Construction Adhesive
Ultimate Construction Adhesive for Strength, Flexibility and Waterproof Bonds
Construction adhesives are essential for strong and durable bonding in various building and DIY projects. They join different materials, providing reliability and structural integrity. With versatility across surfaces like wood, metal, concrete, and plastics, construction adhesives offer secure bonding, gap filling, and insulation.
These adhesives excel in challenging conditions, resisting moisture, extreme temperatures, and high humidity. Their suitability for both interior and exterior use adds to their reliability.
This guide explores construction adhesives, including types, applications, and best practices. Common questions are addressed, and recommendations for top-rated brands are provided. Whether you’re a professional or DIY enthusiast, understanding construction adhesives empowers you to make informed choices and achieve exceptional results in your projects.
What are construction adhesives?
Construction adhesive, also known as construction glue or construction sealant, is a versatile adhesive product specifically formulated for bonding various construction materials together. It is designed to provide a strong and durable bond that can withstand the rigors of construction and DIY projects.
The purpose of construction adhesive is to join different materials, such as wood, metal, concrete, stone, ceramics, plastics, and more. It creates a permanent bond that enhances the structural integrity of the assembled components. Construction adhesive is commonly used in a wide range of applications, including carpentry, woodworking, flooring installation, wall paneling, tile setting, and general construction projects.
Types of construction adhesive
There are various types of construction adhesives available, each designed for specific purposes and materials. Understanding the different types can help you choose the right adhesive for your construction project. Here are some common types:
- Polymer & Polyurethane Construction Adhesive:
- Properties: This adhesive cures by reacting with moisture, forming a strong and flexible bond. It has excellent resistance to water, heat, and chemicals.
- Recommended Uses: Ideal for bonding a wide range of materials, including wood, metal, concrete, and plastics. Suitable for both interior and exterior applications.
- Epoxy Construction Adhesive:
- Properties: Epoxy adhesives consist of two components that need to be mixed before application. They cure to form a rigid and high-strength bond with excellent resistance to chemicals, temperature, and impact.
- Recommended Uses: Well-suited for bonding materials like metal, ceramics, and glass. It is commonly used in structural applications, such as anchoring bolts and repairing concrete.
- Silicone Construction Adhesive:
- Properties: Silicone adhesives are flexible, durable, and resistant to moisture, temperature extremes, and UV radiation. They maintain their elasticity over time.
- Recommended Uses: Excellent for sealing and bonding materials that require flexibility, such as glass, tile, and certain plastics. Commonly used in bathroom and kitchen applications.
- Acrylic Construction Adhesive:
- Properties: Acrylic adhesives offer fast curing, good bonding strength, and resistance to weathering. They are water-based and have low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) content.
- Recommended Uses: Suitable for bonding porous materials like wood, drywall, and foam. Widely used for general construction and woodworking projects.
- Construction Adhesive Tape:
- Properties: Adhesive tapes provide instant adhesion and are easy to use. They come in various forms, such as double-sided tapes and foam tapes.
- Recommended Uses: Ideal for mounting objects, securing surfaces, and joining lightweight materials. Commonly used for temporary installations and quick fixes.
Polymer, polyurethane, epoxy, silicone, and acrylic construction adhesives offer different properties and are suitable for various applications. Polymer and polyurethane adhesives are versatile and widely used. Epoxy adhesives provide high strength. Silicone adhesives offer flexibility and resistance to moisture. Acrylic adhesives are suitable for porous materials. Construction adhesive tapes provide instant adhesion for quick and temporary solutions.
Benefits of using the correct construction adhesive
Using construction adhesive offers several important benefits in construction and DIY applications:
- Strong and durable bond: Construction adhesive creates a powerful bond that enhances the strength and longevity of the assembled materials, ensuring a reliable and long-lasting result.
- Versatile applications: Construction adhesive can be used for bonding a variety of materials, making it a versatile choice for different projects. It is suitable for both interior and exterior applications.
- Gap-filling properties: Construction adhesive has the ability to fill small gaps and irregularities between materials, improving the overall stability and appearance of the assembly.
- Enhanced structural integrity: By providing additional reinforcement, construction adhesive helps to distribute stress and load across the bonded surfaces, enhancing the structural integrity of the construction.
- Resistance to environmental factors: Many construction adhesives are designed to withstand exposure to moisture, extreme temperatures, and other environmental factors, ensuring reliable performance in challenging conditions.
Applications
Construction adhesive is a versatile product that finds extensive use in a wide range of construction and DIY projects. Its strong bonding properties and ability to adhere to various materials make it an essential tool for many applications. Here are some common uses:
- Woodworking: Construction adhesive is commonly used in woodworking projects, such as bonding panels, laminates, molding, and trim. It provides a secure bond and eliminates the need for mechanical fasteners in certain applications.
- Flooring Installation: Construction adhesive is widely used in flooring projects to adhere hardwood, laminate, vinyl, and tile flooring to subfloors. It ensures a strong bond that withstands heavy foot traffic and prevents floor movement.
- Wall Paneling: Construction adhesive is applied to panels and then attached to walls to create a secure and seamless finish. It eliminates the need for visible fasteners, enhancing the aesthetics of the wall.
- Tile Setting: Construction adhesive is used in tile installations to bond tiles to substrates like cement boards or drywall. It provides a reliable bond that withstands moisture, temperature changes, and tile movement.
- Construction and Repair: Construction adhesive is used for general construction and repair projects, such as bonding drywall, attaching fixtures, repairing cracks in concrete, or securing loose materials.
Choosing the Right Construction Adhesive
Selecting the appropriate construction adhesive is crucial for achieving successful bonding results in your projects. Consider the following factors when choosing a construction adhesive:
- Substrate Compatibility: Ensure that the adhesive is compatible with the materials you are bonding. Different adhesives are formulated for specific substrates like wood, metal, concrete, or plastics. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for substrate compatibility.
- Bonding Strength: Evaluate the required bonding strength for your application. Some projects may require high-strength adhesives, while others may need more flexible or temporary bonds. Consider the load-bearing capacity and stress requirements of the assembly.
- Drying Time: Assess the drying or curing time of the adhesive. This is particularly important when working on time-sensitive projects. Some adhesives have quick-drying properties, allowing for faster progress, while others require longer curing times for maximum strength.
- Environmental Considerations: Take into account the environmental conditions the adhesive will be exposed to. Consider factors like temperature extremes, moisture exposure, UV radiation, or chemical exposure. Ensure the adhesive you choose is suitable for the anticipated environment.
- Application Method: Consider the ease of application and the tools required. Some adhesives come in cartridges for use with caulking guns, while others may be dispensed directly from a squeeze bottle or require mixing. Choose an adhesive that aligns with your preferred application method and tools.
- Safety and Health: Be aware of any safety considerations, such as ventilation requirements, flammability, or toxicity. Follow proper safety guidelines and use protective equipment as recommended by the adhesive manufacturer.
- Longevity: Consider the expected lifespan of your project. Some adhesives offer long-term durability and resistance to aging factors like weathering, while others may be more suitable for temporary or short-term applications.
- Manufacturer’s Recommendations: Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines, technical data sheets, and application instructions for the specific adhesive you are considering. They provide valuable information on the adhesive’s performance characteristics and recommended uses.
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the right construction adhesive that matches the requirements of your project, ensuring a strong and reliable bond between the materials being joined.
Best Construction Adhesive
Many different manufacturers claim to have the best construction adhesive. However in reality, only one product can be the actual best product. The only way to find out which really is the best product is from independent construction adhesive strength tests. Adiseal is a waterproof, flexible & heavy duty product that will outperform competitor products. It provide a very high strength bond on many different materials. This article will also look at how to use construction adhesive and how to remove it as well. It will also explain how in an independent construction adhesive strength test, Adiseal blew away the competition.
Construction adhesive strength test
Ultimate Handyman conducted an independent test to determine what is the best construction adhesive. The results may surprise you: Adiseal blew away the competition and emerged as the clear winner. Nothing came anywhere close to Adiseal. Don’t just take our word for it – check out the video below to see the test in action.
Test method
- Cleaned the metal sheet thoroughly.
- Applied each adhesive to the hardwood.
- Firmly pressed the wood down onto the metal.
- Waited for each adhesive to cure.
- Used a hydraulic ram to break each construction adhesive bond.
- Measure at what pressure each bond broke at.
The best construction adhesive was Adiseal by far
When it came to adhesive strength, no other construction adhesive being tested came close to the best product, Adiseal. In fact, during Ultimate Handyman’s testing, Adiseal proved to be over three times stronger than the next best product. Its strength was so impressive that he had to abandon the test on it as the screws holding the metal sheet down started to rip out. Even the hydraulic ram seal broke, causing fluid leakage. Adiseal was simply too strong for the test rig to handle.
“That is actually unbelievable!”
Ultimate Handyman
Testimonials
What about other construction adhesives?
Other construction adhesives were not tested in this video as they had already been tested previously by Ultimate Handyman. In these previous tests, products from Soudal, Everbuild, Geocel & C-Tec CT1 were tested along with the old formula of Adiseal.
What is the best construction adhesive?
To claim to have the best construction adhesive is very easy but to prove it is another matter. Manufacturers can make very bold claims about their products, like 1 manufacturer saying their product is 360% stronger than competitor products. In reality some of these very bold claims are just manufacturers marketing hype. Is there any independent data to back up these claims?
The real way to find out what the best product is not to listen to manufacturers marketing claims but to check independent tests. In the independent test by Ultimate Handyman as shown above, Adiseal has proven to be the best construction adhesive.
The other way to find out what the best product is to test the product yourself. As we are are confident to back up our claims about our product, we are willing to provide a free tube of Adiseal adhesive & sealant to any trades person in the UK so that they can test it themselves. See the offer page for more details on how to get a free tube.
Adiseal strongest again in metal to metal strength test
In another heavy duty construction adhesive strength test between metal to metal, Adiseal was shown to be the strongest product again. In a similar way to the previous test, a hydraulic ram was used to break the adhesive bond. The pressure was then measured at which adhesive bond broke at. Just like the wood to metal adhesive strength test, Adiseal finished top again in the metal to metal adhesive strength test.
Applications & Benefits
Details of benefits
Strongest waterproof construction adhesive
Adiseal is also the strongest waterproof construction adhesive. It can be applied on dry, damp, wet surfaces and even underwater. When a product is going to be used in applications where there will be water, it also needs to resist mould. To find out just how well Adiseal resists mould growth we carried out several tests. Adiseal performed was the best performing product with the strongest mould resistance.
Clear construction adhesive in water
Adiseal Ultra Clear was put to the test again in a cup of water and was the best product yet again for staying clear. The other competing products turned white, but Adiseal Ultra Clear maintained its clarity.
Exterior uses
Adiseal is a waterproof construction adhesive sealant. This makes it the ideal exterior construction adhesive as well as for interior uses. An exterior construction adhesive also needs to be able to withstand different weather conditions.
Instant Grab
When it comes to heavy duty construction adhesives, high instant grab is a crucial feature. Adiseal boasts an impressive initial grab, whether on dry or wet surfaces but for even greater instant power, Adiseal Hi-Grab offers an even stronger hold. This can save valuable time, as there’s no need for temporary supports while the adhesive dries. Other products may require additional support to hold an item in place until the adhesive sets.
Gap Filling Adhesive
To ensure strong bonding, it’s important to have a construction adhesive with high gap fill for uneven surfaces. Adiseal offers high gap fill and doesn’t slump, making it ideal for overhead applications. Even on vertical surfaces, Adiseal remains in place without sliding down, providing a secure and reliable bond.
Over Paintable
Flexible Construction Adhesive
Unlike heavy duty construction adhesives that can produce a brittle bond and weaken over time due to vibration, contraction, and expansion, Adiseal is a flexible construction adhesive. This unique feature allows the adhesive bond to remain strong and flexible, even in changing temperatures and moisture conditions. This means that Adiseal provides a long-lasting, durable bond that won’t crack or break over time. In the video below, we demonstrate how Adiseal is able to soak up the impact of the hammer without the bond breaking.
Virtually Odourless
Unlike construction adhesives that contain solvents, Adiseal is free from solvents and isocyanates. This means that it does not emit harsh smells that require good ventilation to be used safely. Additionally, Adiseal is virtually odourless when applied, making it a more pleasant adhesive to work with.
Solvent Free
Solvent-based products can damage sensitive materials such as mirror backing and polystyrene. However, Adiseal is safe to use on these delicate materials as it is solvent-free. This makes it the ideal choice for projects where sensitive materials are involved.
No Shrinkage or Cracking
Another problem with solvent based product are they have less active ingredients. This makes the adhesive shrink and crack as the solvent needs to evaporate away for the adhesive to cure. This can pull the adhesive adhesive away from the surfaces that need bonding creating a weaker bond. As Adiseal does not contain solvents, it does not shrink or crack. There is more active product in the tube and provides a much stronger bond than other construction adhesives.
Sometimes using cheaper products end up costing more as once they fail they need replacing. For a trades person, this can be an issue. Time is money and they have a reputation to keep up of good quality work.
EC1 Plus certified
Adiseal has the lowest VOC and has been certified the top certification, EC1 Plus.
ISEGA Certified
Not all construction adhesives are suitable for use in food preparation areas. Adiseal is suitable and has been certified ISEGA to show it’s suitable for use in kitchens and other food preparation areas.
How to use construction adhesive
How to use construction adhesive
- Prepare the Surfaces
Ensure that both the surfaces you plan to bond with the construction adhesive are clean, dry, and free from any contaminants such as dust, grease, or loose particles. Remove any old adhesive or finishes from the surfaces if necessary.
- Cut the Cartridge
If you are using a cartridge-based construction adhesive, use a utility knife to cut off the tip of the cartridge at a 45-degree angle. The size of the opening will depend on the desired bead size and the project requirements.
- Load the Cartridge
Insert the cartridge into a caulking gun or adhesive applicator tool. Make sure it is securely fitted and ready for dispensing.
- Apply the Adhesive
Squeeze the trigger of the caulking gun or adhesive applicator to start applying the adhesive in a continuous bead along the surface. Apply the adhesive evenly and with consistent pressure. Depending on the project, you may apply the adhesive in a zigzag or S-shaped pattern.
- Press Surfaces Together
Immediately after applying the adhesive, press the wood and metal surfaces firmly together. Apply even pressure to ensure good contact between the adhesive and both surfaces. Consider using clamps or other means to hold the surfaces in place while the adhesive cures, if necessary.
- Clean Excess Adhesive
Use a clean cloth or a putty knife to remove any excess adhesive that may have squeezed out from the bond line. It is easier to clean up the adhesive before it cures completely. Follow the adhesive manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning recommendations.
- Curing Time
Allow the construction adhesive to cure as per the manufacturer’s instructions. The curing time can vary depending on factors such as temperature, humidity, and the specific adhesive used. Avoid subjecting the bonded assembly to stress or load until the adhesive has fully cured.
- Finishing Touches
Once the adhesive has fully cured, you can proceed with any necessary finishing touches or further assembly steps as required for your specific project.
Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines provided with the construction adhesive you are using. Each adhesive product may have specific instructions and recommendations for optimal performance and safety.
Safety
When using a construction adhesive, it is important to be aware of the safety implications and take necessary precautions. Here are some key safety considerations:
- Read the product instructions: Carefully read and understand the manufacturer’s instructions, warnings, and safety data sheets (SDS) provided with the construction adhesive. Follow the recommended guidelines for proper handling, application, and storage.
- Ventilation: Ensure that the working area is well-ventilated to minimize the inhalation of fumes or vapors. Open windows or use exhaust fans to improve air circulation. If working in an enclosed space, consider wearing a respirator or mask recommended for chemical fumes.
- Skin and eye protection: Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and safety glasses, to protect your skin and eyes from contact with the adhesive. Some adhesives can cause skin irritation or be harmful if they come into contact with the eyes.
- Avoid ingestion: Construction adhesives are not meant to be ingested. Keep them away from food, drinks, and your mouth. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the adhesive to avoid accidental ingestion.
- Fire safety: Many construction adhesives are flammable or combustible. Keep them away from open flames, sparks, or sources of ignition. Follow proper fire safety precautions in the working area.
- Storage and disposal: Store construction adhesives in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Keep them out of reach of children and pets. Follow local regulations for proper disposal of adhesive containers or unused products.
- Use in well-maintained condition: Ensure that the construction adhesive is in good condition before use. Check the expiry date and inspect the packaging for any signs of damage or leakage. Do not use if the product appears compromised.
- Cleanup: Clean up any spills or excess adhesive immediately using appropriate methods recommended by the manufacturer. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents that may react with the adhesive.
If you have any specific safety concerns or questions, it is advisable to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines or seek professional advice.
Construction Adhesive Dry Time
Adiseal construction adhesive dry time can take 24 to 48 hours to fully cure. This dry time can increase in colder temperatures. If the items starts to move away, then temporary supports may be required to hold the items in place until the dry time is complete. Adiseal requires moisture for it to cure which it normally gets from moisture in the air. If the product is being used between 2 non porous materials then this moisture might not be able to reach the middle area. This will cause the edge of the adhesive to cure and leave the middle uncured. It is recommended to spray a little amount of water on a surface when using between 2 non porous materials before applying the adhesive and also give it extra time for it to cure.
How to remove construction adhesive
Certain chemical products can deactivate some construction adhesives, but Adiseal products cannot be removed chemically. Instead, mechanical methods are required to remove cured Adiseal. If the adhesive can be accessed, a sharp tool like a knife can be used to cut it away. In cases where access is limited, a sharp wire like a clay cutting wire can be used to cut through the adhesive.
Construction adhesive for concrete
Adiseal can also be used as a construction adhesive for concrete. Unlike some other products, Adiseal does not require the concrete to be sealed first. This is because concrete is porous and Adiseal has the ability to bond to the surface without the need for a primer. We have tested this by bonding various items to a concrete block with Adiseal and achieved a strong bond. All that is needed is to ensure that both surfaces are thoroughly clean before applying the adhesive.
On the concrete demo block, no primer was used to seal it. It was simply cleaned thoroughly by brushing it. A fine brush like a painting brush helps remove fine dust.
Data Sheets
Colours
It can also be manufactured in any RAL colour.
Free tube offer
We’re giving away a free tube of Adiseal White to any trades person. See offer page for more details.
Construction adhesive UK
To purchase Adiseal construction adhesive in UK, please contact us to find your nearest stockist. If you’re located outside of the UK, you can purchase Adiseal construction adhesive UK from the distributor in your country. In case there is no distributor in your country, you can visit www.guglue.com, which ships worldwide.
Frequently asked questions about construction adhesive
In an independent test, Adiseal was found to be the best construction adhesive. It was a lot stronger than all the other products that were tested. The results of the test are as follows:
Max pressure when adhesive bond broke (psi)
Adiseal: 3123+
SupaBond: 1115
Tec 7: 1016
HB42: 942
Loctite PL Premium: 873
Gorilla Grab Adhesive: 862
Bond It PU18: 582
Bond It Save Nails: 411
Construction adhesive is a type of adhesive specifically designed for bonding various construction materials, such as wood, metal, concrete, and drywall. It is known for its high strength, durability, and versatility.
Construction adhesives work by creating a strong bond between two surfaces. They typically have a high initial grab and provide a durable, long-lasting bond once cured.
When selecting a construction adhesive, consider factors such as the materials being bonded, the desired strength and flexibility of the bond, environmental conditions, and specific application requirements. Refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations or consult with a professional for guidance.
Yes, there are construction adhesives specifically designed for outdoor use. These adhesives are formulated to withstand exposure to moisture, temperature variations, and other environmental factors.
Construction adhesives can bond a wide range of materials, including wood, metal, concrete, stone, ceramic, glass, drywall, and many plastics. However, the compatibility of the adhesive may vary, so it’s important to check the product specifications or consult the manufacturer for specific recommendations.
Construction adhesives are specifically formulated for heavy-duty applications and bonding construction materials. They are designed to withstand high loads, temperature variations, and environmental factors, making them more suitable for demanding projects compared to general-purpose adhesives.
Yes, many construction adhesives offer water resistance or waterproof properties. They can be used in applications where moisture exposure is expected, such as in bathrooms, kitchens, or outdoor projects. However, it’s important to check the product specifications or consult the manufacturer to ensure the adhesive’s specific level of water resistance.
The curing time of construction adhesives can vary depending on factors such as temperature, humidity, and the specific adhesive formulation. It can range from a few hours to several days. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended curing time for the specific adhesive you are using.
Suhail Matadar
Suhail Matadar has extensive experience in the construction industry as an electrician, involved in installing, inspecting, and testing electrical systems in various projects. He excelled in sales, working for a major UK wholesaler, selling construction products to professionals and the DIY market. Suhail's background includes working at a leading home emergency repair company dealing with trades people. With a BEng (Hons) degree in Electronic Engineering, Suhail has worked with PLCs in the nuclear fuel manufacturing industry. During his studies, he gained practical experience at a chemical manufacturing company known for producing award-winning cleaning, hygiene, and livestock protection products for over a century. Currently, Suhail runs a global business specialising in supplying, researching, testing, and distributing chemical construction products like adhesives and sealants.