Gorilla Glue vs Super Glue – Which is Best for Your Project?

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Trying to decide on the right adhesive to use for a project can be tricky. There are endless options for various glue types. This should be chosen based on your requirements and the surface you will be using. A standing debate amongst crafters at the moment is Gorilla Glue vs Super Glue – which is best? Both have amazing benefits, and both are pretty durable. In this article, we will walk you through the ins and outs of each glue medium and what projects they would be best suited for to better understand Gorilla Glue vs Super Glue.

 

 

What is Gorilla Glue and How to Use it?

Many people ask “is gorilla glue stronger than super glue?” This is not a simple yes or no answer. Gorilla glue is different than superglue in the way that it is made and the binding agents it contains. This glue is part of the polyurethane glue family. Based on the surfaces that require gluing, gorilla glue may or may not be a good option depending on which one you use, as there are a few types within their range.

Gorilla glue is wonderful when trying to adhere to surfaces that are porous and smooth. These would include sanded woods, certain plastics, glass surfaces, stone or unglazed ceramics, and certain metals. Within their range there are a few glue options to choose from, so you can find the one best suited to your needs.  For example, you may be wanting to glue something that is on the exterior of the home. For this, an outdoor suited gorilla glue would work best for added durability. Their original formula would be a great option as it is completely waterproof once dry, and will not be damaged by heat and outdoor weather conditions.

super glue vs gorilla glue

The only downside to using these glues is that they take a while longer to dry than Super Glue. Depending on the Gorilla Glue you have picked their drying times will vary. These polyurethane glue options also tend to have a very strong odor and it may be beneficial to wear a mask while using them.

What makes Gorilla Glue different from other adhesives on the market, is that some of their glues are activated by moisture or water on surfaces. This reacts with the polyurethane to create a tougher bond to your surface for an unbreakable and long-lasting adhesion. Here is a list of the different types of Gorilla Glue options one can use and how to use them correctly:

 

Gorilla Glue Original

  • Tough enough to bond most surfaces and materials
  • Suitable for interior and exterior use
  • Water and heat resistant
  • Activated by moisture
  • The dried color is tan
  • Moisture causes the glue to expand and be absorbed in your surface for added durability
  • This glue can be altered with sanding, staining, and painting
  • Comes in different sizes

To Use:

  • Surfaces must be wiped clean.
  • Add a small amount of water onto the area with a spray bottle, or use a damp towel to slightly dampen the area. do not apply too much water. The surface should not be ‘wet’.
  • Apply your glue to the area, you can use a paintbrush to ensure an even application.
  • Bond and clamp down on the surface so that it holds in the correct position for at least an hour.
  • Once done you can leave the area for 24 hours to cure completely.

 

Gorilla Glue for Wood

  • Used specifically for woodwork or projects involving wooden surfaces
  • Water-based adhesive made from PVA
  • Suited to interior and exterior projects
  • Dries a natural color tan color
  • Water-resistant glue that can be painted or sanded
  • Sealants, stains, and dyes can be applied to the glue directly or to the wood afterward
  • This glue can also be used as a wood filler by mixing it with fine particles of wood to make a paste
  • Comes in different sizes

To Use:

  • Do not attempt to use this product for surfaces other than wood.
  • Always prep, sand, and clean your wood before applying an adhesive. Make sure your wood is always dry before starting to ensure a better hold.
  • If using to stick hardwood pieces then it is best to apply the glue to both sides of your materials for better grip and long-term adhesion.
  • Always try your best to align the grains of wood to ensure a more professional project outcome.
  • Leave for half an hour to clamp and adhere correctly to the surface.
  • Leave for another day to cure completely.

 

Clear Gorilla Glue

  • Clear drying and non-foaming formula
  • Suitable for interior and exterior applications
  • Best suited for use on non-porous materials
  • Water-resistant and dries clear
  • Can be painted, stained, or sanded
  • Comes in different sizes
  • This glue can be painted on with oil or latex-based paints

To Use:

  • This works the same as the original Gorilla Glue although it is only suitable for non-porous surfaces like glass, plastic, or metal.
  • Wipe down your surface and slightly dampen the area you wish to apply the glue to.
  • Properly alight the objects and allow around two hours to dry after you have clamped them.
  • You will then need to wait 24 hours for your project to fully cure before it can be used.

 

Gorilla Glue Epoxy

  • Comes in a pack of two syringes
  • Used for tougher repairs such as on the a car or within the home
  • Highly durable
  • Suitable for indoor and outdoor projects
  • Works on tough materials like glass, aluminum, metals, and steels
  • Can also be used to fill and seal gaps, holes and cracks
  • Dries to a clear finish
  • Solvent and water-resistant formula
  • This glue can be stained, sanded, or painted
  • Set time is five minutes, allowing for repositioning
  • Comes in different sizes

To use:

  • This comes with both a resin and a hardener that will need to be mixed and applied together in order to work properly.
  • Prep and smooth down your surface before applying any product.
  • Dispense even quantities of each product into a tray or container for mixing.
  • Mix these well for half a minute or until the mixture looks consistent. You may notice the epoxy begins to get warmer during this process, that is normal as it actives and combines with your hardening product.
  • Do not wait longer than five minutes before applying the solution to your surfaces.
  • Once done, secure your project and leave it for half an hour to set.
  • Your project will be fully cured and usable after 24 hours.

gorilla glue

 

Gorilla Super Glue Gel

  • Thicker than the other formulas within this range
  • Nozzle for more controlled applications
  • Glue will not run and dries clear in under a minute
  • Superior formula allows the glue to absorb shock and impact
  • Suited applications on most surfaces and materials, apart from smooth plastics
  • Anti-clog cap prevents your nozzle from becoming unusable or dried up with glue
  • This glue cannot be painted or stained but it can be sanded if required
  • Comes in different sizes

To use:

  • Clean and dry your surface before applying this super glue.
  • Only a small amount is needed for a strong adhesion, one blob for every square inch of surface area to be glued is recommended.
  • Apply pressure to your area for up to a minute and your materials should be secure. Wait a full day for your project to be properly cured.

 

 

Gorilla Glue Vs Super Glue

While Gorilla Glues tend to do best on porous surfaces, Super Glue achieves better results on surfaces that are vertical and not as smooth, thus giving the adhesive something to bind to. This type of glue comes from the cyanoacrylate family. If you are planning on working with plastics or glass, then these may not be the right options for the job. Super Glues work well when needing to stick to smaller areas or requiring extra precision.

Super Glue dries much quicker and with a clear finish. Therefore, most super glue options require you to work quickly so your glue is still wet when sticking your materials together. A risk with any super glue is that the formula does not allow for contraction and expansion based on weather or humidity factors. Which makes it likely that your glue will not hold as long under certain conditions as using a more durable and versatile gorilla glue option would.

Super Glues come in different sizes and forms such as liquid or gel. Glues that are gel-based are best used when needing a more controlled application as they come with a nozzle. These are also more flexible once they have dried and are helpful when gluing together smaller pieces or areas. Liquid superglues work well for sealing and fixing cracks, these will also dry much faster than the gel version as they are of a thinner consistency and applied with a small brush.

Whether you choose Gorilla Glue vs Super Glue will be based on your surface area, price, and durability requirements. Is Gorilla Glue stronger than Super Glue? Well that is entirely dependent on your surface. Below are the different super glue types and how to use them.

super glue

 

Liquid Super Glues

  • Not suitable for outdoor use
  • Comes with a small brush applicator
  • Used for filling cracks and holes
  • Much thinner texture
  • Can be messier
  • Dries very quickly
  • Strong smell

To use:

  • These will not hold well on smooth surfaces like glass or very smooth plastics.
  • They will work well in sealing and filling cracks or small holes on our surfaces as well as for repairs.
  • Wipe down the area removing dust and make sure it is dry before starting.
  • Paint your glue over the area but do not apply too thick, you will need to work quickly before this glue dries.
  • Stick the surfaces together and apply pressure following the directions on your product.

 

Gel Super Glues

  • Not suitable for outdoor use
  • The nozzle allows for better precision
  • Great for small jobs
  • Tend to dry almost instantly
  • A gel is more flexible once dried
  • Thicker consistency

To Use:

  • These will do best for vertical applications and not on smooth surfaces like glass or very smooth plastics.
  • Wipe down the area to remove any dust and let your surface dry before starting.
  • Apply a tiny blob of gel onto the area, remember just a small amount is enough.
  • Stick the surfaces together and apply pressure by following the directions on your product.

is gorilla glue stronger than super glue

 

 

Gorilla Super Glue Vs Krazy Glue

Krazy glue has the same formulation as super glue it is just another brand name for it. These adhesives work very similarly based on the ingredients. They both fall under the category of cyanoacrylates adhesives. This is what gives these instant glues their hold and texture.

There are a few subtle differences between the two, Krazy Glue comes out and is applied much thicker than Super Glue. It also takes a while longer to dry and is not as quick and easy as using super glue. After applying Krazy Glue, you will need to wait around 10 minutes before you can stop applying pressure and your project is safe to stand on its own.

Like superglues, Krazy Glues work best for indoor projects and repairs. These glues are activated by moisture in the air and once completely cured they are waterproof, making this a great choice for kitchen and bathroom work. These adhesives are considered safer to use than other glue options due to the smell. While some superglues tend to have strong odors, they are not as potent as the chemicals in the other formulated Gorilla Glues and polyurethane mixes. These adhesives will also differ in price based on their size and capabilities.

When using a Gorilla super glue, you can choose from a gel or liquid option. Krazy glues come in a small tube with a specially controlled dropper. This makes it much easier to have a gentle touch and not go overboard when using your glues. So, in the end, Gorilla super glue vs Krazy Glue would totally be based on your project requirements and the surfaces you need to be glued. Here is what you need to know about Krazy Glue and how to use it.

 

Krazy Glue, Super Glue

  • Works well on different surfaces
  • Best used for indoor or home repairs
  • Controlled dropper allows for better accuracy on smaller areas
  • Completely waterproof when dried
  • These take much longer to dry
  • Come in individuals or packs

To use:

  • This glue can be used on leather, glass, plastics, ceramics, and wood.
  • If using on a rough surface, make sure to sand and prep it first.
  • Wipe down the area, making sure your surface material is dry before starting.
  • Apply your glue to the surface, remember just a small amount is enough otherwise it will be too thick and take longer to harden.
  • Secure your surfaces and apply pressure for around 10 minutes. Then allow curing of your item while left undisturbed for a full day.

gorilla glue vs super glue

 

View our Gorilla Glue vs Super Glue web story here.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Is Gorilla Glue Stronger Than Super Glue?

This question has many deciding variables and would be based on the materials you are gluing together. Another factor to consider, would be whether your project is inside or outside. Typical superglues are not a great option for outdoor projects or areas that have high heat and moisture. These will not hold in those conditions and are best for smaller projects and use on rougher surfaces.

 

What Is the Difference Between Gorilla Glue vs Super Glue?

Gorilla glues are made from a polyurethane mix while superglues contain cyanoacrylates. These are the two main groups of adhesives and these active ingredients affect the durability and strength of each glue. This is what makes Gorilla Glue much tougher, and a preferred choice for external repairs. These glues are water-resistant and will not be affected by heat or moisture elements. Unlike Super Glue, Gorilla Glues hold better on porous surfaces, making them ideal for more jobs around the house.

 

Which Is Better: Gorilla Super Glue Vs Krazy Glue?

Gorilla super glue comes in two different forms. One is a gel glue that is applied with a small nozzle applicator, much like krazy glues. These are both great options when fixing or adhering small pieces together that require attention to detail. The other is a liquid super glue that comes with a brush applicator. Gorilla wood glue is also a wonderful tool to use when you have to fill or seal holes, gaps, or cracks. Both these options dry waterproof so they can both be used in high moisture areas like your kitchen or bathroom. The benefit to using a gorilla super glue is that it dries almost instantly while Krazy Glue can take a bit longer.

 

When it comes to Gorilla Glue vs Super Glue, or Gorilla Super Glue vs Krazy Glue, we can safely say that each product has its place and benefits. The rest will need to be decided by you once you have had some time to experiment with these different adhesives and know which is best for your specific application.