The reason that not all types of adhesives will work for all projects is because some glue will dry and be hard and brittle, while other types of adhesives will bond but remain flexible, even when dry. See, if you were to fix a broken cabinet joint with, you would want to use an adhesive that stiffens when it dries; not one that remains flexible. However, if you are gluing two different materials then a more flexible adhesive would make sense because they will expand and contract differently. A stiff drying glue would too easily break away from the material.





You will want an adhesive that is resistant to chemicals if the material you are gluing will be subject to any chemicals. Let's use your kitchen counter as an example. Most likely you will be using chemical household cleaners to disinfect the counter, so any adhesive that breaks down when exposed to chemicals is not something you want.





It's also important to consider any envrionment variables like weather and climate. An example would be an area of high humidity or moisture. You will want to choose an adhesive that is waterproof for this environment.





There are many different types of adhesives available, but not all of them can be used for all projects.

• Hot glue is a common type of glue that must be used with a hot glue gun. Hot glue dries quickly and is an adhesive of moderate strength. Hot glue is most often used by hobbyists and for crafts.


• Epoxy glue is another type of adhesive and it must be mixed before it can be used. Overall, this strong bonding glue is best used on non-porous material, except for plastic. Epoxy glue will dissolve plastic.


• When clamping is not an option, contact cement is an often used adhesive. Once applied, the bond is permanent and the glue remains strong.


• Another moderate strength adhesive is white glue. Because this glue is not water repellant it is best used on paper and cloth.


• Can't forget about Animal Glue! In liquid form, Animal glue can be applied cold or hot. Constructing furniture is a common use for Animal glue because it has strong bonding abilities.

Due to the number of adhesives available to you, finding the right glue for your project is essential and it can make the difference in how well an object will hold up. Always remember that you still need to read the directions even on a substance as simple as glue because many of the glues are toxic and even flammable.