Best Metal Glue: 3 Types of Glue Works on Metal in 2023 [Updated] - Let's Wood (2023)

Loctite liquid professional superglue

Check the latest price

Gorilla Original waterproof polyurethane adhesive

Check the latest price

Loctite Ultra Gel Control Super Glue 4 - Grams

Check the latest price

Whether you work with metal for a living or are renovating your home, you may be looking for an adhesive to bond or repair something made of metal. Welding or soldering may seem like too much of a hassle, and if you're a homeowner looking for DIY tools, it's also unlikely that you'll own such tools.

This might interest you:Best glue for glassorBest glue for plastic.

Metal Glue could be the answer to your dilemma as this wonder substance can bond metal to metal as well as other materials creating a strong and lasting bond. However, if you are new to the metalworking world, it can be difficult to know where to start. Fear not, in this article we will tell you everything you need to know about metal adhesive and how to find the best metal adhesive for your needs.

What is metal glue used for?

There are a variety of uses for metal adhesive. In terms of DIY projects, metal glue can be used to attach a metal item to a variety of other materials, including glass, plastic, and wood. Whatever you intend to create in your home or workshop, there is a metal adhesive that is up to the task. Also, the great thing about buying a metal adhesive is that you'll find that it's often multi-purpose, doubling as a general helpful adhesive to have on hand whenever a breakage occurs or a new project idea pops up.

What is the best adhesive for metal?: The different types of metal adhesives

There are different types of metal adhesive and the type you need will also depend on the type of surface you are attaching metal to and your needs for strength and durability. In this next section, we'll go over the different types of metal glue available and their strengths and weaknesses.

#1 Epoxy Metal Adhesive

If you want to bond metal to metal, epoxy is the best adhesive for metal to metal connections. Epoxy glue is the mixture of two materials - resin and hardener - which together make an extremely strong adhesive. You will find that epoxy adhesives often come in a handy dispenser to help you mix the correct ratio of resin to hardener, as it is important to get this ratio right for the epoxy to form a strong bond between the materials. Once the resin and hardener mixture is made, this glue must be used quickly for best results. Make sure you use a sturdy tool to apply the glue (so you avoid it touching your skin). Once the epoxy has been applied to the surfaces to be bonded, it is recommended that the part be clamped together for best results.

The advantages 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 to using epoxy glue is that it can look a bit messier than other glues as they don't always dry clear (so be sure to check the product's references on this). However, you can always paint over or sand down epoxy glue to make it look more aesthetically pleasing.

#2 Polyurethane Metal Adhesive

Polyurethane adhesive is made from a combination of chemical compounds and is known as a thermosetting polymer, which means it requires heat to cure (room temperature is usually sufficient). Polyurethane is a great adhesive that can be used to bond metal to metal as well as metal to other materials creating a strong bond. However, it is not as strong as epoxy glue but has some great qualities that may make you choose polyurethane glue over epoxy glue.

Polyurethane glue has the advantage of being supplied ready to use, eliminating the need for the user to mix or measure quantities of substances and form the correct ratio to produce a usable product. Other advantages of using polyurethane glue are that it is waterproof, can cure in high humidity, can be used for outdoor projects, is food safe, and is slightly flexible once dry so there is some maneuverability. Also, the set glue can be sanded or chiseled away if it looks messy, and it can also be painted over to match what you are creating. Another great thing about polyurethane glue is that it has a longer working time than epoxy glue, so there's less of a rush to find the right positioning when you're clamping the pieces together.

The disadvantages of using polyurethane glue are that, as mentioned earlier, it doesn't bond metal to metal as strongly as epoxy glue. It's also not as good as epoxy at "gap filling", polyurethane glue requires the parts to be bonded to fit tightly together. The other thing to note is that polyurethane has a short shelf life of just one year. That said, it's still a great glue, and especially good if you want an easier-to-use glue than epoxy. In order for the polyurethane adhesive to achieve its full strength, it must be cured for 24 hours.

#3 Superglue for metal

Of course, there's the ever-reliable superglue, which can also be used to bond metal to metal or metal to other materials. Ethyl cyanoacrylate super glues are easy to use and provide instant results. Many find using super glue the easiest option when gluing metal because they come in easy-to-use dispensers, cure almost instantly, and are fairly clean. The disadvantage of using superglues over epoxy and polyurethane glues is that the bonds made with them are not as durable and they have very low shear strength and therefore cannot withstand high pressure.

Top 10 Best Metal Adhesives 2023 [Updated]

No doubt you are now itching to get started on your metal project and all you have to do is choose a top metal adhesive. Luckily, here's a list of our top ten metal adhesives of 2020 to make your decision that much easier. Check them out below.

Best #1 Adhesive for Bonding Metal to Metal: Permatex 84109 PermaPoxy 4-Minute Multimetal Epoxy, 0.84 oz.

This excellent epoxy adhesive from Permatex meets all requirements. It offers excellent value for money (costs under $5!) and is a versatile and easy-to-use metal-to-metal adhesive. Whether you're bonding aluminium, brass, copper, iron, stainless steel or chrome, this metal-to-metal adhesive works on a wide range of metals, ensuring a strong and durable bond is formed. As it is an epoxy adhesive it can also be used to fill in gaps and cracks which can then be sanded and painted to give a smooth effect.

Other great features of this glue are that it is waterproof and also resistant to any solvents your metal may be exposed to. Plus, unlike some epoxies, it cures in 4 minutes and doesn't require clamping thanks to the superior strength of this adhesive. Please note this is a small tube of epoxy containing only 0.84 ounces. If you need more than that you can buy a pack of 12 at a time.

#2 Best Adhesives for Metal: Gorilla Heavy Duty GorillaWeld Steel Bond 2 Part Epoxy

Gorilla is a well-known brand when it comes to making quality adhesives and it doesn't disappoint with this epoxy suitable for metal-to-metal bonds. With a bond strength of 4250psi, this epoxy adhesive has no problem attaching metal to metal and can also be used to bond metal to other materials such as wood and plastic. The setting time is also an appealing feature of this metal adhesive, as it cures in just 10 minutes.

Another fantastic design feature of this glue is that it dries in a gray colour, making it the perfect option if you want your finished metal product to look aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, being an epoxy, this glue can be used to fill in any gaps and cracks your metal may have to keep it looking as good as new. This gorilla metal glue can also be used for outdoor projects as it is fully waterproof. This is a 2 part epoxy that you will need to mix yourself.

#3 Best Glass to Metal Glue: Loctite Liquid Professional Super Glue 20 gram bottle

If you're looking to make a glass table with a sturdy metal stand, or perhaps have another glass-to-metal project in mind, then you can count on this strong CA from Loctite to get the job done right. This super glue can be used with a range of materials making it a handy glue to have in your toolbox and perfect for gluing glass to metal. The included pinpoint nozzle makes it easy to apply, and the screw cap keeps the adhesive usable longer by keeping the air out.

If you're looking for a glue that gets the job done quickly, you're sure to like this super glue as it dries within seconds of application. This super glue from Loctite also dries completely clear so the finished result looks great. A great value bottle of super glue at less than $5 for 20 grams of quality glue.

#4 Best Glue for Metal: Gorilla Original Waterproof Polyurethane Glue, 8 Ounce Bottle, Brown

Here's another glue from Gorilla and this time it's a polyurethane glue. If you were influenced by our description of polyurethane as a flexible and easy to use adhesive, this could be the metal adhesive for you. A good choice when the metal to be bonded needs to be outside as this adhesive is waterproof and will stand up to the elements. This adhesive expands three times into the materials it is attaching, creating a permanent bond.

As well as being a great adhesive for metal, this glue can be used to bond wood, ceramic, stone, foam, glass and concrete making it a fantastic multi-purpose adhesive. This glue is brown but can be sanded or painted to give it the look you want. With such a versatile metal glue in your hands, you'll be wondering what else you can glue together!

#5 Best Glue for Metal on Glass: Strongest superglue from HG Power Glue

This is another excellent multipurpose super glue from HG Power Glue. If you need to attach metal to glass this adhesive will do the job, plus it can be used for a number of other purposes if required as this adhesive can bond 93% of all materials. Whether you simply want to attach a metal TV stand to a glass panel or you have a more ambitious and creative project in mind, this super glue is a great choice.

While the price may seem a bit higher than regular superglues, this is a 2-pack set containing both superglue and glue granules. The HG granules can be used to fill cracks or gaps and then the super glue will act like a regular super glue. Water, heat and chemical resistant The bonds this adhesive creates will withstand anything you throw at it and will impress you with its long-lasting hold. Make sure to use this glue in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gloves and goggles when applying.

#6 Best Adhesive for Metal to Plastic: Loctite Heavy Duty Epoxy Quick Set 8 Fluid Ounce Bottle (1365736)

If you have a project that involves bonding metal to plastic, then this multi-purpose epoxy from Loctite is for you. Contained in a 2-part kit that includes resin and hardener (each in a 4-ounce bottle), mixing an equal amount of each results in an epoxy resin that's incredibly strong and durable. After mixing the resin and hardener, simply apply the adhesive to your metal and plastic surfaces and attach the two materials together.

This epoxy has a 5 minute set time which gives you some leeway when it comes to positioning your materials in the right place. Once this epoxy has cured you will find that this glue is fully waterproof and can withstand impact - for example it can even be drilled and will not crack under pressure. In addition to metal and plastic, you can use this adhesive on ceramic, wood, porcelain, fiberglass, concrete and stone, making it a great solution to many bonding difficulties.

#7 Best Glue for Metal to Wood: J-B Weld 50112 Clear Weld Fast Curing Epoxy Syringe - Clear - 25mL

If you're looking for an epoxy that will bond metal to wood and produce impressive results, then check out this glue from J-B Weld. In a 2-piece syringe container, it's easy to mix the resin and hardener because squeezing the syringe dispenses the same amount of each, making those ratios a breeze. This glue is great if you're looking for quick results as it cures in 5 minutes and fully cures in an hour which is an impressive speed for an epoxy.

This adhesive from J-B Weld can be used both indoors and outdoors, it has a tensile strength of 4400 PSI and promises a stronger bond than steel between your two materials. Try this legendary glue and try to glue different materials. This versatile adhesive is compatible with ceramic, glass, brick, fabric, carpet, concrete, wood and metal. An amazing adhesive that you will not be disappointed with.

#8 Best Adhesive for Plastic to Metal: Gorilla Clear Grip Contact Adhesive 3 ounce, Clear

(Video) Top 5 Best Glue For Metal Review in 2023

If mixing your own glue isn't your thing, then you may be interested in this ready-to-use super strong glue that can be used straight from the tube. All you have to do is apply some of this glue to your plastic or metal, snap your parts together and see a bond form almost immediately. This glue dries clear but can be painted over to achieve the desired effect.

Suitable for both indoor and outdoor projects, this strong adhesive from Gorilla will stand up to both the elements and the exertion. Easy to use with very little mess this is the glue to go for when you are looking for a no fuss glue that gets the job done. Make sure you only use this glue in well-ventilated areas as it gives off strong fumes.

#9 Best Adhesives for Wood to Metal: Loctite Ultra Gel Control Super Glue 4 - Grams (1363589)

This is a great super glue for a range of household materials and works well when you need to glue wood to metal. It works best with vertical surfaces and can withstand repairs on items subjected to daily use and pressure, and is resistant to shock vibration and temperature extremes. This is an excellent super glue that will not disappoint.

Being a gel super glue means it doesn't drip easily making it less messy and also great for porous surfaces like wood. The dispensing itself also adds to the appeal of this super glue as it is specifically designed for ease of use and allows for precise application of the glue to the intended surfaces. This glue can be used, sealed, and then reused if properly sealed and stored in a cool, dry place. An excellent metal super glue that also works well on leather, cork, ceramics, wood, fabric, cardboard and much more.

#10 Best Superglue for Metal: Krazy Glue Home & Office Brush on Superglue, Brush Applicator, 5 Grams

As the name suggests, this glue has crazy strength and is an excellent super glue to consider when looking for the best metal glue. Glue results are visible almost immediately and thanks to the brush applicator, applying super glue has never been easier. Also, the brush is designed to be non-stick, so you don't have to worry about them sticking together after use. Squeeze out that superglue effortlessly with the clog-free bottle.

Being America's No. 1 superglue should give you confidence that this is definitely worth trying. It can be used for bonding metal to metal, but also metal to vinyl, plastic, wood and ceramics. With instant results that stay put, this is a great glue to have in your toolbox when you need a quick fix when a break occurs or when you just want to create something new. You will soon find that you can use this super glue for multiple purposes and that it is an excellent metal glue.

Best Metal Adhesive: Buyer's Guide

To ensure you have the best metal-to-metal adhesive for your project, you need to do a little thinking. In this Best Metal Glue Buying Guide, we'll walk you through the considerations you need to make before purchasing your metal glue.

#1 drying time

Depending on the type of metal adhesive you choose, it will have different drying and curing times. For example, epoxy glue takes longer to dry than superglue. It is important to determine how quickly the adhesive needs to dry before deciding what drying time is acceptable to you. All good metal adhesives should state their drying time in their product description.

#2 Compressive Strength

When you are working with a product like metal it is likely that you intend to create something strong and durable. This means you also need your glue to be of a quality that can withstand both pressure and resistance. An epoxy or polyurethane adhesive is best for use on projects where pressure can be applied to the part, since superglue can only withstand a tensile load and not one applied to it at an angle.

#3 Ease of Use

The type of glue you choose also depends on how easy it is to use. As mentioned, epoxy glue can be a bit trickier than the other metal glues since you have to make the mix yourself. Another factor to consider is the type of dispenser that the adhesive is in. There are several options, some including a helpful nozzle that lets you use the glue straight from the bottle, and others that require a brush or other tool to spread the glue where you need it.

#4 Exposure to the Elements

Think about what the project you are creating might face. While the metal you use can be resilient to the elements, the adhesive you use is not necessarily the same. If what you're gluing together has to be outside, make sure you choose a glue that's both waterproof and heat-resistant.

#5 The pieces you glue

The type of glue you need also depends on what you are gluing together. If the parts you're gluing together don't fit together easily, you'll likely need epoxy glue, as it can double as a filler. Polyurethane and super glue aren't as effective in this scenario as they require a much cleaner fit to be effective.

How to use metal glue: step-by-step instructions

Now that you know what to look for in a good metal adhesive and how to choose the optimal metal adhesive for your needs, it's time to take a look at how to put your metal adhesive into action.

#1 Sauber

As with any material, it is important that the metal parts you wish to glue are clean, dirt free and any rough edges sanded down before applying the glue. It's also a good idea to sand the surfaces to be glued as this will create a good texture for the pieces you are gluing together to create a bond. When preparing the surfaces, be careful not to touch them as your skin's oils can reduce the effectiveness of the glue.

#2 Apply the metal glue

With your surfaces prepared you can apply your glue. If you are using an epoxy glue, this is the time to mix the resin and hardener (only do this when you are ready to apply the glue as it must be used immediately). Apply your glue and spread it evenly over the surfaces of the metal (other material you are attaching the metal to), being careful not to let the glue touch your skin. It's also important to make sure you're in a well-ventilated area when doing this, as some adhesives give off toxic fumes that aren't healthy to breathe in (read the safety guidelines on the adhesive to see if you recommend using it outside).

#3 The party clip

For best results, clamp the materials you are using together so the connection has the best chance of being effective. Polyurethane and epoxy adhesives require a curing time to develop their full effect. So when you clamp your materials together, you increase the chances of making a very strong bond.

#4 Allow to dry/cure

Be sure to follow the directions on the packaging of your metal adhesive and allow the adhesive to cure for the specified time. Superglue dries much faster than epoxy and polyurethane glue.

Diploma

If you want to work with metal but don't feel like investing in welding or soldering equipment, then a good metal adhesive could be your answer. There are some fantastically strong metal adhesives ranging from epoxies to superglues with different strengths and properties. Whether you want to bond metal to metal or metal to a range of other materials, there's a product for you.

Choosing the right metal adhesive for your needs depends on whether you want a quick fix or a longer lasting fix. Epoxy glue is a bit more complicated to use, but has greater strength than superglue. That being said, there are some excellent superglues that present some strong contenders in this field. Whatever you decide, be sure to check that the metal adhesive meets your needs, that it is suitable for outdoor use and that it has a drying time that is comfortable for your needs.