Gorilla glue is a popular adhesive choice for various projects, but its long drying time can be frustrating. Fortunately, there are different ways to quicken the process of drying gorilla glue, and this article aims to provide you with the necessary information.
Understanding Gorilla Glue
Gorilla glue is a polyurethane-based adhesive that forms a strong and waterproof bond. It comes in two parts – resin and hardener, and they need to be mixed before use. Gorilla glue expands as it dries, and any excess that oozes out should be wiped off before it dries. It takes 24 hours to fully cure, and its strength increases over time. However, it can take several hours to dry, which makes it less ideal for quick projects.
How to Quicken the Drying Time
Apply Less Glue
If you want your gorilla glue to dry faster, you need to apply a thin layer of glue. The thicker the layer of glue, the longer it takes to dry. Therefore, using the right amount of glue can significantly reduce the drying time.
Reduce Humidity
The humidity in the air affects the drying process of gorilla glue. High humidity can increase the drying time significantly, while low humidity can accelerate it. You can use a dehumidifier or air conditioner to reduce humidity in the room where you are working. If it’s a small project, you can place it in a sealed container with some silica packets to absorb the moisture.
Use Warmth or Heat
Gorilla glue dries faster in warm or hot temperatures. You can use a hairdryer or a heat lamp to provide heat to the glue. However, be careful not to overheat the glue as it can cause bubbles, cracking, or weakening of the bond.
Use Accelerators
Accelerators are additives that can be added to gorilla glue to speed up the drying process.You can find accelerators at hardware stores, and they come in different forms like spray, gel or powder. However, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using accelerators as using too much can weaken the bond or cause discoloration.
Tips for Using Gorilla Glue
Prepare the Surfaces
Before applying gorilla glue, ensure that the surfaces are clean, dry and free from oil, wax, or dust. You can clean the surfaces with alcohol or acetone, and roughen it with sandpaper to increase the adhesive’s grip.
Use Clamps or Weights
Clamps or weights can be used to hold the surfaces together while the glue dries. This ensures that there’s even pressure across the surfaces and creates a strong bond. Be careful not to overtighten the clamps or use heavy objects that can damage the surfaces.
Avoid Contact with Skin
Gorilla glue bonds quickly and can stick to skin, causing irritation or injury. Wear gloves, long-sleeved shirts and avoid touching the glue. If it gets on your skin, use soap and warm water to wash it off before it dries.
Store the Glue Correctly
Proper storage of gorilla glue can prolong its shelf life and effectiveness. Store it in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight, and ensure that the cap is tightly closed after use.
In Conclusion
Drying gorilla glue faster is achievable with the right techniques and tools. Whether you want to complete a project quickly or reduce downtime, you can use the tips above to hasten the drying process. Remember to use caution when handling the glue and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
FAQs
- Can I mix gorilla glue with water to speed up the drying process?
- How long does it take for gorilla glue to dry in extreme heat?
- How can I remove dried gorilla glue?
- What is the difference between white gorilla glue and clear gorilla glue?
No. Water can dilute the glue and weaken its bond. It can also cause bubbling or foaming.
Gorilla glue dries faster in heat or warmth, but extreme heat can cause the glue to dry too fast, leading to bubbles or cracking. It’s best to avoid extreme heat and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Gorilla glue cannot be removed by rubbing, scraping or sanding. You can use acetone, alcohol, or sandpaper on small surfaces. For larger surfaces, use a chisel to break off the glue or apply heat using a heat gun.
The difference is in the color and drying time. White gorilla glue dries white and takes 10-20 minutes to clamp, and 24 hours to cure. Clear gorilla glue dries clear and takes 2 hours to clamp and 24 hours to cure.
References
- Birdz. (2020). Gorilla Glue Guide: Tips and Hacks for Using the Popular Adhesive. Retrieved from https://birdzofafeather.ca/diy/gorilla-glue-guide-tips/#:~:text=A%20Better%20Way%20to%20Apply%20Gorilla%20Glue.%20The,(but%20not%20over-the-top)%20amount%20on%20the%20second.
- Gorilla Glue. (n.d.). How to Apply Gorilla Glue. Retrieved from https://www.gorillatough.com/tips-and-hacks/how-to-apply-gorilla-glue#tab-3.
- Make It From Metal. (2020). How to Use and Remove Gorilla Glue. Retrieved from https://makeitfrommetal.com/gorilla-glue/.