Loctite Liquid Professional Super Glue
Gorilla Original Waterproof Polyurethane Glue
Loctite Ultra Gel Control Super Glue 4 – Gram
Whether you work with metal for a living or you are doing some renovation work in your home, you may be looking for an adhesive to connect or mend something made out of metal. Welding or soldering may seem too much effort and, if you are a homeowner looking do some DIY, it is also unlikely that you will own such tools.
This may interest you: Best Glue for Glass or Best Glue for Plastic.
Metal glue could be the answer to your quandary as this wonder substance can glue metal-to-metal, as well as to other materials, creating a strong and lasting bond. However, if you are new to the world of metalwork, it can be hard to know where to start. Fear not, in this article we will tell you everything there is to know about metal glue and how to find the best metal glue for your needs.
What is metal glue used for?
There are a variety of purposes for metal glue. In terms of DIY projects, metal glue can be used to attach a metal item to a host of other materials including glass, plastic, and wood. Whatever you intend on creating in your home or workshop there will be a metal glue that is fit for the task. Plus, what’s great about purchasing a metal glue is that you will find that they are often multi-purpose and will double up as a generally helpful adhesive to have to hand whenever a breakage may occur or a new project idea emerges.
What is the best glue for metal?: The different types of metal glues
There are different types of metal glues available and the type you need will depend on the type of surface you’re attaching metal too, as well as your strength and durability requirements. In this next section, we go through the different types of metal glues available and what their strengths and weaknesses are.
#1 Epoxy Metal Glue
If you are wanting to glue metal to metal then epoxy glue is the best adhesive for metal to metal bonding. Epoxy glue is the mixture of two materials – resin and hardener – which combine to make an extremely strong adhesive. You will find that often epoxy glues come in a useful dispenser which assists you in mixing the correct ratio of resin to hardener as getting this ratio correct is essential in order for the epoxy to form a strong bond between the materials. Once the mixture of resin and hardener is created this glue needs to be used quickly for best results, make sure you use a stable tool to apply the glue (so you avoid it touching your skin). When the epoxy glue has been applied to the surfaces that are being glued together, it is a good idea to clamp the piece together for best results.
The benefits of using epoxy glue are that it is incredibly strong, as well as being waterproof, heat resistant and able to withstand high pressures. The downside of using epoxy glue is that it can look a little messier than other glues as they do not always dry clear (so make sure you check out the credentials of the product in this regard). However, you can always paint over epoxy glue or sand it down to make it look more aesthetically pleasing.
#2 Polyurethane Metal Glue
Polyurethane glue is made up of a combination of chemical compounds and is known as a thermosetting polymer which means it requires heat to set (usually room temperature is adequate for this). Polyurethane is a great glue to use for both bonding metal to metal and to bond metal to other materials forming a strong bond. However, it is not as strong as epoxy glue but has some great features that may lead you to select polyurethane glue over epoxy glue.
Polyurethane glue has the advantage of coming ready to use, so it does not require the user to mix or measure quantities of substances and form the correct ratio in order to create a usable product. Other benefits of using polyurethane glue are that it is waterproof, it can set in high moisture conditions, can be used for outdoor projects, is food safe, and is slightly flexible when it dries so there is some maneuverability. Plus, the set glue can be sanded or chiseled off if it looks messy, it can also be painted over to match whatever you are creating. Another great property of polyurethane glue is that it has a longer work time than epoxy glue, so there isn’t such a rush to get the positioning right when you’re clamping the pieces together.
The cons of using polyurethane glue are that, as already mentioned, it will not create as strong a bond on metal to metal as epoxy glue does. It is also not as good as epoxy at ‘gap-filling’, polyurethane glue requires the pieces being glued together to have a tight fit. The other thing to note is that polyurethane has a short shelf life of just one year. All this being said, it is still a great adhesive and particularly good if you want an easier glue to use than epoxy. To allow polyurethane glue to reach its full strength it will need to be left to cure for 24 hours.
#3 Super Glue for Metal
There is, of course, the ever-reliable super glue that can also be used for sticking metal to metal or metal to other materials. Made out of ethyl cyanoacrylate, super glues are easy to use and give instant results. Many find using super glue the easiest option when gluing metal as they come in easy to use dispensers, set almost instantly and are pretty much mess-free. The downside of using super glues over epoxy and polyurethane glues is that the bonds it creates are not as long-lasting and that it has very low shear strength, so is unable to withstand high pressure.
Top 10 Best Metal Glues 2023 [Updated]
No doubt you are now itching to get started on your metal project and all that is left to do is to select a top metal glue. Fortunately, here we have a list of our Top Ten Metal Glues of 2020 to make the decision that much easier for you. Check them out below.
#1 Best Adhesive for Bonding Metal to Metal: Permatex 84109 PermaPoxy 4 Minute Multi-Metal Epoxy, 0.84 oz.
This superb epoxy glue from Permatex ticks all the right boxes. It is great value for money (costing under $5!) and is a versatile and easy to use metal to metal adhesive. Whether you wish to glue aluminum, brass, copper, iron, stainless steel or chrome this metal to metal adhesive will work its magic on a wide range of metals, ensuring that a strong and permanent bond is formed. Plus, as this is an epoxy glue it can also be used to fill in gaps and cracks which can then be sanded down and painted to create a smooth effect.
Other great features of this glue are that it is water-resistant and also resistant to any solvents that your metal may be exposed to. Plus, unlike some epoxies, it sets in 4 minutes and, thanks to this glues superior strength, it does not require any clamping. Please note that this is a small tube of epoxy, containing just 0.84 oz. If you’re going to need more than this you can purchase a pack of 12 in one go.
#2 Best Adhesive for Metal: Gorilla Heavy Duty GorillaWeld Steel Bond 2-Part Epoxy
Gorilla is a well-known brand when it comes to creating superior glues, and with this epoxy which is suitable for metal to metal bonding, it does not disappoint. With a 4250 psi bond strength, this epoxy glue has no trouble attaching metal to metal and also can be used to glue metal to other materials such as wood and plastic. The setting time is also an appealing feature of this metal glue as it sets in just 10 minutes.
Another fantastic design feature of this glue is that it dries in a grey color, making it the perfect option if you want your finished metal product to look aesthetically pleasing. Plus, because this is an epoxy this glue can be used to fill in any gaps and cracks that your metal may have helping it to look as good as new. This Gorilla metal glue can also be used for outdoor projects as it is fully water-resistant. This is a 2 part epoxy which you will be required to mix yourself.
#3 Best Glue for Glass to Metal: Loctite Liquid Professional Super Glue 20 gram Bottle
If you are wanting to create a glass top table with a sturdy metal stand, or perhaps you have another glass to metal project in mind, then you can rely on this strong super glue from Loctite to do the job properly. This super glue can be used with a range of materials so is a handy adhesive to add to your toolbox and is perfect for gluing glass to metal. It is easy to apply thanks to the pinpoint nozzle that comes as part of the dispenser, plus the screw-on cap helps the glue to stay fit for purpose for longer as it keeps the air out.
If you’re looking for an adhesive that gets the job done quickly then this super glue will certainly please you as it dries within seconds after application. This super glue from Loctite also dries completely clear so the finished result will look good. A great value bottle of super glue costing under $5 for 20 grams of quality adhesive.
#4 Best Glue for Metal: Gorilla Original Waterproof Polyurethane Glue, 8 ounce bottle, Brown
Here is another glue from Gorilla and this time it is a Polyurethane glue. If you have been swayed by our description as polyurethane as a flexible and easy to use adhesive then this could be the metal glue for you. A great choice if the metal you are gluing needs to be outside as this glue is waterproof and capable of withstanding the elements. Expanding 3 times into the materials it is attaching, this glue will create a bond that will last.
As well as being a great adhesive for metal, this glue can also be used to bond wood, ceramic, stone, foam, glass, and concrete so is a fantastic multi-purpose glue to have around. This glue is brown, but it can be sanded down or painted to give it the appearance you require. With such a versatile metal glue in your hands, you will be wondering what else you can stick together!
#5 Best Glue for Metal to Glass: Strongest Super Glue by HG Power Glue
This is another superb multi-purpose super glue from HG Power Glue. If you need to secure metal to glass this adhesive will be up to the job, plus it can be used for a range of other purposes should you need it as this glue is capable of bonding 93% of all materials. Whether you simply wish to secure a metal TV stand to a glass top or have a more ambitious and creative project in mind this super glue is a great choice.
While the price tag may seem a little higher than regular super glues, this is a 2 pack set including super glue and glue granules. The HG Granulate can be used to fill in any cracks or gaps and then the super glue adhesive acts as a regular super glue. Water, heat, and chemical resistant the bonds this glue creates can withstand whatever you throw at it and is sure to impress you with its long-lasting hold. Make sure you use this glue in a well-ventilated space and use protective gloves and goggles when applying.
#6 Best Glue for Metal to Plastic: Loctite Heavy Duty Epoxy Quick Set 8-Fluid Ounce Bottle (1365736)
If you have a project that requires bonding metal to plastic then this multi-purpose epoxy glue from Loctite is what you need. Coming in a 2 part kit which includes resin and hardener (each in a 4 oz bottle), mixing an equal bit of each will result in an epoxy which is incredibly strong and long-lasting. Once you’ve mixed the resin and the hardener, simply apply the adhesive to your metal and plastic surfaces and secure the two materials together.
This epoxy has a setting time of 5 minutes, giving you a bit of room for maneuver when it comes to positioning your materials ensuring they are in the right place. Once this epoxy has cured you will find that this glue is fully waterproof, as well as able to resist impact – for instance, it can even be drilled and won’t crack under the pressure. In addition to metal and plastic, you can also use this glue with ceramic, wood, china, fiberglass, concrete and stone so is a great solution to many adhesive quandaries.
#7 Best Glue for Metal to Wood: J-B Weld 50112 Clear Weld Quick-Setting Epoxy Syringe – Clear – 25 ml
If you’re after an epoxy that will glue metal to wood and provide impressive results then check out this glue from J-B Weld. Coming in a 2-part syringe container, it is easy to mix the resin and the hardener as an equal amount of each is dispensed as you push the syringe, making those ratios a breeze. This glue is great if you’re looking for quick results as it sets within 5 minutes and is fully cured in an hour, which is an impressive speed for an epoxy.
This glue from J-B Weld can be used either indoors or outdoors, it has a tensile strength of 4400 PSI and promises to form a stronger bond than steel between your two materials. Why not put this legendary glue to the test and have a go at gluing a range of materials. This versatile glue is compatible with ceramics, glass, brick, fabric, carpets, concrete as well as wood and metal. An amazing adhesive that you won’t be disappointed in.
#8 Best Glue for Plastic to Metal: Gorilla Clear Grip Contact Adhesive 3 Ounce, Clear
If mixing your own glue doesn’t sound up your street then you might be interested in this ready to use super strong glue that can be used straight from the tube. All you need to do is apply some of this glue to your plastic or metal, put your pieces together and see a bond form almost instantly. This glue dries clear but it can be painted over to create the effect you want.
Suitable for both indoor and outdoor projects, you will find this strong glue from Gorilla is built to withstand both the elements and exertion. Easy to use, with very little mess this is the glue to go for if you want a straightforward adhesive that does the job. Make sure that you use this glue only in well-ventilated areas as it gives off powerful fumes.
#9 Best Glue for Wood to Metal: Loctite Ultra Gel Control Super Glue 4 – Gram (1363589)
This is a great super glue for a range of household materials and works well if you need to glue wood to metal. It works best with vertical surfaces and can withstand repairs to objects that need to undergo daily use and pressure, as well as being resistant to shock vibration and extremes in temperature. This is a superb super glue that will not disappoint.
As this is a gel super glue it means that it does not drip as easily making it less messy and also ideal for porous surfaces such as wood. The dispense itself also adds to the appeal of this super glue as it is specially designed to be easy to use and allow for precision when applying the glue to your designated surfaces. This glue can be used, sealed and then used again if sealed up properly and kept in a cool dry place. An excellent metal super glue that also works well on leather, cork, ceramic, wood, fabric, cardboard and much more.
#10 Best Super Glue for Metal: Krazy Glue Home & Office Brush on Super Glue, Brush Applicator, 5 Grams
As the name suggests, this glue has some crazy strength and is an excellent super glue to consider if you are looking for the best metal glue. The bonding results are practically instant and, thanks to the brush applicator, applying the super glue has never been easier. Plus, the brush is designed to be non-stick so you never need to worry about them getting stuck together after use. With the no-clog bottle, you will be squeezing out this super glue with ease.
Being American’s leading instant glue should increase your confidence that this is definitely worth a try. It can be applied to glue metal to metal but also metal to vinyl, plastic, wood, and ceramics. With instant results that are there to stay this is a great glue to have in your tool kit if you need a quick fix when a breakage occurs, or simply if you want to have a go at creating something new. You’ll soon find that you can put this super glue to use for multiple purposes as well as it being an excellent metal glue.
Best Metal Glue: Buying Guide
Ensuring you have the best metal to metal glue for your project takes a bit of thinking about. In this Best Metal Glue Buying Guide, we take you through the considerations you need to make before purchasing your metal glue.
#1 Drying Time
Depending on the type of metal glue you go for, it will have different drying and curing times. For instance, epoxy glues will take longer to dry than super glues. It is important to establish how fast you need the glue to dry before deciding what drying time is an acceptable range for you. All good metal glues should state their drying time in their product description.
#2 Pressure Resistance
If you’re working with a product like metal it is likely that you are intending to create something strong and durable. This means that you will need your glue to also be of such a quality that it can withstand pressure as well as resistance. An epoxy or polyurethane glue is best suited for use with projects where pressure may be exerted on the piece as super glue can only resist pulling stress and nothing that is exerted on it at an angle.
#3 Ease of Use
The type of glue you go for will also be determined by how easy it is to use. As already mentioned, epoxy glue can be a little trickier than the other metal glues as it requires you to create the mixture yourself. Another factor to consider is the type of dispenser the glue is in, there are various options out there with some containing a helpful nozzle to allow you to use the glue straight from the bottle, and others that require a brush or other tool in order to spread the glue where you need it.
#4 Exposure to the elements
Have a think about what the project you are creating might be exposed to. While the metal your using may be resistant to the elements, the same doesn’t necessarily go for the glue you are using. If what you’re gluing together needs to be outside, make sure that you select a glue that is waterproof as well as heat resistant.
#5 The pieces you are bonding
The type of glue you require will also depend on what you are bonding together. If the pieces that you are sticking together do not fit together in a straightforward way then it is likely that you will need an epoxy glue as this can also act as a filler. Polyurethane and super glues will not be as effective in this scenario as they require a much cleaner fit in order to be effective.
How to use Metal Glue: Step by Step Guide
Now you know what you need to look out for in a good metal glue and how to select the optimum metal glue for your needs, it is now time to take a look at how you put your metal glue into action.
#1 Clean
As with any material, it is essential that the pieces of metal you are going to be gluing is clean, free of debris and sanded off any rough edges before applying the adhesive. It is also a good idea to sand the surfaces you are going to be sticking as this creates a good texture for the pieces you are sticking together to form a bond. When you are preparing the surfaces be careful not to touch them as the oils from your skin can interfere with the effectiveness of the glue.
#2 Apply the metal glue
When your surfaces are prepared you are ready to apply your glue. If you are using an epoxy glue this is the time to mix the resin and the hardener together (only do this when you are ready to apply the glue as it needs to be used instantly). Apply your glue and spread evenly across the surfaces of the metal (other material you are attaching the metal to) being careful not to let the adhesive touch your skin. It is also important to make sure you are in a well-ventilated place as you do this as some glues give off toxic fumes that are not healthy to breathe in (check out the safety guidelines on the glue to see if it recommends you use it outdoors).
#3 Clamp in place
For best results, clamp the materials you are using together so that the bond can have the best chance of being effective. Polyurethane and epoxy glues will require a curing time in order to become fully effective so having your materials clamped together will increase the chances of forming a very strong bond.
#4 Leave to dry/cure
Make sure you follow the instructions on the packaging of your metal glue and allow the glue to cure for the length of time it states. Super glues will dry much faster than epoxy and polyurethane glues.
Conclusion
If you’re wanting to work with metal but you don’t fancy investing in welding or soldering equipment then a good metal glue could be your answer. There are some fantastically strong metal glues out there that range from epoxy glues to super glues with various strengths and characteristics. Whether you want to glue metal to metal, or metal to a range of other materials there is a product out there for you.
Choosing the right metal glue for your needs depends on whether you want a quick fix or something that is longer lasting. Epoxy glue is slightly more effort to use but has greater strength than super glue. That being said, there are some excellent super glues out there that make some strong competitors in this field. Whatever you decide, be sure to check that the metal glue fits your requirements in terms of whether it is suitable for use outdoors and has a convenient drying time for your needs.