Many of us have used adhesives at least once, whether to fix something we broke or to build something that requires the assembly of multiple components. And if you’re like most people, you probably don’t give much thought when using adhesives—you simply apply them to a surface, combine things, and consider the job done.
However, you may be using adhesives ineffectively. According to a survey by home service website Angi, 80% of homeowners make a mistake while conducting their DIY projects, which can lead to costly repairs and unexpected accidents. So, using adhesives correctly not only ensures that the things you fix stay fixed but also saves you from unwanted expenses and disasters.
In this article, we will tackle common mistakes when using adhesives and how you can avoid them.
1. Buying low-priced glue for everything
You might think that buying cheap glue will save you money, but it does the opposite. Many low-priced adhesives often don’t have the quality that more expensive ones have. For example, some people will use household glue simply because it’s cheaper, even when other types of adhesives can offer a more reliable and lasting hold.
Choosing to buy cheaper products can save you money in the short term, but if you do not get the results you want, it will cost you more to buy another. Worse, it could even lead to accidents when the cheap adhesion you used on furniture or home repairs easily wears off.
It is best to consult a sales representative to make sure you get the best quality glue while sticking to your budget. You can ask the representative if testing is allowed to see its fit for your project.
Simplex has a variety of industrial adhesives and sealants that are suitable for various materials. Check out our shop to browse for the right type of adhesive you need.
2. Using a preformed gasket with an anaerobic adhesive
The purpose of anaerobic liquid gasket adhesives is to replace traditional preformed gaskets. Combining adhesives with the mechanical methods they’re supposed to replace often leads to disaster. The result can lead to leaks and a loose seal.
The anaerobic adhesive evenly distributes stress throughout the seal. This leads to improved control, lessening the need to re-tighten the seal. If you are unsure of what you need, you can ask a reliable supplier to help you evaluate what kind of products you need.
3. Not cleaning or prepping the surface
Many people simply apply the adhesive and walk away. The next thing they know, the seal is falling off because the surfaces were not prepped. One of the simplest ways to avoid this is to clean the surfaces before applying the adhesive to ensure optimal adhesion.
Plastic, rubber, metal, and wood all need a clean surface for the adhesive to work effectively. An example would be wiping down dust on a glass table. If dust and dirt are all over the table, the adhesive will not work correctly. The same applies to other materials in the list.
4. Not following instructions on the product manual
Almost all products, including adhesives and sealants, have an instruction manual or label but many people disregard them, thinking that they take too long to read, or that they’ll just figure out how to use the products through trial and error. Sometimes it works, but when it doesn’t, the consequences could be serious.
An example would be using superglue on the wrong surface. This can cause problems, as the glue is difficult to remove.
So, make sure to read the instructions before using adhesives. This will save you time and effort and help you avoid accidents that could turn into disasters.
5. Using too much adhesive
Another common mistake many people make is using too much adhesive. The right amount is typically indicated on the product’s instructions, but many ignore the information. These products may require only a small amount to be effective.
Serious consequences could arise when you use too much superglue. Since superglue is a strong adhesive that can easily bind things together, using too much can make it almost impossible to adjust if you need to apply changes.
6. Using adhesives not appropriate for your environment
Aside from the products themselves, it would help if you considered your environment. Does your area experience hot weather? Does it rain a lot?
These are questions you need to ask yourself to determine the type of product you need. You may find the appropriate kind of adhesive, but it may not be effective in cold weather. If you are unsure about what product you need, you can always do some research first on what works best with your situation.
Be smart with adhesives
Do not worry if you have committed numerous adhesive mistakes as long as you learn from your mistakes. The next time around, be sure to research before purchasing a product.
Things like reading the label and checking the instructions are simple things you can do to avoid any inconvenience. Additionally, cleaning your materials before applying anything can help with its effectiveness.
Simplex is a premier distributor that offers a variety of adhesives and sealants. Other products include gaskets and premium industrial and engineering parts. Check out our shop to browse our high-quality adhesives for delivery.
