The technology behind construction adhesives has come a long way over the last decade. Nowadays, there are an increasing number of jobs where an adhesive can provide a secure, clean and hassle-free finish.
As the technology has developed, so has the number of different products available. From acrylics to PVAs and everything in between, there’s no end of products to choose from, and many have specific tasks and materials to which they’re suited.
Here at Fastbuild, we stock a wide range of silicones, sealants, grips and general adhesives. To help you make the best choice, we’re going to break some of them down in this article.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Adhesive
Construction adhesives are a great choice for jobs that need a clean finish and a stronger, secure hold than more traditional glues can’t provide.
Adhesives work in slightly different ways depending on how the product is designed, but they tend to combine the cohesion created through glues with adhesion, which interacts with the molecules of the conjoined surfaces to ensure the bond stays intact under pressure.
Without getting into too much of the science, here are some of the different features you’re likely to see when choosing adhesives.
Material Compatability
First of all, pretty much all adhesives will say specifically which materials they can bond to. Often, the materials they work with depend on the nature of the chemical reaction the product undergoes.
Make sure the adhesive you choose works with the materials you’re bonding. For example, if you’re seeking an adhesive for flooring, you may need something that can bond with concrete and vinyl.
Strength for the Job
Pretty much all adhesives will market themselves as extremely strong, but this doesn’t mean they all have the same level of strength.
Thankfully, many products will outline the kinds of jobs they are designed to undertake, which can be an indicator of the product’s strength. From this, you can work out whether it’s likely to do the job for your project.
Curing Time
Some products will specifically market themselves as fast curing or fast drying.
This feature doesn’t necessarily mean the adhesive seal will be stronger long-term, and some such products still require a long time before the adhesive reaches full strength. However, fast drying properties can be advantageous for specific jobs, such as placing plasterboard or tiles on a wall.
Specific Resistances
Different adhesives will also come with specific qualities when set which suit them to different jobs indoors or outdoors. For example, many products are waterproof and UV resistant, which can be important for outdoor uses.
Best Adhesives for Specific Uses
Here are some of our favourite adhesives based on specific materials and common uses.
Best Adhesives for Concrete
When working with concrete, you need an adhesive that has incredibly good strength. You’ll also want an adhesive that works well with porous materials as well as wet surfaces if used in exterior locations.
Sticks Like is one of our favourite multi-purpose adhesives. It’s an incredibly strong moisture-curing adhesive that bonds well with porous, non-porous and wet materials, even underwater.
Best Adhesives for Plasterboard
Fitting plasterboard is a common use for adhesive. Here, you’re looking for an adhesive that sticks to multiple surfaces. You’ll also want an easy-to-use adhesive that can be applied in various ways as you work through the plasterboards.
Gripfill is an excellent multi-purpose adhesive that works particularly effectively with plasterboard and other internal projects, such as skirting boards. This adhesive also naturally fills gaps, providing a clean finish for your walls.
Best Adhesives for Plastic
When working with plastics, you want a solid all-rounder adhesive that can work with multiple material types. If sticking things such as skirting boards or door perimeters, you may also need an adhesive with good performance in extreme variations of temperature.
Everbuild’s Stixall is a fantastic adhesive and sealant, providing excellent resistance to temperature extremes and UV rays. It’s also quick curing and easy to paint over, allowing you to finish the job nice and quickly.
Of course, we have a wide range of adhesives available for a wide range of jobs, including adhesives for mirrors and more. Browse our range to find the perfect products for you at great trade prices.
