Does Gorilla Glue Work on Wood? A Big Yes, With Strong Joints

I’m the glue that holds everything, together~Otis Williams

Forgetting myself completely, I let my head loll back against my friends’ shoulders. I asked slowly, “What kind of glue would be best for my woodworking job?”

“A Glue?” -Replied my friend.

After a while, he echoed, his mouth close to my ear, uttering mildly, “for woodworking projects”.

“Ah”. He paused while a sound retreated, “Gorilla Glue,  I believe.”  Again, I come back with a question, Does Gorilla glue work on wood?

My fellow answered, Yes, Gorilla glue works perfectly on different types of woods like softwoods, hardwoods, and wood composites. Due to the presence of water-based PVA formula, it is not just good for wood; rather, it can help you to bond various materials such as stone, metal, glass, foam, and many others.

However, later I studied more and found some interesting ideas that influenced me to write this piece regarding the details of Gorilla glue and its applications. Let’s dive into the stories to dig into the details.

A Thorough discussion of Gorilla glue and its application on wood:

   Gorilla glue Vs wood: What’s the chemistry?

Well, before revealing the physics, and chemistry, let’s know first,

                  “What is Gorilla Glue?”

I apologize if you already know it, but the definition is necessary for later and better understanding if you don’t.

What is Gorilla Glue?

Gorilla Glue: The chemistry

According to George S Cherian (CMA Cost and Management Accountants), Gorilla Glue is simply a brand or company name. It is renowned as one of the most efficient glue manufacturing brands, which earned fame for producing special ‘Wood Glues.

The chemistry is that Gorilla Glue is a moisture-curing polyurethane-based glue that absorbs moisture from the air.

Also, it can absorb moisture from such kinds of materials that are used and cross-linking into an insoluble polymer. Gorilla Glue has different types of products for different applications. ~Robert Mejorado, Interior Designer.

Specifications and technical details: Gorilla Glue wood glue

How strong is Gorilla Glue for wood?

When considering the glue game, Gorilla is considerably a newcomer. 

So, you may face a question like, how strong is Gorilla Glue for wood?

Gorilla Glue is a stronger competitor than many others due to its adhesive strength. It is a cross-linked PVA that is designed to make higher than average bond strength (with shorter clamp time). 

If you want to experience a strong bond between wood and glue, then you should allow the glue to dry overnight with clamping conditions.

Some users claim that you can remove the clamp after 20 minutes and experience almost 80% bond strength (in just 1/2 hours).

It implies that you can move the project fast without weakening the power of glue joints.

Besides, the temperature (up to 50 degrees) plays a significant role in getting a strong bond between the wood and Gorilla Glue.

What Are the Most Common Uses Of Gorilla glue?

A Gorilla Glue is the perfect companion for the following objects.

1. Furniture

I bet it is hard to find any better alternative adhesive than a Gorilla Wood Glue for furniture joining.

Gorilla Wood Glue could be a great bang for the buck if you need strong adhesive for joining wooden materials, such as tables and chairs.

Just apply some glue on the top of your chair’s loose leg that is dangling from the top. Fix the leg problem of your chair and stop it from wobbling.

2. Glass

When it comes to fixing glass materials, then Gorilla Epoxy and Gorilla Glue combinedly play a big role.

The glue can bond the glass together and stop it from expanding. No matter whether you have broken glass tiles or broken glass, Gorilla adhesive works like a magic strand. 

3. Hobbies

One of the best adhesives in the Gorilla Glue production line is Gorilla Super Glue.

If you want to know what would be best for hobby projects and small projects (cars and model planes), then my favorite is Gorilla Super Glue.

I like it because it is durable and dries fast.

4. Extra items

Following are some more objects that need strong, appropriate, and waterproof adhesive like basic Gorilla Glue to join them together.

• Rubber
• Paper
• Foam
• Concrete
• Brick
• PVC Sheet
• Plastic
• Stone
• Metal and wood

GORILLA GLUE APPLICATIONS’ chart: Guides And Tips

   Leading multi-purpose waterproof glue

How to use gorilla wood glue?

Following are some step-by-step processes on how to use Gorilla wood glue on the surfaces. Before going through the process, let’s know the things you need to cover in the formula.

Things you need:

• Gorilla wood glue
• Clean/dry cloth 
• Water
• Gloves
• plastic spreader or stiff-bristled brush

Top 6 Steps To Do To Use Gorilla Wood Glue

Step 1: Clean The Surface and Damp it

Firstly, you need to make sure that the surface where you apply the glue is clean enough. To get better results, slightly dampen the wood surface with water (Gorilla glue is activated well by moisture).

Don’t saturate the surface or don’t pour water into the bottle. 

Step 2: Glue the surface

Now open the tube and use the Gorilla wood glue on both surfaces. Don’t overflow when you apply the glue to the surface.

Note: Keeping a clean cloth could be a great help to remove overflow or spill glue instantly.

Warning: Don’t forget to wear gloves to keep your skin safe from Gorilla wood Glue because it can stain and ruin your clothes.

Tips:

• 1 gallon of Gorilla Wood Glue = 200 square feet of coverage.
• 1 fluid ounce =1.6 square feet of coverage (approximately)

Step 3: Spread the glue

Thirdly, ensure you spread the wood glue into a consistent and thin coat. You should take the help of a plastic spreader or stiff-bristled brush to get the job done. 

Step 4: Press the wood pieces together

You may need to fix the surfaces by changing their positions back and forth (slightly) to make sure they have a smooth coat.

Besides, adjusting the surfaces may need to ensure there are no air bubbles in the gap between the wood pieces.

Step 5:  Clamp it

Now, you need to use a G-clamp to secure the wood pieces. Allow the pieces to be tied together for 1 to 2 hours.

You can use Gorilla tape or heavyweight to get enough gripping pressure. The better gripping, the stronger the bond.

Use a dry cloth to wipe the nozzle and make it clean.

Note: Recommended clamping pressure inch (PSI)

• High: 175-250 psi
• Medium: 125-175 psi
• Low: 100-150 psi

Step 6: Allow the glue pieces to sit

According to the product manuals, ensure you clamp the pieces together for the recommended pressing period. If there is any extra glue, just Sand it off. Use a damp cloth to wipe off the extra glue.

Tips: Also, use a sharp putty knife, sharp scraper, or razor to remove hardened glue from the surface.

N.B. However, If you want to experience a practical show, you can watch this tutorial

Is Gorilla wood glue waterproof?

Yes, the Gorilla wood glue is a waterproof adhesive item.

But what makes it waterproof and resistant to extreme temperatures?

Yes, it’s’ all about the PVA and polyurethane formulas that make it incredibly water-resistant. It is indeed a super-strong adhesive that dries in a natural color.

Sizes (Gorilla wood glue): 4 oz. 8 oz. 18 oz. 36 oz. Gallon (3.785L).

Does gorilla wood glue expand?

The straightforward answer is “No”. Gorilla wood glue doesn’t expand, though the basic gorilla glue expands 3 to 4 times in size ~Danielle Guido, customer affairs expert for Gorilla Glue.

It is a thick, water-based, and very reliable adhesive that dries fast and leaves a clean line.

Related: How To Remove Gorilla Glue From Wood: 8 Easy Ways

How long does gorilla glue take to dry on wood?

Typically, it is mentioned earlier that within 1 to 2 hours, 80% of Gorilla glue dries on wood. But the overall dry time of Gorilla wood glue on wood is 24 hours.

But before allowing it to dry, you need to make sure that you clamp the two pieces of wood for 20 to 30 minutes.

Also, to get quick results, ensure you keep the joint in a dry and warm area. You can use a portable heater to make the drying process even faster. But don’t overheat the glue or surface. You can also check this article for more details on How to Make Gorilla Glue Dry Faster?

How long does Gorilla Glue last on wood?

The Gorilla Glue is renowned as an all-purpose adhesive item. Typically, If you can apply this glue to the wood correctly, it will last one to two years. It is free from fillers and solvents that make it robust, versatile, and long-lasting.

Does gorilla wood glue dry clear?

No, gorilla wood glue isn’t dry clear. It is a PVA-based adhesive and it dries the color that it is. It is best to clear any glues that you will find before drying. Gorilla wood glue wouldn’t be your first choice if you want clear-drying glue.

Is gorilla glue toxic when dry?

Yes, gorilla glue can be toxic when dry and cause serious health hazards. If you can’t diagnose and treat the issue properly, the possibility of death will be final.

Advantages and Disadvantages of gorilla glue:

Advantages of Gorilla glue

• Gorilla glue is ideal for creating strong bonds across different wood surfaces
• It is a water-based PVA adhesive that makes it versatile.
• You will find it best for building, hobby projects, or carpentry using any type of wood.
• 100% water-resistant and easy to use
• Good choice for both indoors and outdoors.

Disadvantages of gorilla glue:

• Due to the presence of the catalyzing agent, Diphenylmethane Diisocyanate (MDI), gorilla glue ingestion could be a cause of your death.
• Besides, it can cause eye and skin irritation.
• Gastrointestinal blockage may occur if any pet or people ingest this glue.
• Gorilla glue is way too costly for what it is worth.
• It is toxic when inhaled and may cause respiratory problems and breathing difficulty. Read more here.

Should you use this glue on your wood or not?

You should use Gorilla wood glue if you want to ensure a permanent bond in your woodworking projects.

It works better in those wood pieces with medium to large surface areas for gluing. You should not use this glue on your wood if you plan to leave a lot of weight on it.

Does Gorilla Glue go bad?

Yes, Gorilla Glue can go bad if the container is opened. The air and moisture exposure will make the Gorilla glue’s fluidity harden enough. 

Gorilla Glue can be stored in a freezer for one year, but ensure you keep the can tight enough ~Stuart Lew, former Retired Manufacturing Engineer.

Summary:

Nowadays, in the glue industry, Gorilla Glue is a popular name. It produces a reliable wood glue for joining that surpasses many others in adhesive strength.

If you are a woodworker or carpenter, Gorilla glue could be your indispensable choice which is well worth your penny.

Among many other Gorilla Glues, my favorite is the Gorilla Wood Glue, 4 Ounce Bottle due to its natural Wood Color.

It is fully cured on wood surfaces within 24 hours. Besides, Gorilla Wood Glue, 8 Ounce Bottle, and Gorilla Wood Glue, 18 Ounce Bottle are also my favorite to cover little large wood projects. All these are carpenters, woodworkers, and hobbyists’ trust.