Urethane glue: The DIYer’s guide to this super adhesive

Adhesives can be manufactured from a variety of materials. Organic compounds derived from petroleum or synthetic sources form the base of urethane adhesive glues. Like epoxy, urethane adhesive may be based on a single or two-component formula.

Depending on the materials used and the manufacturing process, bonds with urethane glue can be anything from a rubbery elastic to a very hard and brittle finish. That’s why it has such a wide variety of applications.

Many industries use urethane-based glues. Here are a few of the more common applications of urethane glue. Most are available at home centres, hardware stores, and auto-supply stores.

• Urethane sealants are an excellent fit for sealing gaps, cracks, and joints on exterior surfaces. Sealing around windows is a perfect application. Urethane window adhesive provides a long-lasting barrier to the elements.
• Urethane construction adhesive bonds to wood, metal, masonry surfaces, stucco, and more. It holds up well to weather and is also paintable, which is an advantage over silicone.
  
• Urethane windshield adhesive has been a top choice in the auto industry due to its fast-drying time and superior water resistance.
  
• Urethane adhesive glue also performs well with glued-down hardwood floors. It is preferred over construction adhesive because urethane floor adhesive stays somewhat flexible, which is crucial when the seasons change and the flooring expands or contracts.
  
• Because of the flexible nature of some types of urethane adhesive, some people say that urethane bridges the gap between rubber and plastic. If your project requires a strong bond but a very flexible adhesive, urethane rubber glue may fit the bill.
  

With so many varieties on the market, you will have to do a bit of investigation when purchasing urethane adhesive. Always read the instructions carefully to ensure compatibility with the materials to which it will be applied and be mindful of the drying time (sometimes referred to as open time).

Need a fast-drying, high-viscosity adhesive that will stay flexible? Try Pattex Super Glue Ultra Gel. It’s a crystal clear, gap-filling gel, which holds up to vibration, impact, UV light, and extreme temperatures. This gel is great for repairs because it will stick to almost anything – including wood, leather, rubber, and many plastics.