Whether you are doing home renovations or working on a project, getting the best glue for hard plastic can guarantee success. You might be tempted to use wood glues or ordinary white glues for your work since people assume that common adhesives will work on plastic as well. However, acting on this misconception can prove detrimental to whatever you are trying to fix or make.
Contents
What is Plastic Glue?
Plastic is smooth and lacks a porous surface, making it difficult for many adhesives to form permanent bonds. Consequently, it is essential to buy plastic glue as it has been specifically designed to properly bond with the smooth surfaces of the material. After all, you may not complete the repairs if the target material is difficult to work with.
If you have a project to complete or merely want a handy helper in the house when gluing plastic, we have you covered. Please scroll through our recommendations for the best glue for hard plastic or learn more about how you can buy the right product for your needs.
5 Best Glue for Hard Plastic
1. Gorilla Super Glue
- Impact Tough: Unique rubber particles increase impact resistance and...
- Anti Clog Cap: Keeps glue from drying out. It's Gorilla Tough use...
- Fast-setting: Dries in 10-45 seconds, no clamping required
- Versatile: Bonds plastic, wood, metal, ceramic, rubber, leather,...
- Best for instant repairs on smaller indoor projects
The Gorilla Super Glue is the tool you want in your corner if you want to repair plastic toys, leaks in PVC pipes, plastic bowls and other kitchen equipment. Although sanding smooth plastics is essential, this high-quality glue will create an impressively robust chemical bond.
Additionally, the Gorilla Super Glue has a unique formula that includes rubber particles. The mixture makes the bonding plastic impact-resistant. Finally, this product is considered one of the best glue for plastic since it also works well on leather, metal, rubber, ceramics, paper and wood.
Pros
- You do not need to clamp as the glue dries in 10 to 45 seconds.
- The super glue is versatile.
- The anti-clog cap will ensure the glue does not dry out.
- Creates an impact-resistant bond thanks to the rubber particles in the glue.
- Just one drop is enough for a square inch of plastic surface.
Cons
- It does not work on polypropylene and polyethylene plastics.
2. J-B Weld 50139 Plastic Bonder Body Panel Adhesive and Gap Filler
- Plasticbonder: Is A Quick-Set, 2 Part, Urethane Adhesive System That...
- Count On Us: For More Than 40 Years, Our Products Have Earned A Loyal...
- Simple To Use: J-B Plasticbonder Has A 1:1 Mixing Ratio, Sets In 15...
- Versatile And Dependable: Perfect For Indoor Or Outdoor Use, Epoxy &...
One of the best glue for plastic-to-plastic bonding is the J-B Weld 50139 Plastic Bonder Body Panel Adhesive and Gap Filler. This product will form permanent bonds that will require an enormous amount of strength to break once fully cured.
Moreover, the plastic glue is encased in an innovative container that helps you bond plastic without worrying about making a mess or wasting the product. Finally, the syringe design lets you use it a little at a time to save on glue.
Pros
- A re-sealable cap ensures the plastic glue does not dry or leak.
- Syringe design saves on the glue used.
- Excellent for plastic-to-plastic use.
- It can also work on fiberglass, metal, concrete and ceramics.
Cons
- The plastic glue emits toxic fumes.
- It is not the right plastic glue if you are concerned about its black color.
3. J-B Weld 8272 MarineWeld Marine Epoxy
- J-B WELD MARINEWELD: A two-part epoxy cold weld system that provides...
- CURE AND SET TIME: After mixing the tubes at a 1:1 ratio, it takes 4-6...
- VERSATILE AND DEPENDABLE: J-B Weld MarineWeld is steel reinforced, has...
- SURFACE APPLICATIONS: Aluminum, Fiberglass, Metal, Plastic/Composite,...
- DO IT YOURSELF: Big or small, you can DIY it with J-B Weld. Our heavy...
If the open waters or the docks are your home, you need to find the best glue for plastic that can withstand the wet conditions of your area. The J-B Weld 8272 MarineWeld Marine Epoxy delivers reliable service when repairing or fastening things on and around your boat.
The impressive strength offered by this plastic glue extends to materials like metal, composite, aluminum, wood and fiberglass. Although it may take 16-24 hours to cure, you are guaranteed a reliable bond that you can drill, sand, mold or tap.
Pros
- Heat resistant up to 550 degrees Fahrenheit.
- The glue is waterproof.
Cons
- It is dark grey when it sets, making it unsuitable for projects that require clear glue.
- Unlike quick-drying super glue, this one takes 4-6 hours to set.
4. Gorilla 5201204- 12 White Glue
- Incredibly strong and versatile; The leading multi-purpose waterproof...
- 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,...
- Incredibly Strong: Expands 3 times into the materials to form an...
If you are handling a project that is sensitive to leaking or working to repair plastic equipment with similar constraints, the Gorilla5201204-12 will bond plastic together with no room left for leaks. In addition, the plastic glue is designed to expand to three times its original size after you have applied it. Hence, the product is suitable for flexible plastics or extra rough surfaces where gaps may be a problem.
Since the plastic glue expands, you may not need to use that much to achieve the desired bonds. Plus, although the application may be a bit tedious since you need to dampen the plastic surfaces before using it, the bonds are long-lasting.
Pros
- The waterproof glue is not affected by weather elements.
- Expands, when applied to increase the strength of the bond.
- It is affordable.
- It will work on stone, foam, wood, concrete, glass and ceramics.
Cons
- It dries white and may not be suitable if you want clear glue.
- Clamping is necessary.
5. DAP Polyurethane Construction Adhesive and Sealant
- Adhesives & Sealants
- Country of manufacture: United States
- Manufacturer: Dap
- A high-performance sealant offers superior adhesion to a wide variety...
- 50-year durability guarantee
The DAP Polyurethane Construction Adhesive and Sealant is the strongest glue on our list as it comes with a 50-year guarantee. If you want to make durable and reliable home fixes, it is the product to buy as it works on numerous substrates.
Moreover, the bonds formed are powerful yet flexible and allow you to paint over them. The plastic glue is thick enough to ensure that there are no porous gaps left. Consequently, you do not have to think about weather elements messing up your repairs.
Pros
- It creates a flexible bond.
- It comes with a durability guarantee of 50 years, making it ideal for doing repairs.
- It has adhesive and sealant qualities.
- Resists impacts, heat and cuts.
- The plastic glue will not degrade when permanently submerged underwater.
Cons
- The plastic glue is quite harmful if it comes in contact with bare skin.
How Can I Find the Best Glue for Hard Plastic?
a). What are the types of glue for plastic?
1. Super Glue or Cyanoacrylate
Cyanoacrylate, or super glue, forms a chemical bond due to anionic polymerization when mixed with the hydroxyl ions found in water. Consequently, the substance requires water, typically derived from the air’s humidity, to strongly bond to most kinds of surfaces. Still, the strength of the bond greatly diminishes if you are trying to glue hard plastic together.
As a result, it is best to scratch or scuffs the smooth surfaces of the plastic before you apply your super glue. Moreover, the substance can be corrosive, and it may also discolor some types of plastics and acrylics.
2. Model Cement
Model cement combines solvents and a filler for plastic bonding. The former ingredient includes substances like dichloromethane, butanone and toluene, and it is meant to melt the surface of the plastic. Afterward, the filler does the job of welding the two surfaces together.
However, plastic cement works well with plastic-to-plastic bonding. So, if you are working on some plumbing on ABS and PVC piping, this adhesive will be instrumental. However, when the target material includes stone, ceramics, wood, metal or concrete, you will require a different glue for the job.
3. Epoxy
An epoxy glue consists of two fluids that combine to create one of the strongest, long-lasting, and water-resistant adhesives currently on the market. The resin and a hardener combination make expoxy reliable when gluing rubber, metal, wood, ceramics, and most plastics.
If you are working on a big project, you may need clamps when bonding plastic, as some versions of the epoxy adhesive can take up to 12 hours to dry. Still, waterproof glue is essential if you deal with repairs involving devices or equipment used under wet conditions.
4. Multi-Purpose Glue
Multi-purpose glues can be used in a craft project for school, at the woodworking shop or in scenarios that do not require specialized bonding. However, evaporation and a porous surface are vital for reliable bonding. Thus, hard plastics pose a significant challenge if you want to use this product.
Since the kind of plastic has a bearing on which glue would be the right adhesive, it is vital to understand the different types of the material.
b). Plastic Type
1. Polyethylene Plastics: High and Low-Density Variants
High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is the main material used when creating plastic devices and equipment that needs to be strong. Toys, tiles and some types of furniture rely on HDPE for the solidity and robustness it offers.
Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is used to make device components, plastic bags and storage containers for home use. As the name suggests, the products made with this material will not be as strong as the high-density plastics.
2. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
Polyvinyl chloride is a versatile material used in everything from your child’s toys to the plumbing in your home. The flexible plastics are soft while still offering malleability and durability.
3. Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS)
Some of us have had the tagedy of experiencing the searing pain resulting from steeping on a Lego barefooted. Plus, most of us have run across a meme concerning how strong and nasty Legos can be. Acrylonitrile Butadiene-Styrene is the culprit as it is the common material used for making tough toys.
4. Acrylic
The transparent nature of acrylic makes it an excellent material for use in glass replacements. Additionally, the plastic is used in making tiles to spruce up your kitchen, cabinets, picture frames or help you with increasing aesthetic appeal in your project.
5. Polypropylene
Polypropylene is another versatile plastic that is used to make numerous cutlery and items for the kitchen. From straws to bottle caps and reusable items for eating or drinking, you can find this plastic material nearly everywhere in your home.
c). Details of Your Project
If you have a crafting project that requires reliable bonding or you want to fix something expensive, buying a high-quality and powerful adhesive for the job is advisable. But, admittedly, you may need to dig a little deeper in your pocket to ensure the product you get does not cause more harm than good.
d). Where to Apply
As mentioned above, you need to think about the kind of plastic and whether you want to bond plastic to plastic or some other material before buying the right glue for the job. If you need to work with numerous materials, it is best to look for a product that can form a chemical bond.
On the other hand, it is smart to determine the plastic type before choosing a product if you are merely dealing with plastic parts. Still, regardless of this information, you need to employ certain tactics to ensure the bond you create is strong.
e). Do’s and Don’ts of Gluing Plastic
Using the best plastic glue may not guarantee the success of your project, as working with the material requires careful preparation to ensure the bond lasts. Start by cleaning the plastic surface with soap and water. However, be careful not to touch it afterward, as the oil on your skin will make the glue less effective.
Secondly, make marks or scuffs on the non-porous material to increase the surface area for the glue to work. Steel wool or sandpaper are excellent for this job. Still, some plastic glues come with the necessary tools to help you roughen the surfaces.
Plastic glues are quite strong, so an applicator is essential for ensuring the process does not get a bit messy, or you get some on your skin. Some products ship with the necessary tools, which can save you the trouble. Alternatively, you can use a tiny brush, a needle or a toothpick.
Plastic glues dry quickly; thus, you need to clean off any residue or spillage as soon as possible. If your project requires top-notch aesthetics or attention to detail, you can use mineral spirits or denatured alcohol to remove the excess after the glue sets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on the Best Glue for Hard Plastic
1. What glue works on hard plastic?
Products that can chemically bond plastic-to-plastic such as plastic cement, super glues and epoxy are reliable. These variations are ideal when the material you work with has a non-porous surface where common adhesives are rendered ineffective.
2. Does Gorilla Glue work on hard plastic?
Apart from polypropylene and polyethylene plastics, Gorilla Glue will work well on the other types of plastics. On the plus side, the product also does a fantastic job of bonding wood, leather ceramics, metal and paper.
3. How do you fix hard plastic?
When fixing hard plastics, it is vital to clean the surfaces and scruff them before applying the glue. These steps ensure you can maintain the effectiveness of the adhesive by allowing the chemicals to act unhindered on the surface. In addition, you should strive to use a small tool for applying the glue so that you do make a mess.
