Knowing which construction glue to use is critical, whether you’re working on complex woodworking projects or a simple do-it-yourself project.
You need waterproof wood glues when constructing outdoor furniture or other exterior applications. Polyurethane-based wood glue is the best waterproof wood glue.
It bonds so excellently that clamps and fixings are unnecessary. Also, it is water-resistant and durable. Other waterproof wood glues exist.
I am a DIY enthusiast and have spent hours researching and testing different wood glues. I’ve created a comprehensive list of the best wood glues to help you pick a glue ideal for your project.
Our Top Picks
Best Waterproof Wood Glue
- Gorilla Ultimate Waterproof Wood Glue – Best Waterproof Wood Glue
- Everbuild 502 Waterproof PVA Adhesive – Strongest Waterproof Glue
- Elmer’s E7503 8-Ounce ProBond Advanced – Best Wood Glue for Outdoor Use
- B Weld Pro Size ClearWeld 5 Minute Set Epoxy – Best Water-resistant Epoxy Glue
- Titebond 5064 Original Wood Glue – Best Glue for Wood Furniture
- Krazy Glue Home & Office Brush-On Super Glue – Best Wood Glue for Crafts
- STARBOND EM-02 Super Fast Thin, Instant CA – Best Weather-resistant Glue
- UniBond 1963625 Heavy-Duty – Best Water-resistant Glue for Split Wood
Is Wood Glue Waterproof?
Most wood glues have varying water-resistant levels. However, polyurethane wood and water-resistant polyvinyl acetate ( PVA) glues are completely waterproof. These wood glues have enhanced moisture tolerance, resist mildew, and their adhesive strength is second to none.
Read also: Is Minwax polyurethane waterproof?
Best Waterproof Glue for Wood Reviews
1. Best waterproof wood glue – Gorilla Ultimate Waterproof Wood Glue
- High strength and versatility
- Dries 2x faster than Original Gorilla Glue
- Dries white and is 100% waterproof
Gorilla wood glue is the perfect choice when tackling outdoor projects like putting together a pet house or repairing exterior furniture.
It is completely waterproof, so I can be confident that my outdoor furniture won’t fall apart due to exposure to water. The clamp time is fifteen minutes, giving me enough time to align my pieces or make adjustments if needed while clamping.
One of the best features of Gorilla glue is that it can be used even in temperatures as low as fifty degrees Fahrenheit and cures within twenty-four hours.
This makes it ideal for indoor and outdoor use, providing extra work time and excessive strength for interior projects. With Gorilla wood glue, I can trust that my projects will be durable and reliable, regardless of weather conditions or temperature.
In addition to being one of the strongest wood glue, it cleans up with soap and water. This glue is quite thick. It won’t run all over and cause a mess. So, it is much easier to work with as it stays where you put it. As a result, it spreads much faster.
What I Liked Most
- Reasonable clamp time
- Ideal for both indoor and outdoor projects
- Completely waterproof
What Could Be Improved
- Unsuitable for plastics like most glues
2. Strongest Waterproof Glue – Everbuild 502 All Purpose Waterproof PVA Based Wood Adhesive
- Brand :- Everbuild
- Manufacturer Code :- WOOD1
- Size :- 1 Litre
If you’re looking for the perfect adhesive for wood floors, this could be an ideal fit. I’ve found that although it has a thicker consistency compared to PVA, it dries firm and is waterproof. Plus, you can easily stain or paint over it since it’s available in liquid form.
One of the best things about this wood glue is that you can easily remove excess adhesive with a damp cloth without leaving any marks. It’s perfect for general woodwork joint sealing and adhesion.
If the glue dries noticeably on the wood and is visible, you can scrape it away with a suitable tool or cut it as needed. It’s also water-resistant, making it suitable for outdoor use, such as on flower garden stands, where it can hold frames in place for decades.
It’s important to keep an eye on the weather and work with the glue at the temperatures recommended by the manufacturer. Warmer days help the glue cure properly, as heat makes it runnier, while cold makes it thicker.
Overall, this glue gets the job done and is reasonably priced, making it a great option for wood flooring and other woodworking projects.
What I Liked Most
- Easy cleanup
- Excellent adhesive strength
- Waterproof PVA glue
What Could Be Improved
- Not great for veneering
3. Best wood glue for outdoor use – Elmer’s Products Elmer’s E7503 8-Ounce ProBond Advanced
- Professional-strength, all-purpose, and multi-surface glue
- Bonds metal, glass, ceramics, wood, stone, concrete, and more
- 100% weatherproof, non-toxic, no foam, and less mess
This product is perfect for you if you prefer multi-purpose glue to avoid wastage. With its distinctive orange cap, I’ve found that Elmer’s E7503 is more than just ordinary glue.
It’s an all-purpose, multi-surface glue with professional strength that is weatherproof, non-toxic and leaves no residue.
What’s truly impressive about this glue is how well it bonds to various surfaces, including stone, metal, concrete, glass, ceramics, wood, natural wood composites, and more.
It creates a strong bond that other adhesives can only dream of, making it the best glue I’ve ever used to join pieces.
The only downside is that it doesn’t dry clear, starting off as gray and drying to a lighter gray color. However, this glue is not runny and bonds quickly. Simply apply it to one side of the surface you need to bond, wait for two minutes, and then clamp the two sides together.
I recommend following the manufacturer’s instructions and allowing it to cure overnight. Unlike other glues, it doesn’t swell as much, and the dry time to set is excellent.
It’s simple to use and holds up really well, making it a go-to option for professional woodworkers and DIY enthusiasts like myself who need versatile, reliable glue for multiple surfaces.
What I Liked Most
- No residue
- It’s the best exterior glue for wood
- Bonds multiple surfaces
- Weatherproof
What Could Be Improved
- It doesn’t dry clear
4. Best Water-resistant Epoxy Glue – J-B Weld Pro Size ClearWeld 5 Minute Set Epoxy
- J-B WELD CLEARWELD PRO SIZE: Same formula as the J-B Weld ClearWeld, just in two 4oz tubes! ClearWeld is a clear, quick setting and multipurpose two part epoxy that provides a strong and lasting bond on surfaces including metal, tile, most plastics, ceramic, glass, wood and more!
- CURE AND SET TIME: After mixing at a ratio of 1:1, it takes 5 minutes to set and 1 hour to cure. ClearWeld is designed to cure with a clear, transparent bond when used at thicknesses of less than 15 mil.
- STRENGTH: J-B Weld ClearWeld has tensile strength of 3900 PSI.
I’ve been using J-B Weld Pro size ClearWeld, a two-part epoxy, and it’s been a game-changer. This epoxy offers a sturdy and durable bond to various surfaces such as tiles, plastics, wood, ceramic, glass, and metal.
The best part is that it cures clear when applied at widths less than fifteen miles, giving a seamless finish.
Mixing this epoxy is a breeze with its simple 1:1 mixing ratio, making it easy to use even if you’re a novice. It sets in five minutes and fully cures in one hour, forming a bond with a tensile strength of 3900 PSI, ensuring a lasting result.
However, I always leave it to cure overnight, just to be sure of its strength.
Initially, the product may appear cloudy and gel-like, which can be a bit concerning, but rest assured, it dries crystal clear and forms a bond that’s even stronger than the original material.
Depending on the surface, it may take longer than five minutes to set, so patience is key, but the results are worth it.
I always follow the manufacturer’s directions for the best results keenly. I’ve used this epoxy to fix the bumper of my car, and the results were truly impressive.
It’s a reliable option for various repairs and projects, and I highly recommend trying it. You won’t be disappointed!
What I Liked Most
- Simple mixing ratio
- Ideal for different surfaces
- Affordable
What Could Be Improved
- Produces strong odor- Ventilate the room or operate from outside
5. Best glue for wood furniture – Titebond 5064 Original Wood Glue
- This item is a Franklin International 5064 Titebond Original Wood Glue, 16-Ounce
- Purpose of use for Hardware, wood-glues
- This product is manufactured in United States
I love using Titebond polyurethane for joining pieces of wood. It’s a unique glue that’s perfect if you need a bond that won’t be affected by finishes. One of the best features is its easy cleanup with simple soapy water, and it’s non-toxic, making it safe to use.
The bond that Titebond polyurethane creates is incredibly strong, as it bonds at the molecular level, surpassing the strength of the wood itself. Plus, it doesn’t discolor or stain expensive lumber, ensuring a clean finish for your woodworking projects.
Applying this glue is a breeze, as it’s runny, allowing it to easily reach all the nooks and crannies of the material you’re working on. Although it can get messy, it’s easy to clean up, and any excess glue can be sanded off if needed.
The quick set time of Titebond polyurethane is another great advantage, allowing you to finish your project efficiently and move on to other tasks.
It’s perfect for repairing and strengthening wooden furniture and restoring old and weathered pieces that you might have otherwise considered throwing away.
In my experience, Titebond polyurethane outperforms other glues I’ve used in the past, and I highly recommend it for woodworking projects where a strong and reliable bond is needed. You won’t be disappointed with the results!
What I Liked Most
- Ease of use
- Works as marketed
- Water-resistant
What Could Be Improved
- If you’re joining many pieces, a quick set time may limit your ability to align them.
6. Best Wood Glue for Crafts – Krazy Glue Home & Office Brush-On Super Glue
- Strong Adhesive: Krazy Glue's brush-on super glue provides a strong bond for home and office projects.
- Wide Range of Uses: This versatile glue works on wood, ceramics, vinyl, plastic, metal, rubber, leather and more.
- Easy Application: The brush applicator allows for precise application and control when bonding materials.
You may be wondering if super glue can work on wood. This glue is excellent for woodworking projects, workplace duties, schoolwork, and crafts.
I love using the Brush applicator with this glue, as it provides excellent coverage and control, making it perfect for large surfaces and narrow areas. It’s incredibly versatile and ideal for home and office use, with a formula perfect for day-to-day repairs.
The instant bonding power of this adhesive is impressive, as it creates a super-strong bond on various materials including wood, metal, plastic, vinyl, ceramic, and more.
The bottle design is also convenient, with a no-clog feature that keeps the brush clean and prevents the bristles from tying.
The bottle’s small size makes it easy to store in my toolbox, and the trimmed tip is perfect for small or precise glueing tasks.
One of the best features is the quick drying time, as this glue dries in just six minutes, making it ideal for complex projects that cannot be clamped for long periods of time.
While the price may be higher compared to other glues in stores, especially considering the smaller amount in the bottle, the quality and effectiveness of this glue make it worth it.
The small bottle size ensures that I can use all the glue without any wastage, as leftover glues tend to harden in the container.
Overall, it’s a reliable and efficient adhesive that I rely on for various bonding needs.
What I Liked Most
- Easy to use
- Affordable
- Versatile
- Quick set time
What Could Be Improved
- Small bottle
7. Best Weather-resistant Glue – STARBOND EM-02 Super Fast Thin, CA Super Glue
- ✅ PREMIUM SUPER GLUE, SINCE 1988: For over 33 years, Starbond CA glues have been produced in smaller batch productions for product freshness. We take pride in serving industrial-grade adhesives with a longer shelf life and more reliable performance.
- ✅ GLUE LIKE A PRO: Great for wicking into tight spaces, stabilizing micro-fractures, woodturning, creating beautiful high gloss CA finishes, hobby models, and much more! Penetrating abilities of up to 0.002" in size, 2-3 cps viscosity, and dries in less than 5 seconds without the use of accelerator. With the accelerator, the ca glue bonds instantly!
- ✅ ELEVATE YOUR GLUE GAME: With your success in mind, we partnered with industry experts to produce CA glue tips and tricks video tutorials for you — scan the QR code on the user guide to watch.
seams of the items I am repairing or bonding together. Applying it with a q-tip is a great feature, as it enables me to get the glue exactly where I want it without any surplus running where it doesn’t belong.
The CA (cyanoacrylate) adhesive is excellent, and the package is well thought out. I appreciate that it provides a significant amount of glue per dollar compared to other companies.
Storing it at forty degrees Celsius ensures maximum shelf life, and I find keeping it in the refrigerator where kids won’t have access to it a good practice.
The packaging of this glue is impressive, with an additional nozzle and a pin inset for unplugging the nozzle in case it gets clogged with dried glue.
The whip nibs are also a handy feature, as they allow for precise application of the glue exactly where it is needed, without excessive squeezing.
The thin solution flows smoothly according to the bottle’s angle, making it easy to control the amount of glue being dispensed. I also appreciate that the glue is reusable if stored in the refrigerator, allowing me to make the most of the product.
Overall, it’s a reliable and versatile adhesive that offers great value for money and provides precise application for various bonding needs.
What I Liked Most
- Simple to use
- Works as market
- Suitable for different surfaces
What Could Be Improved
- It can be challenging to work with
8. Best Water-resistant Glue for Split Wood – UniBond 1963625 No More Nails Invisible, Heavy-Duty Clear Glue
- No nails - This invisible glue is ideal for heavy-duty adhesion for DIY mounting & repair jobs and eliminates the need for mounting with nails. Applies white, dries translucent.
- Multi-functional - This wood glue is suitable for many other materials such as concrete, plaster, brick or stone, as well as being an effective metal glue, ceramic glue and plastic glue*.
- Extra strength - This strong instant grab adhesive is specially designed for interior use, providing strong bonds for DIY, mounting and repair jobs in the house.
As a DIY enthusiast, I’ve found that No More Nails Original is a game-changer regarding adhesive solutions. It’s a high-quality adhesive that replaces nails and screws in most DIY and repair projects, making my work quicker and more efficient.
One of the things I love about No More Nails Original is its strong initial grab. It provides a reliable bond from the start, making it perfect for heavier objects and indoor use. I no longer worry about things falling off or coming loose over time.
The small tube size is another plus for me. I don’t need a gun to apply it, which makes it super convenient for small jobs or quick fixes. I’ve used it to attach metal netting over airbricks to keep pests out, and it stays put in all weather conditions.
I’ve also used No More Nails Original to glue heavy items to walls, such as metal tissue paper holders, metal towel rings, and large wooden name plaques on doors.
It doesn’t require a lot of glue and dries quickly, so I don’t have to hold things in place for hours as I do with some other adhesives.
The versatility of No More Nails Original is impressive. It bonds well with various materials, including metal, wood, and plastic, making it suitable for various projects.
Whether working on DIY projects around the house or doing repairs, No More Nails Original has become my go-to adhesive for its reliability and ease of use.
Overall, No More Nails Original has been a game-changer for my DIY projects. It’s a high-quality adhesive that provides quick and effective results, making my work easier and more efficient.
I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable adhesive that replaces nails and screws in their DIY and repair projects.
What I Liked Most
- Ideal for multiple surfaces
- Quick cure time
- Affordable
What Could Be Improved
- Not great for bonding plastics to wood
Best Waterproof Wood Glue Comparison Table
Wood Glue Outdoor: Types of Waterproof Glues for Wood
Polyvinyl acetate is a standard glue in most households. It’s cheap and effective and ideal for general indoor projects. The glue is non-toxic and easy to clean with water.
Some adhesives contain cross-linking PVA, which enhances the bond’s water resistance. As a result, it is suitable for various exterior applications.
Hide glue
some hide glues do not require any mixing or heating. Professional woodworkers prefer these glues due to their long assembly time, unparalleled strength, and remarkable crackling effect on wood.
The best hide glue has excellent creep resistance, is sandable, and is unaffected by wood’s finish. Hide glue’s moisture sensitivity permits easy disassembly of parts, which is helpful in antique renovation or musical instrument restoration.
Cyanoacrylate (CA) wood glue
Because it sets and cures quickly, this glue is ideal for joining pieces of rigid material. It is also a top choice for simple and quick repairs. When the glue dries, it creates a complex plastic-like bond.
It may be messy and runny when first applied. Ca glue can instantly bond your fingers to your hands or the material you are working on, as it has industrial bonding power. Be cautious when using it.
Epoxy-based glue
This glue employs a dual bonding system, the hardener. It’s suitable for filling gaps and bonding pieces of wood. To create a stronger bond, clamp down the wood as it takes time to bond. Epoxy glue is appropriate for outdoor and indoor projects.
Polyurethane glue
Polyurethane-based wood glues are one of the most durable glues. Polyurethane glues can be used on plastic, wood, ceramic, metal, and concrete. Wet the surface before applying polyurethane glue.
The Non-glue glue
Despite being marketed as a sealant, polyurethane caulking is an exceptional adhesive known for its waterproof and flexible properties.
It is highly effective in bonding porous and non-porous materials, outperforming construction adhesives in its ability to bond plastics and sheet metal parts.
Its superior flexibility allows for the close bonding of adjacent components. A useful trick is to use polyurethane caulking or sealant for joining seams in the aluminium fascia, as it eliminates the need for face nails, resulting in a neater appearance with reduced risk of buckling and waviness caused by heat expansion.
Although it may be less commonly found on store shelves since around 2012, polyurethane caulking is still available and worth sourcing. It can be conveniently purchased from online retailers such as Amazon when needed.
Construction glue
Polyurethane or combinations of polyurethane and other adhesives are commonly used in manufacturing construction glues, which are primarily formulated for general construction purposes rather than for finished applications such as furniture, doors, and cabinetry.
Other Factors to Consider Before Buying the Best Waterproof Adhesive
Water resistance
If you want wood glue for outdoor projects, go for an adhesive with superb waterproof qualities. This will ensure that the joined pieces will hold for a long even after continually exposing them to the elements.
For instance, cutting board glue goes through a lot of abuse from knives, cleavers, falling food, pots, pans, and so much more.
Adhesive strength
Before buying wood glue, consider the project at hand. This will help you pick a bond with appropriate glue strength. When you need to glue heavy-duty pieces and use glue that isn’t strong enough, it may crack, and the joints won’t be sturdy.
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Drying time
Consider the time a glue takes to dry before investing in it. Some adhesives take a few minutes to dry to the touch, while others take longer. A glue that dries faster lets you finish your project quickly and focus on other things.
On the other hand, the glue that takes time to dry will take longer to complete your project. Buy an adhesive with a reasonable drying time based on your project.
A quick-drying glue may limit your ability to align several pieces of wood. The glue that takes longer to dry forms a stronger bond and gives you ample time to arrange your components.
Cure time
Cure time refers to the hours or minutes a glue takes to form the strongest bond. Certain wood glues take twenty-four hours to cure, while others take a few hours or more fully cure. Go for an adhesive that lets you complete your project on schedule.
Easy of use
The glue’s packaging determines its ease of use. Go for a sealant you can effortlessly use based on your project.
Some sealants are available in compact bottles and pointed edges so you can easily apply them onto nooks and crevices without making messes.
Read: The best glue for glass to wood
Shelf life
Buy glue with an extended shelf life to use it as long as you need to without drying in the can. Short shelf life glues will go bad before you finish the bottle, resulting in a waste of money.
Viscosity/ Thickness
When selecting construction glues, it is critical to consider glue thickness. V very thick glues can be challenging, while some can be watery or runny. Runny glues can create messes and wander off to unwanted places.
Know the wood projects you are working on before buying wood glue. When you use water-based wood glue on MDF, it may swell. It is, therefore, advisable to use specified glue for MDF.
What Can You Use Waterproof Wood Glue For?
Waterproof wood glue is a versatile adhesive that finds extensive use in various commercial and industrial woodworking applications.
It can be used interchangeably with other industrial wood glues but is particularly ideal for situations where the wood is expected to be exposed to moisture.
For Skateboard Decks – Waterproof wood glue is commonly used to fabricate skateboard decks. Modern skateboard decks typically consist of multiple layers of wood veneers bonded together in a cold lamination press. Waterproof wood glue is applied to each layer to ensure exceptional adhesion, even if the board comes into contact with water.
For Furniture – Waterproof wood glue is highly suitable for outdoor wood furniture and other furniture prone to moisture damage. It can be used for home DIY projects and larger industrial woodworking operations to achieve durable and reliable bonds, even in humid or damp conditions.
How Are Water Resistant and Waterproof Glues Identified?
Fortunately, the claim that wood glue is “waterproof” cannot be made without proper verification.
Established standards and testing methods, such as those provided by the American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), assess the waterproof qualities of wood glues.
ASTM and ANSI are independent third-party organizations that certify various industrial materials and tools based on their abilities and quality standards.
When you purchase wood glue labelled as “waterproof” and certified by ASTM or ANSI, you can be assured that it has been tested to meet specific waterproof standards.
PVA (Polyvinyl acetate) wood glues are categorized into three general designations based on their water resistance capabilities:
Type I – This designation indicates that the glue is truly waterproof.
Type II – This designation indicates that the glue is water resistant.
Type III – This glue is intended for interior use only.
It’s important to note that neither Type I nor Type II glues are designed for continuous submersion in water. These designations provide a standardized way to determine the water resistance level of PVA wood glues, ensuring they meet specific requirements for various woodworking applications.
FAQs
What is the strongest waterproof wood glue?
Polyurethane-based wood glue is the strongest glue due to its waterproof qualities. Certain glues are water-resistant to some degree. However, it is wise not to expose them to the elements for long. Ultimately waterproof glues exist, and you should use such for on an exterior door. Use waterproof glue for indoor and outdoor applications.
Is Gorilla glue waterproof for wood?
Gorilla wood glue is water-resistant, easy to use, and dries to natural tones, creating an invisible bond to hairline cracks. It is a perfect glue for indoor and outdoor woodworking projects.
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Does wood glue withstand water?
Certain glues are water-resistant to some degree. However, it is wise not to expose them to the elements for long. Entirely waterproof adhesives exist. Use such for on an exterior door.
Does wood glue hold up in the rain?
Yes. Wood glue can withstand the rain if they’re waterproof. Use specialized wood glue for exterior applications, such as polyurethane glue. Other adhesives that will not be affected by rain or moisture are available.
Is PVA glue waterproof?
Some PVA wood glues are water-resistant but withstand light contact with water. So, you can’t use them on boats or other things that will constantly be in touch with moisture and humidity.
What is the best waterproof glue for wood?
Polyurethane is the best waterproof glue for wood. It forms a strong bond and is resistant to water damage, UV rays and abrasion. Polyurethane is a versatile waterproof wood glue that can be used on outdoor and indoor projects.
Read also: Best paintable caulk for trim.
What glue is waterproof?
Gorilla White Gorilla Glue, Waterproof Polyurethane Glue, is 100% waterproof. White Gorilla bonds to almost anything and forms a watertight seal. It’s non-toxic, safe to use indoors or outdoors, and dries quickly so you can get back to your project.
Water-resistant Wood Glue Summary
You need waterproof wood glue facts. The best waterproof wood glue provides a bond stronger than the material you are working on and is ideal for different services.
Our top choice is Gorilla Ultimate Waterproof Wood Glue. It’s completely waterproof, simple to use, affordable, and durable.