Get the facts on how to glue glass together in this brief article. Then you can approach your projects and repairs with confidence.
Best way to glue glass: Three main methods
Most ordinary adhesives will not bond effectively to the smooth, non-porous surface of glass. This article will help you to choose the best ways to glue glass together using glues that are designed to do the job.
There are three adhesives that are most used for this purpose, and we’ll give some instruction on when and how to use each. These are: super glue, epoxy, and construction adhesive. Let’s take a closer look at each.
Glass is a hard, non-porous material that requires a special adhesive
How to glue glass: Small projects and repairs
When making repairs to glassware (such as a wine glass stem), decorative items, and other household goods made of glass, use a glue especially designed to glue glass back together. You can use a super glue that will bond to non-porous materials or a glass glue. Glass glue will bond to virtually any type of glass as well as other materials. Both options dry quick and are easy to use.
How to glue glass: Delicate glassware
At times, a more robust solution is needed. If small shards of glass are missing, or the pieces do not fit as precisely as you would like, epoxy can span the gaps without breaking. It can even repair the surface in many cases.
The best way to glue glass on large projects
Construction adhesive that is formulated for glass is the best way to glue glass on building projects. Installing plate glass windows or structural glass will require a strong adhesive that will hold up to moisture, UV light, and the other stresses of the outdoors. It is also quick and easy to use when purchased in tubes that dispense from a large caulk gun.
Whichever glue you choose, follow these simple steps:
- Ensure the materials are clean, dry, and fit together closely.
- Align the parts to ensure a fit without gaps (unless you are using epoxy).
- Apply adhesive to one surface and press the parts together for 15–60 seconds. Hold the items still until a bond develops.
- Allow the item to fully cure before normal use, typically by leaving it undisturbed overnight.
- Clean the glue applicator and any excess glue.
Note: when using epoxy, which is a two-part adhesive, it will be necessary to mix the resin and hardener on a disposable surface before applying it.
Pro tip: need to clean up a spill? You can easily remove a large amount of uncured adhesive by adding water to it and allowing it to cure. Once it’s dry, it will be brittle and can be removed with a scraper.
How to glue glass to glass: use quality adhesives
LePage Extreme Glue is a great option for many projects around the home that involve gluing to glass. Super strong and durable, it dries clear and is resistant to shocks and vibration, temperature fluctuations, and moisture. It can be used indoors or out. Pre-wet both non-porous surfaces with a damp cloth and you are ready to glue!
Adjust the glass pieces you want to glue and make sure they all fit together
For the resilient features of an epoxy, we recommend LePage Gel Epoxy. Its gel formulation makes it easy to use and prevents drips and runs. Working time is about five minutes once the resin and hardener are mixed. It bonds not only to glass, but metal, wood, ceramics, many plastics, and more.
Have a glass repair in a wet environment? Try LePage Marine Epoxy. This amazing formula can be applied and cured underwater if necessary. Just two hours to a tough, rigid bond that can be sanded or machined if necessary.