How to remove glue from wood:
The basics
Wondering how to remove glue from wood? Concerned your items may be damaged thanks to a spill or accident? Not to worry. Follow our simple steps to remove the glue without causing damage.
Before you bust out a bottle of wood glue for your next DIY project, it always helps to think ahead and be prepared. Like having the tools on hand to deal with any accidents or spills.
So, what are the basic clean-up tools you’ll need? Here’s a list:
First test your glue removal method on a small piece of the wood, ideally an area that isn’t visible, such as the underside of the table. This will ensure that you don’t damage the wood finish.
Before you get too frustrated with the mess you’ve got on your hands, just remember that it is possible to remove glue from wood with just a little work. The most important tip when removing glue residue from wood is to first gently scrape away as much of the glue as possible. This, of course, applies only to dried glue. Use the scraping tools mentioned above.
Next, soak the clean rag or towel with your dissolvent and then gently place it on the spill. Be careful not to leave it there for more than a few minutes, and then wipe away the glue as it dissolves.
Experts recommend that you finish the job by applying a matte or glossy wood finish to ensure a neat, uniform look.
So, what happens if the glue you have spilled happens to be super glue? This adhesive is known for being extremely strong, adhering to just about any material and surface. The good news is that, more often than not, it can still be removed by following the steps outlined above. Some of these products also have instructions on the back detailing the best ways to get them off surfaces. So, when it comes to how to remove super glue from wood, first read the label of the particular glue you’ve used.
Of course, a central part of all woodworking jobs is choosing the right wood glue in the first place. LePage offers a wide variety of excellent options including the Express Quick Dry Wood Glue that dries in just 10 minutes. This is ideal if your project consists of multiple pieces, and you need each section to be dry before moving on. Additional features include a high bond strength of up to 3500 psi and the ability to be sanded once dried. Plus, its Easy Flow System ensures precise application and minimizes drips.
If it’s an outdoor project you are working on, then LePage’s Outdoor Weatherproof Wood Glue is a great option. This premium glue, which also comes in an Easy Flow bottle for maximum precision, is moisture and water resistant, making it perfect for outdoor conditions. You can also use it indoors if you need a water-resistant option. Once cured, it can be sanded and painted, and it is able to blend in with the majority of wood tones since it dries to a translucent brown.
