Before getting started on your wood project its a good idea to check your wood glue to make sure it’s still useable.
In this guide we will look at how to determine if your wood glue has gone bad, as well as tips for storing it so that it lasts longer.
How to Tell if Wood Glue Is Bad
There are a few reasons why wood glue goes bad. The most common are that glue has expired, storage conditions, or the glue bottle wasn’t properly sealed after last use. Not all of these will present themselves at the same time. Look for these signs:
Wood Glue Storage Conditions
Wood glue can go bad when it’s exposed to harsh variations in temperatures. If the glue comes out stringy or thick, or it sticks to itself instead of the wood, it’s highly likely no longer good.
Glue Bottle Tip is Clogged
Wood glue can go bad when the container is not properly closed. Typically what happens is that the glue clogs the tip and it doesn’t close properly causing the glue to start drying out.
Expiration Date
Most manufacturers state that wood glue can last well beyond the expiration date. These dates are typically 1-2 years.
I’ve found that when wood glue is stored in optimal conditions it can last up to 5 years. However, glue does expire so if you’ve had your glue for a few years, you should consider getting a new bottle.
Other Signs That Your Wood is Expired
Other signs include a change in color, texture or has a strong odor. Mold inside the bottle is also a bad sign.
If you experience any of these, time to toss your glue in the trash and buy a fresh bottle.
Tips For Storing Wood Glue
Now that you know how to tell if your wood glue has gone bad, here are some tips for storing it so that it lasts longer.
First, store your glue in a cool, dry place. A closet or cabinet away from any heat source is ideal. You could even store it in your refrigerator.
Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before using it.
Second, make sure the container is properly sealed. As I mentioned earlier, I like to clean the tip after each use with soap and water before storing the bottle.
Does Wood Glue Go Bad if Frozen?
Not necessarily. If the glue isn’t way beyond the expiration date when the freezing occurs, it will more than likely be fine.
Most wood glues can go through multiple freeze/thaw cycles before breaking down and no longer working.
Can You Revive Old Wood Glue?
If the wood glue is still liquid and hasn’t changed color or texture, you can try to revive it by adding a few drops of water.
Just be careful not to add too much. This would decrease bond strength.
Conclusion
The bottom line is that wood glue can go bad. However, if you follow the tips covered in this guide, you can extend the life of your glue.
