Best rubber glue for you

How to glue rubber together: Everything you need to know

If you want to know how to glue rubber together, this article is for you. We’ll give you all the details to make your project or repair a success.

How to glue rubber together: What types of glue work best?

From boots and shoe soles to rubber seals and gaskets to hoses and toys, just look around your home, and you’re almost sure to find several items made of rubber. Rubber is a tough and resilient material, but sometimes it can tear or come loose and need repair. With the right adhesive, you can do the job yourself and save the cost of replacement.

But what type of adhesive would you use to glue rubber together? We’re here to help you make the right choice. Super glue is the best option to glue rubber to rubber or to other materials in many cases.

Not all super glue formulas are the same. In fact, they can vary widely. So, you’ll want to choose a super glue that is compatible with rubber and one that stays flexible if the item is subject to bending or vibration.

Loctite Super Glue Power Gel Control is among the strongest super glues available, yet its rubber-infused formula stays flexible. It is ideal for porous materials such as rubber, leather, and wood but will also bond to most metals and plastics as well. The easy-grip, precision dispenser makes precise applications a breeze. Weather and shock-resistant, this super glue is perfect for quick repairs almost anywhere.

Loctite Extreme Gel can handle continuous flexing or vibration, but it is stout enough to fill gaps as well. Making it great to repair shoe soles, hoses, and other flexible rubber material. This high-viscosity adhesive features Flextec technology for a strong bond that stays flexible. It provides excellent resistance to extreme conditions such as moisture, impact, temperature fluctuations, and UV light. Extreme Gel dries quickly to a crystal-clear finish.

How to glue rubber: Basic instructions

Gluing rubber is very much like gluing any other material. Here are the basic instructions for using super glue to glue rubber together.

  1. Surface preparation. Ensure that the surfaces you want to bond are clean, dry, and free of grease or oils. Use rubbing alcohol to remove any residue.
  2. Always pre-fit the pieces before applying adhesive.
  3. Apply a small amount of super glue to one surface.
  4. Press the parts together and hold them in place for 15–30 seconds until the glue sets.
  5. Allow to cure fully.  Leave the item undisturbed until the glue fully sets. In most cases, allow 24 hours for full strength.
  6. Clean up immediately. Remove any excess wet adhesive with a damp paper towel or cloth. Dried adhesive can be carefully removed with a sharp blade.

Work in a well-ventilated area with adequate lighting, and make sure to wear nitrile gloves as well as safety glasses when working with adhesives.