10 best exterior wood glues

Exterior wood glue is a type of adhesive specifically formulated for bonding wood surfaces in outdoor applications. It is designed to withstand exposure to the elements, including moisture, temperature fluctuations, and UV radiation. Here's what you need to know about exterior wood glue:

  1. Water Resistance: One of the key features of exterior wood glue is its water resistance. It is formulated to resist moisture, rain, and humidity, which are common outdoor conditions that can compromise the integrity of standard wood glue.

  2. Durability: Exterior wood glue is designed to provide a strong and durable bond that can withstand the stresses of outdoor use, including the expansion and contraction of wood due to temperature changes.

  3. UV Resistance: Many exterior wood glues are also UV-resistant, which means they can withstand exposure to sunlight without deteriorating or becoming brittle. This is important for applications where the glue will be exposed to direct sunlight.

  4. Applications: Exterior wood glue is commonly used for various outdoor woodworking projects, such as:

    • Building and repairing outdoor furniture
    • Constructing decks and fences
    • Making garden structures like trellises and arbors
    • Repairing wooden siding on homes
    • Assembling outdoor wooden structures like pergolas and gazebos
  5. Types: There are different types of exterior wood glue available, including:

    • Polyurethane-based: These glues are highly water-resistant and provide a strong bond. They are suitable for a wide range of outdoor applications.
    • Polyvinyl acetate (PVA) based: These are also known as "waterproof" or "weatherproof" wood glues and are designed for outdoor use.
    • Epoxy-based: Epoxy wood glues offer exceptional strength and durability and can be used for both interior and exterior applications.
    • Resorcinol-based: This type of glue is highly resistant to moisture and is often used for marine and outdoor applications.
  6. Preparation: Before applying exterior wood glue, it's important to ensure that the wood surfaces to be bonded are clean and dry. Removing any existing finishes or contaminants will help improve the adhesive's performance.

  7. Application: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying and clamping the glue. In most cases, clamping the bonded pieces together while the glue dries is essential to achieve a strong bond.

  8. Curing Time: Exterior wood glue typically requires some curing time to reach its maximum strength. Be patient and allow the recommended drying time before subjecting the bonded wood to stress or outdoor conditions.

When using exterior wood glue for outdoor projects, it's crucial to select the right type of glue for your specific application and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for the best results.Properly bonded wood surfaces will not only ensure the longevity of your outdoor projects but also enhance their appearance and structural integrity.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best exterior wood glues on the market
  

Gorilla 6206005 Wood Glue, 36 ounce Bottle, Natural Wood Color, (Pack of 1)

Gorilla

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Gorilla Wood Glue is the reliable adhesive that woodworkers, carpenters and hobbyists trust for their woodworking projects. Gorilla Wood Glue, a PVA glue, offers the benefits of an easy-to-use water based adhesive. Gorilla Wood Glue's premium formula creates a cross-linking bond to provide superior strength indoors or out.

  • Complete Projects Fast: Requires only 20-30 minutes of clamp time, fully cured in 24 hours.
  • Use Indoors or Outdoors: Passes ANSI/HPVA Type II water resistance.
  • Versatile: Ideal for use on hardwoods, softwoods, and natural wood composites.
  • Dries natural color: Offering a natural bond line.
  • Compliant with FDA standards for indirect food contact.

User questions & answers

Question: Can you use my is glue for a mirror wooden leg
Answer: Just be sure to allow glue to cure before exposing piece to water (or severe moisture)!!!!!!
Question: Is this glue apprpriate for gluing a bottom chair brace intp the chair leg
Answer: This is a poor choice for gluing glass to anything . I'd use a silicon caulk / glue instead .
Question: How can I get the glue out of the bottle and it new
Answer: Below 50 degrees any PVA (polyvinyl acetate/yellow or white glue) doesn't develop as strong a bond and takes days to set. As this product contains a certain amount of water, it is suggested that your glue be set in a mild temperature.
Question: This advertisement says $10 for 36 ounce bottle? I'm buying this now incase it was a mistake and grabbing that deal
Answer: I assume you mean "is it safe for pets?" Although ingestion should be avoided and a poison center or vet should be called as a precaution, This glue is indeed considered non-toxic and therefore generally safe for pets. In regards to wood glue that is unsafe for pets; Be sure to avoid glues that foam as they dry, like Gorilla Glue and other polyurethane glues (avoid any glue that contains diphenylmethane diisocyanate - also known as MDI - as the active ingredient). The foaming/expanding glues will expand after ingested and can form a blockage in your pets digestive tract requiring surgery.

J-B Weld 8251 WoodWeld Quick Setting Wood Epoxy Adhesive - 1.52 oz.

J-B Weld

Based on 799 reviews Check latest price

Product description

J-B Wood Weld is a fast setting two-part epoxy system formulated for wood bonding and repairs. When fully cured it can be shaped, tapped, filed, sanded and drilled. It provides a lasting permanent bond that is stronger than the wood! J-B Wood Weld has a 1: 1 mixing ratio, sets in 6 minutes and cures in 1-3 hours. Rated at a tensile strength of 1800 PSI, J-B Wood Weld cures to a light tan colour.

  • J-B Weld Woodweld: a fast setting two-part epoxy system formulated for wood bonding and repairs. WoodWeld provides permanent and lasting bonds that are stronger than wood! Perfect for all indoor/outdoor wood DIY repair projects
  • Cure and set time: after mixing the tubes at a 1:1 ratio, it takes 6 minutes to set and 1-3 hours to cure. Once cured, WoodWeld can be painted, tapped, filled, sanded, molded and drilled. WoodWeld’s set and cure color is light tan
  • Versatile and depedable: J-B Weld WoodWeld has a tensile strength of 1800 PSI. The product will not shrink or foam allowing it to be used as a structural adhesive or filler. No clamping necessary due to the short set time
  • Applications: indoor or outdoor projects, furniture, doors, windows, trim, molding, decks, wood restoration projects, rotting wood repair, and more
  • Do it yourself: big or small, you can DIY it with J-B Weld. Our heavy duty epoxy and adhesives repair & restore it right the first time. J-B Weld delivers superior performance, quality, and results for the World’s Strongest Bond

User questions & answers

Question: Can the mixed epoxy be injected with a syringe to ensure it fills a deep screw hole? Need to make sure the hole is filled in order to drill a new hole
Answer: You can certainly try. I am not sure it will be thin enough to fit in a syringe. I would use the original JB Weld (8265S) rather than the Wood Weld. It can be drilled and tapped and is the strongest product we have. Thanks JB Weld support
Question: Can I use this to repair chair legs that my dog chewed ver badly or should I use regular wood filler
Answer: This is much stronger than wood filler, you can only work with a little at a time though, it dries very quickly so I suppose it depends how many repairs you need to make. I would probably still use J-B Weld, the finished repairs will be much stronger. Don't know what sort of finish you want to use afterwards that would be a factor too. If you are painting over the repairs it will be great for that.
Question: can one drill and srew into it
Answer: Yes, but I would always drill a pilot hole before screwing in a wood or sheet metal screw,
Question: What is highest temperature a cured joint can withstand
Answer: It's made for wood, so if wood burns then that is the highest temperature it can withstand.

Product features

Quick Setting Epoxy

WoodWeld is a fast setting two-part epoxy system formulated for wood bonding and repairs. When fully cured it can be shaped, tapped, filed, sanded and drilled. It provides a lasting permanent bond that is stronger than wood! WoodWeld has a 1:1 mixing ratio, sets in 6 minutes and cures in 1-3 hours. Rated at a tensile strength of 1800 PSI, WoodWeld will cure to a light tan color.

Additional Attributes

  • WoodWeld will not shrink or foam allowing it to be used as a structural adhesive or as a filler.
  • 6 minute set time eliminates the need for clamping.
  • WoodWeld can be used on wood repairs inside or outside!

Titebond 1416 III Ultimate Wood Glue, 1-Gallon, Tan

Titebond

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Finally, waterproof wood glue without the mess! Titebond III wood glue is waterproof, yet it cleans up with water. Unlike polyurethane glues, there is no foaming and it doesn't stain your hands. Plus it's vastly stronger, safer and less expensive than polyurethane glues. It allows eight minutes of open assembly time and offers an application temperature as low as 47 degrees. The maker of Titebond III says that their new formula is a "natural progression of tradition and excellence." We see it as the ultimate wood glue!

  • Waterproof formula that cleans up with water
  • Superior strength
  • Designed for interior and exterior applications
  • Unaffected by finishes
  • Approved for indirect food contact

User questions & answers

Question: would this glue be good for bow building
Answer: It does not include any glue. You can fill it with the glue of your choice.
Question: Is this marine grade glue? I'm building a wooden boat and am curious how well it will last
Answer: Yes, they come with the cap lanyard.
Question: How long does this glue last (i.e. shelf-life
Answer: You have to unscrew the top cap and put more glue in the bottle, in my experience it works much better this way.
Question: Would this be good to make a cutting board with
Answer: It's made from robot horses

Product features

Titebond 1416 III Ultimate Wood Glue

Description:

Titebond III Ultimate Wood Glue is the first one-part, water cleanup wood glue ever offered that is proven waterproof. The waterproof formula passes the ANSI/HPVA Type I water-resistance specification and offers superior bond strength, longer open assembly time and lower application temperature. Titebond III is non-toxic, solvent free and cleans up with water - safer to use than traditional waterproof wood glues. It provides strong initial tack, sands easily without softening and is for indirect food contact (cutting boards). The ultimate in wood glues - ideal for both interior and exterior applications.

  • Passes ansi/hpva type I water-resistance
  • Waterproof formula that cleans up with water
  • Superior strength - strong initial tack
  • Designed for interior and exterior applications
  • Longer open assembly time
  • Lower application temperature
  • Unaffected by finishes

Titebond H6838 - III Ultimate Wood Glue, 16 oz.

Titebond

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Aliphatic resin glue is used by more than 95% of instrument builders due to its unique properties. Titebond Original Wood Glue is the industry standard for aliphatic resin wood glue.

  • Provide a much stronger bond than the wood itself
  • Offer excellent heat-resistance and are very easy to sand
  • Are water cleanup while still wet
  • Provide strong initial tack and a 30-minute clamp time
  • Conform to ASTM D4236 – Non-toxic and safe to use

User questions & answers

Question: Would titebond iii work well adhering wine corks to a mirror
Answer: With a non-slip concave design and a portable handle buckle,the bottle is very easy to carry. And the bottle is very light in weight, about 210g.Nice for working!
Question: Is it clear when it dries
Answer: This bottle keeps you accountable on a subconscious level.It is marked to make sure that your daily water intake is on track.
Question: i'm planning to make an arched laminate wood beam about 14 foot long 2 x 6, is this glue strong enough to hold the beam together
Answer: This bottle is made of food-grade BPA Free eco-friendly plastic which is free from plastic taste and odors.
Question: Since this glue "cleans up with water" (yet its water proof?), if i use this in joints, on an outdoor bench, willrain affect the glue
Answer: You just need to unscrew the cap, then it becomes a wide-mouth bottle, there is no problem putting fruit into it!

Product features

Titebond III Ultimate Wood Glue

Description:

Titebond III Ultimate Wood Glue is the first one-part, water cleanup wood glue ever offered that is proven waterproof. The waterproof formula passes the ANSI/HPVA Type I water-resistance specification and offers superior bond strength, longer open assembly time and lower application temperature. Titebond III is non-toxic, solvent free and cleans up with water - safer to use than traditional waterproof wood glues. It provides strong initial tack, sands easily without softening and is for indirect food contact (cutting boards). The ultimate in wood glues - ideal for both interior and exterior applications.

Features:

  • Passes ansi/hpva type I water-resistance
  • Waterproof formula that cleans up with water
  • Superior strength - strong initial tack
  • Designed for interior and exterior applications
  • Longer open assembly time
  • Lower application temperature
  • Unaffected by finishes

Titebond 5003 II Premium Wood Glue, 8-Ounces

Titebond

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Wood Glue, Premium, Exterior, Size 8 oz., Honey Cream, Temp. Range Above 55 Degrees F, Curing Time 24 hrs., Application Time 5 min., VOC Content 5.5 g/L, Viscosity 4000cP, Tensile Strength 3750 psi, Substrates For Exterior Woods, Water Resistant, Weatherproof, Can Be Sanded, Unaffected By Finishes, Water Cleanup, Ideal For Radio Frequency (R-F) and Hot Press Gluing Systems, ANSI Type II, FDA Approved For Indirect Food Contact

From the Manufacturer

Titebond II Premium Wood Glue. The first leading brand, one-part PVA wood glue to pass the ANSI/HPVA Type II water-resistance specification. It is ideal for exterior woodworking projects, including outdoor furniture, birdhouses, planters, mailboxes and picnic tables. Titebond II Premium Wood Glue offers strong initial tack, outstanding bond strength, fast speed of set and excellent sandability. It is FDA approved for indirect food contact (cutting boards) and is ideal for radio-frequency (R-F) gluing systems. It is easy to use, non-toxic, solvent free and cleans up with water.

  • Adhesives & Sealants
  • Country of manufacture: United States
  • Manufacturer: Titebond
  • Excellent Water-resistance
  • Ideal for Exterior Applications
  • Strong Initial Tack-Fast Set
  • Excellent Sandability
  • Outstanding bond strength

Titebond III Ultimate Wood Glue, 8 oz.

Titebond

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Superior waterproof wood glue is ideal for exterior and interior woodworking! Stronger, safer, easier to clean up and less expensive than polyurethane glues. Allows eight minutes of open time and works in application temperatures as low as 47 F.







  • Superior waterproof wood glue is ideal for exterior and interior woodworking!
  • One hour clamp time!
  • Cleans up with water.

User questions & answers

Question: I am putting a new piece of wood to an old dresser top. Is this a good product for that
Answer: I suppose it would, but it depends on the purpose...if the wine corks are just meant to be decorative then almost any glue would work. But if the corks are going to see any pressure on them after installation I'd probably use 2-part quickset epoxy (ie, 5-minute). Also, depending on how many corks you plan to glue on, only mix as much epoxy as you can use before it starts to set up. Experiment.
Question: Is this glue stainable
Answer: Dried Film Light Brown
Question: can it be use for exterior use, like on a cedar deck
Answer: I realize this is an old question, but...some overly complex answers there! Yes this is the strongest of the titebond 1,2, or 3. So its strong enough for sure, but still not the best option. As one of the other answers points out titebond 3 has a short open time, so I'd recommend going with a glue that has a longer open time so have time to do adjusting/clamping/shaping.... Also look for a glue that has low 'creep' to reduce spring back, and use as many laminations as you can. I'd recommend either an epoxy, such as SystemThree or a urea resin such as Unibond 800 for structural glue-lams. Both have rigid glue lines, are gap filling, and have long open-times.
Question: Do you think this would work well for regluing an acoustic guitar bridge
Answer: Cleanup with water but when it dries get out the sandpaper. Have used it in a laminated bench that has set out three years summer thru winter.

Titebond II Glue, 16 Ounces

Titebond

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Water resistant and needs no mixing! It's the first one-part glue to pass Type II water resistant testing. Use it for all your projects that may be exposed to moisture - signs, furniture, toys, marine and more. Not for use under water. Freeze/thaw stable, paintable, solvent free and non-toxic.

  • Setting time 10-30 minutes, depending on temperature and moisture of wood.
  • Allow 24 hours for full strength bond.
  • Non-toxic, non-flammable
  • Water clean-up.
  • Its the first one-part glue to pass Type II water resistant testing.

User questions & answers

Question: How much setup time does this allow (i.e., how much fiting time does it allow before it starts to set
Answer: Yes
Question: what do you use for clean up or spillage
Answer: Would say yes to this question, but make sure your glue lines are kept to a minimum and wait for it to completely dry.
Question: Where do l find push carts
Answer: Go to http://www.titebond.com/product.aspx?id=e8d40b45-0ab3-49f7-8a9c-b53970f736af where it says The ultimate in wood glues - ideal for both interior and exterior applications.
Question: What’s the difference in the 5006 and
Answer: I am a part-time luthier. I use this almost exclusively to build instruments...all parts. The problem you are going to have is getting the bottom of bridge and the area you are seating it in perfectly flat. The second problem is clamping it. You have to clamp this glue for it to work correctly. You could build a clamp that goes through the soundhole....or go with the $2-300 option and get one premade from stew-mac or luthier's mercantile.

Gorilla Wood Glue, 18 ounce Bottle, (Pack of 2)

Gorilla

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Gorilla wood glue is the adhesive that woodworkers, carpenters and hobbyists trust for their woodworking projects. Gorilla wood glue, a PVA glue, offers the benefits of an easy-to use, water-based adhesive, with the holding power Gorilla is known for. This PVA glue is incredibly water resistant and Dries a natural color that offers an invisible bond line For your projects. Directions: for best results, it is essential that the wood surfaces are prepared prior to application of glue. For laminating, the surfaces should be planed smooth, leaving the board surface free from machine marks, tear-out and snipes. Also, be careful to avoid burnishing and end snipes. In general, apply a generous amount of glue on one of the surfaces. On hard-to-glue woods, apply the glue on both surfaces. Rub together with the other surface to distribute the glue evenly on both surfaces. Enough glue should be applied so that a fine bead of glue squeeze-out will occur when clamping. Coverage: one gallon of Gorilla wood glue will cover about 200 square feet. One fluid ounce will cover approximately 1.6 square feet. Clamping: the technique and type of clamp to be used is determined by many factors. In general, apply enough pressure that will cause a fine bead of glue to squeeze out when the proper pressure is applied. Clamping time (amount of time Pressure needs to remain applied): 20–30 minutes for room temperature applications. The temperature must be above 55°F. Note that clamping time can be dependent on temperature, humidity, and the porosity of the wood. Cure time (amount of time for glue to reach TOTAL bonding strength): 24 hours. Clean up while glue is wet: use a clean, damp cloth to wipe off excess glue. When areas have completely dried, sand as needed. Click on the Gorilla link at the top of this page to see other quality products from the Gorilla glue company.

  • Easy-to-use, water based adhesive with Gorilla holding power
  • Best for building, carpentry or hobby projects using any type of wood
  • Complete projects faster; requires only 20 - 30 minutes of clamp time, fully cured in 24 hours
  • Use indoors or outdoors; passes ansi/hpva type ii water resistance
  • Versatile; ideal for use on hardwoods, softwoods and natural wood composites

User questions & answers

Question: Is it better to paint the wood with primer before gluing the pieces together or just glue the parts without priming
Answer: I would say yes I made an entire TV stand with this glue it lasted over a year
Question: Can I use this glue for adding fresh concrete to dry one? Or attach 2 dry concrete elements (for sculpture, not heavy duty mansonry work
Answer: I use this to glue wood together even chair legs table legs I also reinforced by using wood screws hopefully this helps answering your question...
Question: i want to glue a wood table to a metal thing & can't use clamps will this work well
Answer: Yep the cap on these dang bottles will have you frustrated enough to trip your Momma. Take a deep breath and grab yer pliers. Save you from breakin stuff.
Question: does this expand the same as the origional after clamping
Answer: Yeah I was surprised at the size of the bottle. Terrific deal for me too

Gorilla Original Waterproof Polyurethane Glue, 4 ounce Bottle, Brown, (Pack of 1)

Gorilla

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The product that started it all. Original Gorilla Glue built a name for itself with its incredible, industrial holding power and versatility. The water activated polyurethane formula expands into materials to form an incredibly strong bond to virtually anything. Gorilla Glue is a 100% waterproof glue, safe for indoor and outdoor use and strong enough to stand up to the elements. Gorilla Glue’s your solution for almost any project or repair. Sand it, paint it, stain it. Simply stated, it’s the Toughest Glue on Planet Earth. Directions: 1. Prepare and Dampen the Surfaces: All surfaces must be clean, dust free and tight fitting. For shiny surfaces, such as metals, glass and some plastics, roughen up the material to give the glue something to bite into. Lightly dampen one surface with water. We recommend using a damp cloth or spraying with water. Do not saturate the surface. For dense hardwoods, lightly dampen both surfaces prior to gluing. 2. Evenly Apply Gorilla Glue Onto the Dry Surface. Carefully apply onto the dry surface. Do not over apply. We recommend wearing gloves or spreading the glue with a disposable brush. 3. Clamp the Two Surfaces Together Tightly. Make sure the clamping pressure is distributed evenly across the surface. Or, if you don’t have a clamp, use heavy objects or Gorilla Tape to achieve the appropriate clamping pressure. Clamp objects for 1–2 hours. For best results, allow 24 hours to cure. 4. Clean up: If you need to remove any uncured “squeeze out” or wet glue, we recommend wiping with a dry cloth or using a standard paint thinner. Once the glue is dry, it is best removed mechanically: Try sanding, chiseling, scraping or picking. 5. Storage Tips: After each use, wipe the bottle’s lid and nozzle clean with a dry cloth. While still squeezing, tightly replace the cap and then store in a cool, dry place. You should expect a year shelf life. Click on the Gorilla link at the top of this page to see more fine products from the Gorilla Glue Company.

  • Imported
  • Incredibly strong and versatile; The leading multi-purpose waterproof glue
  • Best for tough repairs on dissimilar surfaces, both indoors and out
  • 100% Waterproof; Doesn't break down when exposed to outdoor elements
  • Versatile; Easily bonds wood, stone, metal, ceramic, foam, glass, concrete and much more!
  • Incredibly Strong: Expands 3 times into the materials to form an incredibly strong bond

User questions & answers

Question: Has anyone glued marble
Answer: YUP works good.
Question: Is this clear colored when dried
Answer: No it does not drie clear, It dries with a beige color. It also expands a good bit after application so use cautiously.
Question: is gorilla glue food safe
Answer: can gorilla glue be used to repair food dishes
Question: Will this glue work on shoe insoles to prevent slipping
Answer: It would likely hold well, but dry to lumpy for comfort for insoles. I've used it to glue soles on slippers which works well, and holds for a long time.Used shoe glue in the past for outer soles, and found it worthless, which is why I tried Gorlla this time.

Gorilla 6231501 Wood Glue, 1 gallon Bottle, Natural Wood Color, (Pack of 1)

Gorilla

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Gorilla Wood Glue is the reliable adhesive that woodworkers, carpenters and hobbyists trust for their woodworking projects. Gorilla Wood Glue, a PVA glue, offers the benefits of an easy-to-use water based adhesive. Gorilla Wood Glue's premium formula creates a cross-linking bond to provide superior strength indoors or out.

  • Complete Projects Fast: Requires only 20-30 minutes of clamp time, fully cured in 24 hours.
  • Use Indoors or Outdoors: Passes ANSI/HPVA Type II water resistance.
  • Versatile: Ideal for use on hardwoods, softwoods, and natural wood composites.
  • Dries natural color: Offering a natural bond line.
  • Compliant with FDA standards for indirect food contact.

User questions & answers

Question: What is the shear strength capacity
Answer: This glue will form a tight bond in about 10 to 30 seconds and sets in about two minutes.
Question: Does it work for boatbuilding and bottom of boat
Answer: Not really. It can be cut and drilled through but the glue is a non-viscosious material intended for gluing 2 pieces of wood together. I never have any squeeze out so I've never had to sand it.
Question: Is it stainable
Answer: Krazy Glue is ethyl cyanoacrylate.
Question: What's the open period for this glue
Answer: Great question! This wood glue sets in minutes—no overnight dry time.

Latest Reviews

View all