Glues

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Glues

What's behind our glue Ratings?

Experts at our National Testing and Research Center tested 23 models in glues to see which ones perform best.

We look for:

Overall score
Overall score is based on bond strength at the maximum stated drying time and, where applicable, water resistance, the ability to fill gaps, and the ability to bond flexible materials. Displayed scores are rounded; models are listed in order of precise overall score.
Size
Size represents the most common size sold for that glue.
Wood
Wood represents the measured force needed to separate glued wood.
Plastic
Plastic reflects the measured force needed to pull apart glued plastic.
Metal
Metal represents the measured force required to separate glued metal.
Water resistance: glass
Water resistance indicates the ability to hold a bond through 10 hot-water dishwasher cycles.
Water resistance: wood
Water resistance indicates the ability to hold a bond through 10 hot-water dishwasher cycles.
Gap filling
Gap filling represents the ability to fill gaps when dowels were glued in slightly oversized holes.
Drying time
Drying time is the manufacturer's stated time.

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Recommended glues

Recommended glues are standout choices with high scores. They include CR Best Buys, which offer exceptional value. When narrowing your choices, weigh features, price, and attributes that matter to you.

Recommended glues

Glue buying guide

To find the glue that is right for you, read our expert advice on which features to consider and how to find the best value.

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In addition to finding Ratings for the latest models, you can now shop online using an ad-free interface where you can buy glues in a safe-shopping environment.

Learn more about our Price & Shop program

Most of the multipurpose adhesives, superglues, epoxies, and wood glues that we tested were adequately strong for their intended purpose. But no single adhesive worked for everything--and a few barely worked at all. If you're looking for information about glues, Consumer Reports is your best resource. Consumer Reports’ glue reviews will give you honest buying advice that you can trust. Use our glue buying guide to discover which features are most important to consider. We also provide unbiased Ratings and glue reviews to help you choose the best glue for your needs.

Ratings & recommended glues

Glues (23)

The Ratings rank glue by overall performance.

Glue buying guide

Glue makers have enlisted snarling rhinos, glaring gorillas, and sumo wrestlers to tout their promises of "incredible strength," "truly all-purpose," and "Glues whatever. Bonds forever." But those claims didn't stick in our lab tests.

Most of the multipurpose adhesives, superglues, epoxy, and wood glues that we tested were adequately strong for their intended purpose. But no single adhesive worked for everything--and a few barely worked at all.

Getting started | Types

Home & Garden News

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