When looking for wood glue for your next project, an important question to ask is “How strong is wood glue?”
Let’s take a look at the strength of selected wood glues and compare the use of these adhesives to other popular methods of fixing wooden items.
How Strong is Wood Glue?
Most quality wood glues fall within the PSI range of 3600 up to 4000 pounds per square inch of pressure before the bond starts to fail. The PSI, or pounds per square inch, is a measure of the strength of the bond. The higher the PSI, the stronger the bond.
Keep in mind that factors such as moisture, humidity, temperature, the type of wood being used and the smoothness of the surface can affect the strength of the respective wood glue.
PSI For Popular Wood Glue Brands
- Titebond: ranges from 3600-4000 PSI depending on which one you use
- Gorilla Wood Glue: 3900-4000 PSI
- Elmer’s Carpenter’s Wood Glue Max: 3600 PSI
- J-B Weld Woodweld: 3770 PSI
Is Wood Glue Stronger Than Screws?
This is not a straightforward question to answer as it depends on many factors. In general, however, screws are going to be stronger than wood glue.
For example, if the screws are not inserted correctly or if the holes are too big, then the wood glue will be stronger. When using glue, there is a continuous bond running the length of the joint.
It just depends on the project you are working on and what your specific needs are.
Is Wood Glue Alone Strong Enough?
This depends on what you are going to use the joined pieces of wood for. For instance, if you are making a bread box then wood glue alone should be sufficient.
On the other hand, if you are making a box to hold tools or other heavy items, then using both wood glue and screws or nails will provide a stronger bond.
Is Wood Glue Stronger than Nails?
For smaller projects where the glued joints won’t be stressed, glue is a better choice.
When using glue, there is a continuous bond running the length of the joint. Whereas when you use nails, you create a bond only where the nails are placed.
Is Wood Glue Stronger than Super Glue?
On wood projects, wood glues are stronger than super glue.
However, super glue is more convenient when working with small pieces of wood where clamping isn’t necessary and you need quick-drying glue.
Conclusion
Wood glue strength typically ranges from 3600 to 4000 PSI, with factors like moisture, humidity, temperature, wood type, and surface smoothness affecting the bond strength. Popular brands like Titebond, Gorilla Wood Glue, Elmer’s Carpenter’s Wood Glue Max, and J-B Weld Woodweld vary within this range. While screws are generally stronger than wood glue, the bond depends on proper insertion and hole size. Wood glue alone may suffice for light-duty projects, but for heavier tasks, combining glue with screws or nails is recommended.
