Best Glue for Plastic Eyeglass Frames – The Top Super Glue for Glasses

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For anyone that wears reading glasses, or something more permanent, one of the worst things that can happen is you have to deal with a pair of broken glasses. This is a situation I am sure we have all encountered at some time or another, and if you are not able to replace them immediately, you need to fix them quickly. The glue seems to be the best thing you can use in repairing glasses frames quickly, and it is also an item that most of us have at home already. So, in this article, we will be helping you find the best glue for plastic eyeglass frames.

 

 

 

Why Use Glue for Mending Plastic Eyeglass Frames?

Glue is the perfect material to use for repairing glasses frames, and you can rely on it to do the job quickly and without any hassles. Glue is also a versatile product that can be used on various types of materials like metal, plastic, and much more. There seems to be no limit on how or where you can use it.

We all have some DIY repair projects around the house that we do almost daily, and glue plays a vital part in these projects, such as ceramics, wooden items, car parts, toys, crafting, jewelry, eyeglasses, and the list can go on and on. This proves that glue has endless possibilities, and the beauty of this is that the repairs done with glue are budget-friendly.

The type of glue we use to repair eyeglass frames is not the same glue that your kids use for their craft projects, as it needs to bond the broken eyeglass pieces properly together. The glue for eyeglasses needs to have extremely strong bonding capabilities, but must not damage or melt the plastic eyeglass pieces. In other words, the weaker glues like the kids use will not work; neither will the very strong industrial glues and, of course, it must be compatible with most types of plastic.

The glue needs to be the type that can be sanded or can dry clear to minimize the visual effect on the repaired area. Our glasses always rest right in the center of your face and have a defining effect on your appearance, so no one wants to have an unsightly glue blob that is visible for all to see.

So, your repairs to your glasses need to be discrete and seamless and this will determine what type of glue you need to use.

 

 

Types of Best Glue for Plastic Eyeglass Frames?

There are several different types of glues available that you can use to repair your plastic eyeglasses. Most of them have versatile features that can provide what you need. Whenever using glue, it is a good idea to do the repairs in a space that is well-ventilated as some glue can have an odor. Since it is rather delicate work, a steady hand is necessary to avoid getting the glue on areas you do not want it to go.

 

Epoxy Resin

This type of glue is the strongest and most durable of all the adhesives for repairing your plastic eyeglass frames. It is supplied in a two-part package (resin and hardener), one tube contains the adhesive and the other tube is the hardener. Both of these two components need to be mixed before you can start applying them to your glasses to repair the break.

Although the epoxy resin is strong and durable, it may be difficult to work with if you are going to do a precision repair job. The glue is also messy to work with and needs to be sanded down before it sets properly, to get rid of the uneven, rough places. You also need to take care not to apply too much of the adhesive, otherwise, it might spread to your eyeglass lenses and you will not be able to remove it without causing damage.

 

UV-Activated Super Glue

This product is similar to the regular super glue, only the UV-activated super glue will only start to set once it has been exposed to ultraviolet light. This is ideal, as it allows you enough time to align the pieces perfectly, and then when you are satisfied you can apply the light and cure the glue. This adhesive is often supplied with a small UV light or you need to buy one separately to help with curing the glue.

Remember to read the instructions on the package carefully and follow them precisely for a good strong bond. If the UV light is unable to cure the glue properly, you can always rely on the sun’s heat to complete the job for you.

 

Super Glue

This is the glue that most people consider when wanting to repair glasses. Mainly because it is popular, easy to use, dries fast, does not need any extra equipment, and can be used on various surfaces. Super glue also makes a strong bond and can be used to repair almost any object in your home.

However, it dries fast and does not give you much time to line up the pieces you want to glue perfectly. Often you need just a little more time to make a perfect alignment. Remember, once you have glued the parts together and then realize you made a mistake, it is impossible to undo the bond and you will only make a bigger mess.

 

Fluorescent Light Adhesive

This is also a very easy-to-use glue product and cures the glue when placed under any white fluorescent light, which most households have. This type of adhesive is also a very safe product to use, and many DIY users love it, as it not only repairs your plastic eyeglasses but is also able to mend glass.

 

Advantages and Disadvantages for Using Glue to Mend Plastic Eyeglass Frames

Sometimes, it is a good idea to simply fix something that has broken by yourself. This is the same when it comes to eyeglasses. Make sure the pieces of the frame are clean first then just apply the glue and the job is done. However, there is also a disadvantage when doing this. Using heat is the correct method to use for a more lasting repair job. So, depending on the damage, it might be a better idea to have it professionally repaired or replaced altogether.

 

What to Consider When Buying Your Glue for Plastic Eyeglass Frames

With the multitude of glues and super glues on the market, it is difficult to know which one is right for repairing your glasses, as most of them work just as well as any other. This is why you need to consider certain factors before you go out and purchase your glue. We will now help you to make the right choice by looking at these factors.

 

Adhesive Bond Strength

This means the weight that it can carry before it breaks, some glue types claim they can take thousands of pounds weight. However, taking everything into account, the dried glue should be a lot stronger than the material that it is holding together. Your bonded material should be able to carry at least one hundred pounds of weight.

You should also consider buying a glue that has a thick viscosity as it will reinforce your eyeglass frames but also give it a bit of stretch to be able to withstand pressure.

 

Durability

This means the time it will take for the bond to deteriorate and weaken. Some adhesives start to lose their strength within a few years, but the bond formed should be able to last much longer. This means you only need to fix your glasses once and they last for a very long time.

 

Curing Time

Most of the super glues on the market will dry within seconds, which means you can start wearing your glasses again almost immediately. However, be careful that the glue does not dry too fast and leaves you with very little time to prepare and adjust the pieces in time. If you are a person that has shaky hands, it is recommended that you rather buy UV-activated glue that will allow you time to position the pieces before it sets.

 

Ease of Use

Most of the glues are easy to use, you just remove the cap squeeze the bottle, and join the pieces together. Others require that you first mix the two compounds, and then you can apply them. For the straightforward eyeglass repairs, super glue should do the trick, but if you need to fill in a missing piece or mold a section then an epoxy resin is the answer.

 

Adaptability and Compatibility

When you go out to buy glue for your eyeglasses repairs, then you should also ensure that it is formulated to treat plastics. Materials used in the making of eyeglass frames include propionate polycarbonate, nylon-based plastic, polyamide, and many other types of plastic. So, you need to choose a glue that works on hard plastics and the container should make it clear that it can be used for eyeglass material.

You should also consider buying multi-purpose glue that can be used to bond other materials as well, such as rubber, ceramics, wood, metal, and much more. Your eyeglasses are surely not the only item that needs to be repaired around the house, so why not buy a glue that you can use on plastic but also use on wood, ceramics, paper, metal, and much more.

 

Price

Try not to settle for the cheapest glue you can find or the most expensive but buy a product that is a lot better and stronger than the ordinary school glue. You should be able to find a glue that can do the job perfectly and be somewhere in the middle price range. In this regard, try not to be governed by brand names as some of them can be expensive, however, they are not much better than another brand that is a lot cheaper.

 

Customer Reviews

It is not a good idea just to go into a store and buy the first tube of glue you can find. You need to do some research first and see what other customers or users have to comment on that particular brand. If you find a product that has hundreds of positive reviews, then you know you can buy that product and use it confidently if used correctly.

 

Protection and Safety

Once the glue has dried, it should be able to withstand certain hazards so you can wear your glasses outdoors. Therefore, you should choose a glue that is weatherproof to withstand heat, water, and cold. The glue should also be resistant to vibration and impacts, and able to withstand significant pressure.

Some of the glue and the plastic eyeglass pieces give off a toxic smell when applying, so you need to wear a mask and gloves when handling them. Others have warnings on the containers like flammable, so be aware of these warnings. However, many of the environmentally friendly glues would be a good choice.

 

Design and Use

Most of these types of glue come in small tubes or bottles that make them comfortable to handle. They also contain a small amount of glue, as you will only need a drop or two. Many of the containers are supplied with a control nozzle that makes it even easier to control and apply. It does not take long for the glue in these small containers to harden, so you should ensure it has a resealable cap to prevent this from happening.

 

 

What Is the Best Glue for Plastic Eyeglass Frames?

There are so many different types of glue on the market, that it makes it very difficult to find reliable good and strong glue for repairing your plastic eyeglass frames. You need to find the best glue so you can do the repair yourself and make a perfect and lasting repair job, this will also save you a lot of money. Here are a few recommendations that should help you with repairing your plastic eyeglass frames.

 

Best Epoxy Resin for Plastic Eyeglass Frames: J-B WELD Plastic Bonder Adhesive

The J-B Plastic Bonder Adhesive is a two-part, quick-setting, urethane adhesive and may be slightly tricky to use because it needs to be mixed thoroughly before you apply it. You need to mix the adhesive with the hardener in equal parts, which is easy to do by pushing the tube plunger and making sure both components are thoroughly mixed giving you a uniform color.

The adhesive is durable and long-lasting, a good choice when it comes to glue for eyeglasses. Once it has been applied and properly cured, it cannot be broken. It will set within 15 minutes and within 30 minutes you will be able to sand it. Once cured, it forms a permanent hard bond with a tensile strength of 3770 PSI (Pounds per Inch) with a tan color.

The adhesive has an exclusive dispensing system, with the tube equipped with a syringe that allows the right amount of glue to be dispensed each time. It can also be re-sealed, preventing the glue from hardening, and can then be used as many times as possible.

This product can also be applied to metal, concrete, fiberglass, tiles, aluminum, and carbon fiber composites. The glue can also be used as filler, especially for car body repairs, and because it can be molded into various shapes, you can also use it to repair the ear of a cup that has broken off. So, you can create a brand new part that will even be stronger than the original one.

Best Super Glue for Plastic Eyeglass Frames: GORILLA Super Glue Gel

This particular Gorilla glue is ideal for repairing your eyeglass frames. The design, as well as its formulation, is of high quality. The glue has a fairly thick viscosity which makes it easy to apply, even for beginners, and leaves no overrun on your glasses. This is due to the controlled nozzle feature in its design that allows you to apply the glue precisely at the right spot. The way the bottle is designed makes it comfortable to hold and you do not have to squeeze the bottle or brace the broken parts together.

The glue also dries very quickly within 10 to 45 seconds, it is completely cured and set. Once set, its reinforced strength is amazing and your repaired glasses have increased impact resistance, so you can safely wear them when playing sports.

This glue is also very versatile and is not only very effective on plastic eyeglass frames, but can also be used on other materials like rubber, wood, paper, metal, leather, ceramics, and much more providing you with a very strong bond.

Best UV Light Glue for Plastic Eyeglass Frames: CREATIVEBOND Super Strong Glue

The Creative Bond UV Light Glue is one of the best adhesives to use for repairing your plastic eyeglass frames and is recommended where the conventional glues have failed. This product is much stronger than the normal type of glue and you can also use it to build up the material. The adhesive is easy to use and is mess-free, as the glue is enclosed in the pen applicator and is excellent when you need to do a quick fix.

This glue will form a permanent bond within 5 to 10 seconds after you have applied the UV light, which allows you time to reposition the pieces if necessary, and does not need clips or clamps. The formulation is environmentally safe, heat resistant, non-toxic, odorless, and waterproof. It can also be used on several different types of materials like stainless steel, wood, plastic, ceramics, jewelry, craft projects, and much more. The kit includes a glue pen, alcohol prep pad, and UV light with a battery that has a 10-hour lifespan. You need to follow the instructions carefully for the best results.

 

Fixing Your Broken Eyeglass Frame

We have seen from the information above, the best method to fix your broken glasses frame is by using glue. We have already discussed what type of glue to use and what to look out for when going to purchase your glue. Now we will be discussing how to fix the frame. We first need to establish two things:

• What is the frame made from, plastic or metal?
• Is the frame bent or broken?

 

Repairing Plastic Eyeglass Frames

Plastic frames seem to break much easier than other types of frames, and by using ordinary household items you can do the repair yourself and have your glasses ready to wear again within the hour. There are two basic problems when it comes to repairing glasses frames, and they are bent frames or broken frames.

 

How to Fix Glasses Arm with Glue

Glue is the preferred medium to use when repairing your plastic eyeglass frames, and super glue for glasses does the job perfectly. Simply follow the steps listed below and find out how to fix your glasses arm with glue, and you will be able to wear your glasses again within the hour.

Prepare all the tools you will need like a clean cloth, super glue, alcohol, and some warm water. It may be necessary to use very fine sandpaper to prepare the surface. Use the alcohol and clean cloth to wipe the section clean, and leave it to dry properly.

Dab some super glue onto the broken area. Hold the frame securely for about one minute, this helps set the glue. Make sure it is in the correct position. If you are not able to hold the frame steady, you may need to use some form of support to keep the frame stable. Allow the frame to rest for about five minutes and then immerse it into the warm water. Now you can reshape the arm or bridge until it adjusts to fit your face comfortably.

 

How to Fix Broken Plastic Glasses Bridge

When it comes to repairing the broken bridge of your glasses, you need to apply a more detailed repair as the bridge is the strongest part of your glasses. Follow the steps listed below on how to fix a broken plastic glasses bridge and you should have a pair of glasses that will last you longer.

Prepare the tools you will need like clean cloth, clear super glue, alcohol, flat stick, cotton, 1 mm drill bit, tape, hobby knife, and two rubber bands. The color cotton must be a close match to the plastic frame.

Use fine sandpaper to prepare the surface if necessary. Use the alcohol and clean cloth to wipe the section clean, and leave it to dry properly. Cut your flat stick to the right length so it can fit between the two arms on the inside of the glasses. Wrap the stick with some wax paper or soft cloth to protect the lenses during gluing. Get the glasses lined up with the stick and clamp it into place using the two rubber bands, one over each lens.

Carefully apply the super glue for glasses to the break and allow it to cure for around one hour. You can stop at this point but following the next steps provide a better repair job. Use the drill bit to drill two small holes on either side of the break. Take some cotton thread and tie one end to the arm and then take the other end and thread through the holes and wind around the fixed section on the other side. This will give strength to the repaired section during gluing.

Fill the holes you drilled with the superglue and let it soak into the cotton. Allow the glue to set for around 15 to 20 minutes. Now remove the cotton using the knife. A small piece of thread will remain in the hole with the glue. Take another length of thread and tape one end on top of the frame over the lens.

Begin to wrap the thread around the entire bridge section, then tape the thread down on the frame over the other lens, and do not trim it off. This keeps the thread taut and unable to unravel. 

Apply glue to the wrapped thread by the bridge section, and leave it for a few minutes to cure. Now un-tape the ends of the thread and reverse wrap it around the entire bridge section. Soak the wrapped thread again in super glue and leave it for a few minutes to cure and trim the thread. Allow it to cure for a few minutes and set the glasses aside for around 24 hours and you are ready to go!

 

How to Fix a Bent Plastic Glasses Arm

When you have a bent arm, you need to take care when trying to straighten it, as plastic can break very easily when forced. Just follow the steps listed below and you should have a perfect set of glasses again.

To be able to bend the frame properly without breaking it you need to apply some heat. You can do this by filling your kettle and let it come to a boil. Now hold the bent section of your glasses over the steam to heat the plastic. Bend the frame by hand into the right position again.

Never use a naked flame on the frame because it will result in permanent damage. Now dry the frame and allow it to cool down and you are all set.

 

Repairing Metal Eyeglass Frames

Metal is a reliable and beautiful material for eyeglass frames, but it is also thin and can be fragile, so you need to take extra care when handling your metal frame glasses. There is no need to become distressed if your metal frames get damaged, as you can fix them yourself with glue for metal glasses frames.

Just like the plastic frames, there appear to be two basic problems with your glasses that need to be repaired and they are bent frames or broken frames.

When a pair of glasses with a metal frame is broken, using the glue for metal glasses frames is slightly more complicated than with plastic-framed eyeglasses. You may be able to use glue to fix the frame, but due to the thin metal frame, it may not last all that long. Metal frames need to be welded using special equipment and precision, and if not welded correctly, they may not fit comfortably on your face. So, it is defiantly a job for the experts and professionals to handle.

A metal eyeglass frame can easily be bent, as it is fairly thin, but this could be an advantage as it is also easier to straighten. Just follow the following steps, and with a little care, you can have your glasses back to normal again.

Put your glasses on a flat surface and see which of the sides does not touch the surface, that is the side that needs to be straightened. Take a small, long-nosed plier and apply some pressure to the end that you want to straighten. Make sure you do not apply too much pressure and cause even more damage. If you still find a problem, heat the frame using a hairdryer, and follow the same procedure, remember never to use an open flame.

 

Although breaking your glasses can be an inconvenience, you can easily repair plastic eyeglass frames with glue. Depending on the glue you choose to use, you can have your glasses up and running again in only a few hours. You can follow our easy tutorials to fix your own eyeglass frames in no time at all. 

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

What Is the Best Glue for Plastic Eyeglass Frames?

Superglue for glasses seems to be the best glue to use for fixing your glasses, as it is fairly cheap, does the job in seconds, provides a strong bond, and is something most households have on hand. There are also many more uses for super glue around your home You can also use it for craft or school projects for the kids.

 

How Long Will a Glued Frame Last?

This all depends on what type of glue you used, how strong the bond is, and if you followed the correct procedure. But most repairs done in this way are not permanent and may only last until your next eye appointment when you should get a new frame.

 

Is Gorilla Glue a Good Product to Use on Repairs to Plastic Glass Frames?

Gorilla glue is one of the strongest bonds for plastics on the market and is specially designed to bond with glass, which makes it the perfect glue for repairing glasses frames.

 

Can Heat Damage my Eyeglasses?

If your glass lenses have been coated with anti-reflective or other types of coating, heat can damage the coating on the lenses. So, be careful when applying heat to your glasses.