How to glue glass to wood: Your DIY guide

Many types of glue have a hard time bonding to glass because it is a nonporous material. The smooth, hard surface will not allow ordinary glue to soak in and adhere. However, you can glue glass to wood with the right adhesive. First, consider the conditions the item will be subjected to:

• Do you need a flexible bond that will stand up to vibration or stress?
• Will the item be exposed to water or temperature extremes?
• Do you need an adhesive that will be transparent when dry?

Once you know the answers to these questions, you can choose a fitting adhesive for your project. Here are some examples.

For small projects and minor repairs, super glue can work wonders. It adheres well to both wood and glass, dries clear, and forms a strong bond.

If the item will be subject to temperature extremes, vibration, or frequent impact, choose a glue that remains permanently flexible. (We have some suggestions below.) Choose an adhesive that bonds to non-porous surfaces.

If there are gaps between the glass and the wood due to uneven edges or its irregular shape, you will need a gap-filling adhesive such as epoxy.

Will the bond cover a large area? Contact cement does a great job of attaching glass to wood on large flat surfaces.

Epoxy requires an extra step since it comes in two parts that begin to set upon mixing. Here are the steps to bonding with epoxy:

1. Wash the glass using glass cleaner or soap and water. Once the glass is completely dry, pre-fit the parts. For optimal adhesion, smooth surfaces can be roughened up with an emery board, just be sure to remove any dust after roughening.
2. Remove the cap and cut the tips off each syringe.
3. Point the syringe upward and pull the plunger back slightly. Allow air bubbles to rise to the top, then press the plunger to remove the air.
4. Press the plunger to dispense equal parts of resin and hardener onto a disposable surface.
5. Mix resin and hardener thoroughly for one minute, then immediately apply a small amount of adhesive to both surfaces.
6. Press the parts together and hold them in place until the epoxy begins to set.
7. Remove excess epoxy immediately. Tape or clamp the bonded items to prevent movement. Leave the item undisturbed for 24 hours.
8. Wipe the syringe tips clean and replace the caps.

One of our favourite adhesives for attaching glass to wood is Loctite Extreme Gel. This high-viscosity gel will stay in place, won’t drip or run, and never becomes brittle. It contains a unique Flextec formula that stands up to vibration, impact, wide temperature changes, and UV light. Extreme Gel fills gaps, dries clear, and bonds to almost any material.

If you need the strength of epoxy, try Loctite Epoxy Gel. It bonds firmly to wood, glass, ceramic, fiberglass, and many other materials. The adhesive forms a high-strength bond in just six minutes and is perfect for situations where large gaps need to be covered or drilling may be necessary.

Loctite Super Glue Power Gel Control is ideal for quick fixes and precise application. The special formula is one of the strongest glues you can buy and holds up to impact and extreme conditions.