Deciding which glue to use in a woodworking project depends largely on the type of joinery, the materials involved, and how much time is available for assembly. Each glue comes with unique properties that make it better suited for specific applications, whether it’s edge-gluing panels or handling intricate joinery.
For edge-gluing large panels,
such as tabletops or benchtops, PVA glue is typically the first choice. As long as the timber faces are flat, gap-free, and properly jointed, PVA offers strong adhesion. In moisture-prone environments like kitchens and bathrooms, the water resistance of Titebond III makes it preferable. However, for heat-treated or oily timbers—like Cambia products or certain Australian species—PVA’s bond strength may be compromised unless glue surfaces are first wiped with acetone.
Joinery glue-ups, such as mortise-and-tenon or dovetail joints, sometimes demand more open time. PVA can become "grabby" in tight joinery, making adjustments difficult once the parts are joined. In these cases, polyurethane or epoxy offers longer open time, reducing stress during complex glue-ups. Epoxy also excels where tight fitting parts or multi-directional clamping are involved.
For casework or panel-based furniture, the glue choice may depend on complexity and assembly time. If the dry fit is smooth and straightforward, PVA is often sufficient and easier to clean. For larger, trickier assemblies—or when working alone—epoxy provides a longer open time and can be combined with tape masking for a neater finish.
Certain adhesives also stand out in gap-filling capabilities. Epoxy is the only option that retains strength when bridging small voids. Polyurethane may fill minor gaps but offers limited structural support. PVA, on the other hand, requires perfectly mated surfaces to form a reliable bond.
Each glue has its place, and the best results come from matching the adhesive to the needs of the project. With proper planning and understanding of each glue’s properties, strong, clean, and durable joins are easily within reach.