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Adhesives for Gluing Glass to Glass
This is part two of a two
part series on using adhesives for gluing glass to glass.
Click here to go to part one, which covers the different types of
adhesives that can be used.
When glass adhesives fail, it's common to blame the glue.
But in many cases the problem stems from improper use of the glue or
from poor preparation of the surfaces to be glued. Here's a
handful of tips to help you get the best performance from the
adhesives you use.
1. First, it's extremely important the glass be clean.
You'll get good results if you use isopropyl alcohol (rubbing
alcohol) to thoroughly cleanse the surface.
Avoid petroleum based cleaners, glass cleaners like Windex, and
solvents like acetone -- some of these products will leave a film
that can interfere with the adhesive's ability to form a strong
bond.
2. Don't over apply the adhesive.
Not only is that wasteful, too much glue can make for a weaker,
rather than a stronger, bond.
3. Always follow the directions for
the specific adhesive you're using. (This sounds obvious, but
it's often violated.) Some glues, such as Hxtal and many other
epoxies, required precise measurement and application procedures.
4. After the adhesive has been
applied, avoid touching or disturbing the work until the adhesive
has completely cured. Rushing the job will cost more problems
than it solves.
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Copyright 2005 Brad Walker.
All rights reserved.
This tip adapted from posts on
the Warm Glass bulletin board and from Henry Halem's excellent book,
Glass Notes.
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