Learn how to use 5-minute epoxy in this short article and make your repairs in a snap. Not only is this adhesive fast drying, it’s also super strong and will bond to nearly anything.
Many ordinary types of glue are slow to dry and require the bonded parts to fit tight. But you have alternative choices. While there are other fast-setting glues, nothing really compares to epoxy for repairing broken items.
5-minute 2-part epoxy consists, like most epoxies, of a resin and a hardener. Once mixed, a reaction begins turning both components into a super-hard adhesive. It has several advantages, including the ability to fill large gaps. This gives 5-minute epoxy the ability to join broken parts that don’t fit snugly. Epoxy can also fill the gap between different materials, such as a stone veneer and a fireplace mantle.
If you do repairs around the home, you’ll find many uses for this fast-drying epoxy glue.
Quick epoxy glue is easy to use, thanks to handy dual-syringe dispensers. Two-part epoxies consist of a resin and a hardener which must be mixed before use. The dispensers measure out equal amounts at the same time for easy mixing. Epoxies come in various formulas with different setting times. Following are general instructions for using 5-minute epoxy.
- Sand the surfaces to be glued to dull a glossy finish and create a tighter fit. Wipe away any dust.
- Put on your safety equipment. Wearing gloves and safety glasses is recommended when working with epoxy.
- Dispense an appropriate amount of the adhesive onto a scrap piece of cardboard, wood, or another material. Mix thoroughly with a disposable mixing stick, such as a paint stirrer or tongue depressor.
- Use your mixing stick or a plastic spatula to apply the epoxy to one surface.
- Press the parts together, ensuring that the epoxy is in contact with both pieces. Hold the item securely or use tape or clamps until the epoxy sets.
- 5-minute epoxy will start to set in 5 minutes and reaches handling strength in 1 hour.
- Use a cloth and mineral spirits to wipe away any excess glue before it sets. (Cured adhesive must be carefully cut away with a razor blade.)
One of the best general repair epoxies is Loctite Epoxy Instant Mix 5 Minute. It ticks all the boxes: fast setting, easy to mix with its dual dispenser, does not shrink or crack, and can even be sanded and drilled once set. The adhesive bonds to metal, glass, ceramic, wood, plastic, and masonry materials. It’s also weather resistant and can be used outdoors.
Loctite Epoxy Gel has similar properties but comes with a thicker consistency, so it won’t run or drip. It’s perfect for vertical and overhead applications and sets in about 6 minutes.