Contact cement: Durable, versatile, quick and easy to use

This article on contact cement will show you some of the unique uses of this versatile adhesive. Follow our step-by-step directions and you’ll achieve great results.

Contact adhesive (or contact cement) is a unique type of glue made from natural or synthetic rubber or neoprene. It is known for forming an extremely strong bond between two surfaces coated with contact cement and joined while the glue is tacky.

An advantage of contact adhesive is that it works well on fabrics, leather, and other flexible materials since the glue itself remains flexible. Also, spray contact cement will not generally bleed through fabrics or curl paper when applied, as some other adhesives do.

Contact glue will resist moisture, temperature extremes, and movement or vibration quite well. Bond strength is also variable. For a permanent bond, join your parts very quickly after spreading or spraying the adhesive. If you want a temporary bond, let the glue become quite tacky before pressing the items together.

There are many types and formulas of contact cement on the market, including brush-on and spray-on varieties. Let’s talk about the brush-applied version first.

Please note that these differ in color and strength. So always check the label to ensure you are getting the right adhesive for your project. For example, some adhesives will dry clear while others may dry to a translucent yellow or brown. If the glue may be visible once applied, keep this factor in mind.

Most contact cement glue intended for brush-on application is packaged in a can or jar. Some brands may include a brush attached to the inside of the lid. You will want to work on a workbench or put a drop cloth on the table to catch any drips. Here are some tools and supplies to have on hand:

• disposable paint brush or foam rubber brush
• paint stirrer
• disposable paint roller (for large projects)
• rubber roller to press out bubbles (if gluing cloth, paper, or other flexible materials)
• mineral spirits and cloths
• latex or nitrile gloves

Always work in a well-ventilated area or wear a respirator.

Now you’re ready to begin application. Contact adhesive is well suited to bond laminate to other wood surfaces, such as flooring or furniture. You can use it to apply countertop laminates to the wood substrate, for example. Contact glue is also a good choice when it comes to adhere paper products, such as charts or posters, to a display board.

Here is how to do it:

1. Open the can of contact glue.
2. Stir the adhesive with a paint stirring stick.
3. Test fit the items to be bonded to ensure a good match. (You won’t be able to reposition them later.)
4. Apply contact cement to both surfaces using the brush or roller. To prevent the glue from “balling up” avoid going over the same areas repeatedly.
5. Wait until the adhesive becomes tacky before joining the items. (Tacky adhesive is a bit sticky but not wet, and it will not come off on your fingers.) Please read and follow directions on the label as to the amount of waiting time needed for the best bond.
6. Join your surfaces together and press firmly. If possible, use a rubber roller to enhance the bond and remove any air bubbles.
7. Allow the contact glue to fully cure before using the item.
8. Clean up immediately with mineral spirits, acetone, or the manufacturer’s recommended solvent. (Excess dried contact cement on delicate surfaces may be removed with heat and gentle scraping.)

Contact adhesive spray is another method of application that works very well on large projects, fabrics, and paper items such as poster boards.

Here is how to use it:

1. Prepare a work area, covering up any items that might receive overspray.
2. Pre-fit your cloth or material so that you can place it precisely once glue has been applied.
3. Spray evenly over both surfaces. (For an extra strong bond, allow the glue to become tacky and spray a second coat.)
4. Join your items and press firmly, working out any air pockets.
5. Use a rubber roller if possible to ensure a good bond.
6. Allow the item to fully dry before use.