The Best Glue for Particle Board Projects

What is a Particle board?

Particle board, or particleboard, is a low-density fiberboard (LDF). This is an engineered product that is mainly made of wood shavings, sawdust, and sawmill surplus. All these materials are mixed with resins and then highly compressed at a high temperature to give a board shape.

A colored film is used as the top layer that emulates designs like veneer, stones, or any irregular jacquard.

Particle board is not resistant to moisture and does not take paint well either. That is why most particle boards are covered with glued veneers.  And you will need a special type of glue to use with particle boards.

What is Particle Board Used for?

Particle boards are low-density fiberboards or chipboards. Particle board uses differ based on the properties. However, it is used basically for interior decoration, the inside lining of walls, and ceilings. Plus, you can also use it for floor decoration and roof cover.

Types of Glue for Laminating

Laminating has a wide definition when it comes to applying particle board. Woodcrafters use glue to create bonds between layers; this is called a lamination. The next type of lamination is to glue several planks of wood together and make a wide bed. The most common form of lamination is to attach a thin layer of wood veneer or jacquard plastic to the surface of the particle board. As we can see, there are several types of lamination processes, so one glue will not perform for all types of applications.

1. Polyvinyl Acetate (PVA) 

It is popular and widely praised as wood glue or carpenter’s glue. You can use it in two available colors. The clear glue goes with every type of general domestic purpose. Another glue is yellow, which is much stronger than the clear one; it has a longer open period while it remains liquid and effective. You have to use clamps to bond two pieces of board. Some varieties of PVA are waterproof.

2. Polyurethane Glue 

Polyurethane glue is slightly weaker than PVA and has the same open time. It is also called Gorilla Glue, as they first introduced this adhesive in the USA. You can apply it not only on particle boards but also on a long range of products including paper, metal, stone, foam, ceramic, glass, and even concrete. It is waterproof and fills gaps. You can use it for external lamination.

3. Contact Cement 

Contact cement, or contact glue, is a neoprene rubber that is carried in a water-based solvent. It is used mostly for surfaces that are nonporous, for which normal adhesive is not efficient. To laminate a large area like kitchen or bathroom countertops, contact cement is cost-friendly. You will need a clamp to get a stronger bond.

As cement glue can be emulsified into the solvent, you have to coat cement glue on the surfaces of both pieces of material; then allow the glue to dry, once the solvent evaporates, and the glue becomes tacky, press two pieces together with a clamp. You will get a flexible bond and no moisture exists there; that is why the cement bond is moisture-proof.

4. Urea Formaldehyde 

Urea Formaldehyde, also known as plastic resin glue or urea-methanol, is the most widely used adhesive in wood products. It is best used on curved wood. Carpenters like it most as it does not stretch and pull away at the sides of planks. You will need a clamp to make the two pieces join; the open time is the same as for PVA.

The glue is flexible enough to bond two wood pieces together with the same strength everywhere; even the press is not equal throughout the surface.

Product Reviews

Now we will check some of the best glues for different uses.

Best Glue for Particle Board- Gorilla Ultimate Waterproof Wood Glue

Whatever the size or complexity of your projects, you will always find a good solution from Gorilla. The Gorilla Ultimate Waterproof Wood Glue is ultimately formulated as particle board glue. It is strong and long-lasting and can resist water, humidity, and extreme temperatures. 

It is an ideal adhesive for outdoor applications where moisture and temperature are matters of concern. You can apply it at a temperature as low as 50° Fahrenheit. The glue comes in an 8-ounce plastic bottle.

It is easy to clean; you can remove excess glue, which comes out during clamping, with a wet cloth. Also scrape off the hardened glues when it dries.

Pros:

• Gorilla glue is waterproof glue. However, it easily cleans up with water when it is wet.
• The glue has a good thickness, and does not drip all over the place.
• It has an open assembly time of up to 15 minutes, during which you can spread it on the layer.
• Drying time is normally around 20-30 minutes. However, wait for 24 hours for the best cure.
• One of the best features you need in a wood glue is if it’s sandable and printable. And this glue allows you to do the same when it fully cures.
• It dries to a natural color, so apply it to any finished boards. Plus, it creates no foam.

Cons:

• The glue is thick, sometimes you may find it a bit hard to get out.
• The edges of the glue may dry up, you have to open the tip up and dig in with a pin.

Best Glue for Applying Paper to Particle Board- Lineco PVA Adhesive

Lineco Neutral pH Adhesive is a permanent adhesive. It comes in a plastic bottle, with 32 oz glue. It works great with every kind of engineered wood and hardwood; besides it performs well with paper, collage, framing, crafts, bookbinding, and in some fabrics.

It is one of the best glue for applying wallpaper to particle board, it makes a strong bond and you can easily apply it for mounting artworks. The thicker glue works as both adhesive and sealant.

Pros:

• Lineco PVA Adhesive is archival quality.
• Easy to apply at room temperature
• It has good lay flat properties.
• Buffered for added protection.
• The glue dries extremely fast and clear; you can use it with white particleboard application.
• It does not wrinkle paper or make any bubbles.

Cons:

• It is thicker glue, for some projects you may need to make it a little thinner.
• This glue becomes a rubbery chunk in a freezing condition, and will not return to its liquid state. Try to avoid ordering during freezing weather.

Best Glue for Dowels in Particle Board- Gorilla Clear Glue

Gorilla Clear Glue is an amazing glue that binds virtually everything. It comes with a 5.75 oz glue.  To get the best result, you need to apply 1/3 oz per square foot. Clamp two pieces for at least 2 hours, or allow 24 hours for best results.

Pros:

• It is water resistant and  good for indoor and outdoor use. Though you may not have outdoor use with a particleboard.
• It has an open time for 5 minutes, you have to move your board within this time.
• It becomes crystal clear.

Cons:

• Gorilla glue is a little irritating to eye and skin. 

Best Glue for Cabinets- Gorilla Polyurethane Glue

Gorilla 5021801 Waterproof Polyurethane Glue is an ideal glue compatible with a long range of materials like board, wood, foam, glass, ceramic, concrete, metal, and stone. The water-activated polyurethane formula expands three times into materials and bonds them at industrial strength.

To get the best result, dampen one surface and apply glue to the other surface, then clamp both pieces together tightly.

This Gorilla glue for laminate cabinets will protect your kitchen containers from getting penetrated by water.

The glue comes in an 8oz plastic bottle and each bottle contains 1 oz of brown glue.

Pros:

• Gorilla 5021801 is a great adhesive for cabinets. It will repair any kind of broken cupboard as it pressures itself into the tiniest crack.
• It is waterproof; use it to make laminated particle board in kitchen cabinets.
• It is self-spreading, the glue expands as it starts to set and hardens.
• It is stainable when it fully cures.
• Gorilla glue is mostly moisture activated, so it does work well on a slightly damp surface.
• You can easily remove the extra glue with a knife or sand it when it completely dries.

Cons:

• The glue may irritate the eye and skin. However, polyurethane glue produces a mild smell which is of its strong bonding agents.
• Sometimes it may produce allergic skin.
• Use a glove, try not to get it on your hand.

Best Glue for Mirror to Particle Board- Loctite Mirror Adhesive

PL 520 Mirror Mastic Adhesive is a popular choice for attaching mirrors to particle board projects. Only a few glues work well with mirrors, but this awesome product from the Loctite store will not frustrate you. 

Pros:

• PL 520 Mirror Mastic does not harm the mirror surface; build a safe, strong and permanent bond.
• It is easy to mount mirrors on particle boards.
• Good to use on a structurally sound surface.
• It bonds with a full cure time of 2 seconds, no need to spend a single minute on clamping.

Cons:

• It comes with a 12 pcs package. Therefore, some people may find it expensive.

Best Glue for Particle Board and Metal- Elmer’s Advanced ProBond

Elmer’s E7502 is another great glue for particle board, that attaches metal and board with a strong bond. It comes in a 4 oz bottle of clear glue.

It was developed for bonding porous surfaces to non-porous surfaces; therefore is an ideal adhesive to bond wood, concrete, and drywall to impermeable metal, glass, and ceramic. It takes 15-30 minutes to dry, in some cases, it can take several hours to completely dry.

Pros:

• Like all other Elmer’s good products, E7502 glue is also non-toxic.
• It does not create foam, hence it does not expand on flat surfaces and works great. 
• It is grey and dries clear, you need not worry to have stain on the transparent mirror surface.
• A great advantage is that it is paintable.
• It takes 

Cons:

• The glue is ideal for hard surface, not a suitable option for soft objects.

Best Glue for Laminating Wood- Titebond Tongue and Groove Glue

To laminate particle board and hardwood, you will need specialized glue, and you can count on Titebond Flooring Glue without a second thought. It does a fine job of framing and laminating all types of floors, including floating floors.

The budget-friendly priced adhesive comes in a 16-ounce bottle. To prevent the glue from drying out, shake well and apply it at room temperature. Storing in direct sunlight or freezing may harm the adhesive properties. 

Pros:

• This Titebond glue works even over a heat radiant system.
• It has good water resistance like the type 2.
• Originated in the USA, it has superior bond strength.

Cons:

• The glue can cause eye and skin irritation.

Best Glue for Particle Board Furniture- CAT PALM B-7000 Adhesive

CAT PALM B-7000 Adhesive is multifunctional semi-fluid glue; it performs excellent with glass, metal, wood, plastic, ceramics,  and jewelry. The pack combines 2 tubes, each one has 0.9oz clear glue. T works equally on both porous and non-porous layers.

It dries out within 6 minutes. To get the best cure, allow 24 hours.

Pros:

• It has a threaded needle, allowing small drops only.
• Its needle is not easy to clocked.
• The soft glue does not hurt your hands.
• The glue is clear and does not turn yellow. So it is convenient to use with white and transparent surface.
• It is waterproof glue and is insoluble in water.
• The glue is highly elastic, and can extend to 900%.
• The glue is soft with an anti-vibration attribute.
• It seals gas, liquid and air flow.

Cons:

• It has a little spiky odour.
• Some people might find the glue insufficient for longer use, however carefully using 2 packs will cover a large project.

Best Glue for Plastic to Particle Board- J-B Weld Epoxy

A better glue when it comes to bond plastics with particle boards. It is available in a cartridge form with 2oz glue. It is a hand-mixable & fast-setting epoxy putty adhesive.

Pros:

• It has a long shelf life, even 3 years when carefully used.
• The glue dries off-white.
• Its curing time is 3 hours, and it sets within 20-25 minutes.
• The glue does not shrink.
• The glue is paintable; also it is easy to drill, sand, and saw.
• It is drinking water safe

Cons:

• You need to cut the exact size for the repaired area, else it may fail to fix.

Best Glue for PVC to Particle Board- Gorilla PVC PrimaGlue

Gorilla Clear PVC PrimaGlue is probably the best glue to bond pieces of PVC and any kind of wood including particle boards. It also works to stop any leakage in PVC water pipes. An economical package that comes in a 4oz can.

The glue is clear, odorless, and non-flammable.

Pros:

• Gorilla Clear PVC PrimaGlue is a strong one; it creates an unbreakable bond between two pieces.
• You can clean up unexpected or extra glue with water.
• The glue is toxic-free and safe.
• You do not need a primer.
• The glue lasts for a long-time when carefully stored.

Cons:

• It has a low odor, but every PVC glue has the same. You have to allow little odor for a great fittings.

What to Consider Before Buying Glue for Particle Board

Now we have a good idea about which type of glue we have to use for particle board projects. There are some other properties that influence the performance, and we need to check them well before finalizing our purchase decision. We will check them one by one.

Water Resistance

The form of particle board is water-resistant, not waterproof. It will not stand against water flows or showers for a long time. While completely drowning in the water, the wood chips soak the water and get puffy, in extreme cases the board will collapse. Particle board is never used outdoors; hence water-resistant glue is not that much required to use with it.

However, to make kitchen cabinets, you will need a water-resistant adhesive. Most PVA and polyurethane glues are water-resistant, so you can use this adhesive. Plus, polyurethane glue is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

Temperature

Temperature is a crucial matter to choose the right glue for particle boards. These are mainly used for interior decoration and the temperature inside the home will not be extreme outside, so we should not be worried about extreme heat. However, If a glue works at a minimum temperature of 37 degrees, it is not likely to dry and set below 37. 

You should choose glue with a minimum degree of 50~60 Fahrenheit for general usage. Do not store glue inside freeze, the properties of bonding agents will be ruined. Below 50 degrees, PVA glue does not develop a strong bond and takes days to set. 

Visibility

Glues have different final finish colors when dry, like yellow, white, or clear.

• Yellow is the most suitable finished color for a hardwood finish look; it is still used with veneered or laminated boards.
• Melamine boards have a white surface; hence the glue that turns white is ideal for it.
• Clear glue is invisible when dry, so it goes well with almost any kind of particleboard. However, you can use different finish glues together to get the desired look on your interiors.

Thickness

Thinner glue is easier to use; it runs easily on the surface and edge of the particle board. However, it depends on necessity while selecting either thicker or thinner glue. Thinner glues dry faster than the thicker ones, it helps release extra work on the pieces that require holding to get joined.

While making furniture or cabinets, you need to set some pieces vertically. It is more difficult to get those vertical pieces bonded since thinner glue started running and dripping, to avoid this problem, you have to choose thick glue, like viscous type wood glue. However, thick glues squeeze out when you press the two pieces together.

Those extra glues will get hard after drying and the piece will look ugly. Unwanted glues disturb the smooth finish of the joint. So you have to wipe the extra glue off the joints.

Drying Time

Drying times of glue differ remarkably, some glues even take several hours to dry. So you should select glues carefully. You can hold two pieces of board yourself, or you can use a clamp. You do not need not to worry about putting in extra labor while using instant glue, just paste and the pieces get bonded.

However,  while the glue takes longer minutes to dry, you must choose a clamp. You should not hold pieces for longer times, a little movement will lose the bond.

Exposure

If you are using particle board to use in the kitchen or garden, where the boards will come in contact with water, you should not select the regular particle board glue. Regular glue will not stand against water and the quality will get ruined soon. So choose a high water-resistant glue in this case.

Different Types of Particle Board

Like any other engineered wood, particle boards are available in several variations. We will check the most common types in the following sections.

1. Single Layer Particle Board

Single-layer particleboard is flat and dense chipboard; which is made from same-sized wood grains. It is ideal for interior usage. It is not waterproof, however, it behaves water-resistant. It does not take paint, so painting will be a wrong choice; it is better to be veneered or plastic laminated to cover the core.

2. Three-Layer Particle Board

Two kinds of wood grains are used to produce a three-layer particle board; there are two layers of tiny wood dust on the outside, including larger wood grains as a mid-layer. More resin glue is applied on the outside tiny grain layer, hence the surface is smooth and good for painting.

3. Graded-Density Particle Board

The layers of the graded-Density particle board are the same as the previous boards. The difference is that one layer of rough wood shavings is in the middle of two layers of fine wood particles, all three layers are highly compressed. A graded-density board is a perfect choice to make cabinets. Also, you can use it for furniture.

4. Melamine Particle Board

The wood shavings in the Melamine particleboard are bonded with melamine-urea formaldehyde resin; wax emulsion is also used. Hence, it becomes water-resistant. On the top of the board, a decor paper is infused with melamine, and it turns out scratch resistant.

This board is good for use in wall paneling and cladding. As it resists water, you can use it to make modular kitchens and other furniture.

5. Cement-Bonded Particle Board

The variation of a cement-bonded particle board to other boards is the bonding agent; mainly magnesium-based cement or Portland cement is used for bonding glue. The ratio of the elements is maintained in a plain way where cement is 60%, wood shavings are 20%, and these two solid materials are mixed with 20% water. 

The cement-based agent makes the board resistant to moisture and fire. Also, it becomes termite and rot-resistant. Cement-bonded particle board is an ideal fit for indoor usage where humidity is high and general boards get easily affected & rotted; you can select this board for walls, false ceiling, subfloor; also you can use it to cover concrete. Another best use is to make fire-resistant furniture.

6. Veneered Particle Board

A veneered particle board is a regular one-layer or three-layer particleboard; the difference is it has a thin layer of wood infused outside, which is called veneer and is used on an average thickness of 3mm. Due to the veneer hardwood skin, this board is warping resistant and is ideal for use in decoration and furniture.

7. Laminated Particle Board

The Laminated particle board is similar in characteristics to the veneered particle board, the distinction is it has a lamination on the exterior. Due to the variation of unlimited patterns in lamination, you can use it for stylish pieces. It is a strong and long-lasting board.

Differences Between MDF, Particle Board, Plywood or Melamine?

MDF

MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) is a fiberboard; it is made from wood fibers mixed with resin & wax. The fiber comes from both hardwood and softwood, hence the quality differs. It is stronger than particle board, but does have the strength of plywood. As it is made of fine wood fibers, MDF is cheap; it is also easy to use, paint and cut to different shapes.

The major disadvantage is it is heavy; you will find your projects need more labor to move. You may find it difficult to mark on the surface and the cutting blade becomes blunt quickly.

Particle board

Particle boards are made of different materials including wood shavings and fine dust, all are waste wood. It is cheaper and lighter than other engineered boards. It is best for making shelves and partitions. However, it is not moisture-proof and fades easily. To protect it, veneer or lamination is applied on the surface.

You can not use screws, there is nothing solid inside to hold. The big disadvantage is that the particle board is fragile; to increase its strength, cement or melamine is mixed.

Plywood

Plywood is made from several wood veneers; all those long pieces are pressed together to make one sheet. It is heavier than MDF and board. The price and quality depend on the type of wood ply, adhesives, and manufacturing process; as it takes hardwood veneer, the thickness of plywood plays a vital role to fix the price. It has high strength and stability.

Melamine Board

Melamine board or melamine-faced chipboard is mainly laminated particle board; a wood chip covered with saturated paper. UF resin and MF resin are used to fix the paper on boards. This is a good quality board, ideal for indoor furniture, doors, and cabinets. It is easy to cut and install, with no chipping.

Melamine board has a high bending strength with moisture-proof quality, for which it is ideal to use in all temperatures. The melamine paper can be of various hardwood shapes, you can select teak, oak, chester, walnut, cherry, mahogany, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gluing Particle Board

Final Thoughts

The glue is a must-need tool. Particleboards are used for a lot of different types of indoor and outdoor projects. And the right glue will make it successful. Always read the instructions mentioned on the package.

We believe that you have found this article guide informative and useful in your quest. Happy creating.