You’ve probably heard of polyurethane glue, but what’s it used for, exactly? In this quick guide to polyurethane use, you’ll learn all about the properties and application of this handy adhesive.
With such a variety of glues on the market, it can be hard to distinguish between them, and to know which one to pick. Perhaps you’ve considered polyurethane glue, but you’re not sure whether it’s a good fit for your DIY project. Compared to other adhesives, it might seem like more of a specialist product.
In fact, polyurethane adhesive (also known as PU adhesive) is very simple to use and has a wide range of applications. It’s not just for professionals!
So, here’s what you need to know.
Polyurethane glue is based on the versatile polymer known as polyurethane. Because it contains this material, PU adhesive has many useful properties, including quick cure time. It’s also water-resistant and can withstand high temperatures.
Polyurethane adhesive comes in a range of different formats and packaging.
- Some polyurethane glues are 1-component adhesives. They’re excellent for gluing materials together and creating high-strength, long-lasting bonds.
- Other polyurethane glues are available in a 2-component format, consisting of a resin and a hardener. These adhesives can be used for gap-filling and creating smoother surfaces, as well as gluing materials together.
In addition, polyurethane is used in the following types of adhesives:
- Polyurethane foam/PU foam. Expanding foam is commonly used for insulation and for sealing window and door frames.
- Polyurethane paste. Polyurethane wood glue is used for gluing down boards or making heavy-duty repairs.
- Polyurethane sealant. This flexible construction sealant can be used for insulating joints and areas exposed to moisture.
- Polyurethane mounting adhesive. The high strength of polyurethane makes it ideal for attaching heavy objects to surfaces, including more challenging materials such as metal and plastic.
Polyurethane glue can come in handy for filling in gaps and cracks or gluing wooden surfaces together. In this section, we’ll show you how to do both kinds of jobs using a two-component polyurethane resin.
Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions before you start, and make sure you take the usual safety precautions. Work in a well-ventilated space, and ideally wear gloves.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- a polyurethane glue (two-part resin)
- a disposable container
- a disposable mixing tool such as a wooden stick
- a spatula
- a clamp
Next, here’s how to use polyurethane adhesive to fill in gaps or glue parts together.
- Prepare the materials. The surfaces you’re about to glue should be completely clean and dry.
- Prepare the polyurethane glue. Two-part adhesives need to be mixed before they can be used. Dispense equal amounts of the resin and hardener into the container. Then mix thoroughly with the tool to create a smooth paste.
- To fill in a hole or gap: Apply the mixed adhesive with the spatula, pressing it into the gap. Leave it to dry.
- To glue parts together: Apply a small amount of mixed adhesive to both surfaces, then press them together. Keep them held in place for about three hours using a clamp or heavy object. Leave to dry for about 24 hours, to give the glue time to reach full strength.
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