How to use super glue— the ultimate adhesive

Not exactly sure what super glue is used for? To find out how to use super glue, check out this short guide! 

Super glue is the common name for cyanoacrylate adhesive, a fast-acting, strong and moisture-resistant glue that forms an almost instant bond to virtually any material. As such, its uses are practically endless. Super glue’s original use was designed for military purposes: in World War II, US scientists were developing clear plastic gun sights and discovered cyanoacrylate. While deemed too sticky for that particular project it was later formulated into a quick-drying and super-strong adhesive.

Because super glue bonds very quickly, preparation is important. It is always advisable to fit the pieces first—particularly in the case of broken glass or ceramics, because you don’t have much time to maneuver once the glued surfaces come together. You may also need clamps or tape to hold the pieces during the initial set-time.

This works on a variety of household items such as a broken vase, furniture piece, damaged plate, or picture frame. Just follow these steps:

1. Preparation is key. Have all the parts laid out and ready. It is best to pre-fit them first to make sure the surface areas match up. Make sure the surfaces to be glued are clean and dry—slightly roughen with sandpaper if necessary. You won’t need any tools but have plenty of tissue paper on hand and a glass of water to mop up any spillage.
2. Apply the adhesive to both surfaces. Just one drop should do it. Then bring the pieces together. Use firm pressure and hold for 15–30 seconds.  Leave the object undisturbed for 30 minutes and then put it to one side for 12–24 hours to allow the glue to fully cure.
3. Clean up: Cured adhesive may be cut away using a sharp blade or caulking removal tool. If necessary, you can loosen dried glue with acetone on a rag. Wash your hands in warm soapy water to remove all residue.

Super glue dries very quickly and although the tubes come in a variety of applicators with air-tight caps, sometimes the glue dries inside the bottle. This is usually because the cap hasn’t been tightened properly or the tube has been left open for too long. In this case just pour some hot water into a glass or a cup and allow it to cool a little before immersing the tube of glue and leaving it there for a couple of minutes. This will soften the glue enough to be usable again.

If you have an application that requires a high degree of flexibility, reach for LePage Ultra Gel Super Glue. With its special rubber toughened formula, this instant adhesive resists impact, shock, vibration, and temperature extremes, making it ideal for outside jobs like fixing garden furniture.

For projects that need pinpoint accuracy and super strength that sets in seconds, try LePage Super Liquid Pro. The liquid formula works well on a variety of porous and non-porous surfaces and, thanks to a patented additive, it works faster and holds stronger than ordinary instant adhesives.