is suitable for permanently and securely gluing glass to metal – find out which one is right for your project

Expert Tip

How to glue metal to glass with gel adhesive

Applying super glue is the same as applying a gel adhesive, with one exception. Most super glues come in a liquid formulation and aren’t appropriate for gap filling. Whereas gel super glues work to fill minor gaps in surfaces. Choose the right formulation to fit your needs. 

Working with Pattex Super Glue Ultra Gel is fast, simple and can be used as a gap filler or normal surface adhesive. Here’s how to glue metal to glass with this flexible adhesive.

  1. Clean and dry the surfaces well.
  2. Pre-fit the parts to check the fit and plan the adhesive placement.
  3. Apply Pattex Super Ultra Gel.

    For transparent bonding
    apply a small amount of adhesive film on one of the surfaces.

    For filling gaps apply a thick layer to fill gaps up to 5mm max.

  4. Press the surfaces together, fix or clam the items for 1-3 hours. Cure times depend on application method, check product instructions for specific times.
  5. Clean up the surrounding area by removing wet adhesive with thinner, alcohol or wash bencene immediately. Remove cured adhesive mechanically. 

How to glue glass to metal with epoxy

Don’t be intimidated by the strength of epoxy, application is simple with the right know-how. Here’s how to glue glass to metal with Pattex Power Epoxy Clear.

  1. Gather materials. You need a small disposable surface for mixing, a disposable stick for mixing and application, a clamp and gloves.
  2. Clean and dry the surfaces. Wash the metal and glass with soap and water, then rinse and dry.
  3. Pre-fit the parts to check the fit and plan the adhesive placement.
  4. Open the epoxy. Remove the plug and cut the tips of the syringe. Turn the syringe upside down and pull back the plunger so the air bubbles rise up. Then press the plunger to release the air.
  5. Dispense equal parts of the resin and hardener onto a disposable surface.
  6. Mix thoroughly for 1 minute.
  7. Replace the caps onto the correct syringes.
  8. Apply a small amount of the mixed epoxy to both surfaces and press together immediately.
  9. Clamp to secure the parts.
  10. Wait for the epoxy to set. The object can be handled 10 minutes after application, and the epoxy will be fully cured in 24 hours.
  11. Clean up. Immediately remove excess epoxy with acetone or Tangit Cleaner. Once the adhesive has cured, carefully remove it with a sharp blade. 
Close-up of a corner of a wooden crate with glass door and metal hinges.
You can bond metal to glass with super glues, gel adhesives or epoxy, depending on whether you have light or heavy, small or large surfaces to bond

Cure times vary depending on the surrounding temperature. Warmer temperatures will speed up the cure time, while cold weather will slow it down.

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