Finding the perfect glue for a project can feel endless if you don't know where to begin. For example, do you want to glue metal together or use it for something but don't know if your Gorilla glue will do the trick? Does Gorilla's formula also work for metal surfaces?
Luckily, we've done plenty of research and have the answer below!
Yes, Gorilla glue should usually work for metal surfaces, whether you're gluing them to something or each other. Generally, polyurethane-based glue (Gorilla Glue) and cyanoacrylate-based adhesives (like Gorilla Super Glue) are both fine for metal.
So, you should have luck using most products from this company for your metal.
As we start this article, we will cover all things using glue on metal and discuss whether Gorilla brand products are a good fit for your project. If you're new to crafting, consider yourself a DIY expert, or need other advice, we're here to help. With that said, let's dive right into this topic!
Can You Use Gorilla Glue On Metal?
Yes, most times, you should be able to use Gorilla glue on metal and have it work. Since Gorilla-made adhesives are all-purpose (unless specified), you should be able to apply them to almost any surface.
Therefore, using Gorilla glue on metal won't be any different than using it on plastic, wood, etc. As we mentioned, the polyurethane ingredient in most basic Gorilla products is enough to stick to metal and other slippery surfaces/textures.
In addition, if you buy Gorilla Super Glue, you can expect even better adhesion. Unlike many glue brands, Gorilla is made to work in odd places and hold out in the elements.
That's why many DIYers choose it for their interior and exterior projects. Of course, you want to ensure the Gorilla glue you find applies to metal, which should be on the back.
If you shop online, we recommend reading through the recommended surfaces/uses and seeing if metal pops up. Even non-metal-specific Gorilla glues should be okay to use on the material, but again, it's better to be safe than sorry.
How Long Does It Take For Gorilla Glue To Dry On Metal?
Although this timeline can depend a bit on the climate and surface prep you've done, Gorilla glue should dry on metal within 1-5 minutes.
However, your Gorilla glue will simply adhere to the touch within those first few minutes. That means your metal won't get fully dry for much longer.
According to experts, you can usually count on Gorilla glue to fully cure on metal within 24 hours. Therefore, you don't want to leave the metal outdoors or use it too rough during those 24 hours.
On top of that, Gorilla glue tends to have a "clamp time" of around 30 seconds, meaning the two metal pieces should stay together without you holding them after that 30-second wait.
The climate where you use adhesive can also affect dry time. For example, Gorilla glue may not dry as fast in a humid setting. The same goes for extreme heat or cold, so aim for middle-ground conditions when using Gorilla glue on metal.
While you attach your metal together or to whatever else, ensure your skin doesn't get caught in the middle. Removing Gorilla products from your hands/body can be very difficult.
Is It A Good Idea To Glue Metal Together?
Yes. In general, gluing metal together is perfectly safe and effective. Since most people aren't welders, you don't have many choices for working with metal from home.
For example, you would need to weld two pieces of metal together in a controlled environment if you were constructing a home, car, or something along that magnitude.
However, if you use Gorilla glue for crafts or a DIY indoor/outdoor project, Gorilla glue is a nice alternative. Not all glue is the same, so we recommend finding a tough product.
Even though Gorilla glue might be slightly more expensive than a generic brand version: that's because it works and holds better. Remember, metal can be slippery, which is glue's worst nightmare.
Since most basic adhesives only work on dry, matte surfaces, Gorilla can out-compete them with metal/unconventional surfaces.
You also don't need to use that much Gorilla product to get metal to adhere to itself or something else, meaning less wasted product and money.
So, it's a good idea to glue metal if you use the correct product.
What's The Best Gorilla Product For Metal?
One of the best Gorilla glue products for metal is their "GorillaWeld." This product sticks metal together using strong and heavy-duty steel bond epoxy.
In addition, the formula has a 4250 PSI bond strength and sets in just 10 minutes. Like we said earlier, you don't want to use the metal for about a day after Gorilla glue, but it won't be flimsy after ten minutes.
On top of its impressive specs, GorillaWeld is also waterproof and should give a permanent result to metal, plastic, concrete, ceramic, PVC, fiberglass, and more.
Again, you should get good results from basic Gorilla glue if you see the polyurethane ingredient, but GorillaWeld is more metal-specific.
Many people have success using the Gorilla Super Glue line on metal, too, so you should have a few good options to choose from while shopping.
Gorilla Heavy Duty GorillaWeld Steel Bond
This Gorilla glue works for metal, promises an incredibly strong hold, has a PSI of 4,250, waterproofs within a few minutes, dries dark grey, has a two-step application, and comes in a few bundle options.
Follow this link to view it on Amazon.
Can I Use Gorilla Glue On Outdoor Metal Surfaces?
If you need to work on metal outdoors with Gorilla glue, this should be fine. As we mentioned, Gorilla products are waterproof within a few minutes, often unbothered by the elements.
Therefore, if you are gluing metal, you plan to keep it outside; this won't be an issue. The key is allowing your Gorilla glue to cure for 24 hours before letting nature take its course.
If possible, we recommend protecting the glued metal for at least a day and then doing what you want with it. For example, if you fix a metal bird bath, bring it into a protected area while making the repair.
Let the Gorilla glue settle for a few minutes before testing it, and then allow for 24 hours to pass. This goes for anything, whether your project is big or small.
You don't want your Gorilla glue to be less effective because you didn't let it cure. Even the strongest adhesives have specific guidelines you need to follow for them to work correctly.
If you run into issues or have other questions about Gorilla products, you can always contact them directly through their website.
What Happens If Metal Gets Wet After Gorilla Glue?
Most times, nothing will happen if the metal gets wet after you let the Gorilla glue cure on it. Usually, once your glue is dry, water will not be able to penetrate it or weaken its bond.
That's because Gorilla uses waterproofing agents in their glue to allow it to work outdoors/long-term. In addition, your Gorilla glue should be pretty hardy within a few minutes of application.
Therefore, if rain or accidental water contact, you might be okay to let your metal continue drying. Again, you don't want to soak a newly glued metal, but your product should dry fast.
One of the reasons Gorilla adhesives are so popular is that they're easy to use and quick to dry. If you've ever tested Gorilla glue on a sheet of paper or scrap material, you'll likely see it dry to the touch and waterproof within ten minutes.
Many experts recommend letting your metal/surface sit and cure indoors for 24 hours to keep water away, and then move the item outdoors if necessary.
Is Gorilla Glue Permanent?
Yes. All Gorilla products will dry permanently on the surface you apply them to. One of the benefits of Gorilla glue is that it promises to stay on a surface for the foreseeable future.
Unlike most adhesives that may lose their bond after a few months or years, Gorilla typically lasts much longer. So, in a way, no glue will ever be permanent.
However, Gorilla glue should have the same lifespan as the metal/material it's on, which is very impressive. You can also expect Gorilla glue to last far longer inside than outdoors, so that's something to think about.
Gorilla's website advertises one of their adhesive products as "a permanent alternative to glue, " another interesting tidbit to remember. Since this company makes every bonding product you can imagine, you're bound to find the perfect one for your metal project.
Does Gorilla Glue Dry Clear?
Depending on the formula, your Gorilla glue will dry clear/yellowish or grey/whatever color they advertise. For example, GorillaWeld dries grey since it's mainly for metal surfaces.
In contrast, normal Gorilla adhesive will dry clear or yellowish, which is the standard. With that said, your glue may take on a whiteish color after it dries, so there are variations.
Regardless, the glue shouldn't be too noticeable but try and use it sparingly.
To Finish Up
Whether you need to use Gorilla glue for your metal project or haven't considered it, we found this is a good alternative to traditional welding. Generally, Gorilla glue will be sticky enough to bond metal surfaces.
That means interior and exterior metal projects can be put together using Gorilla's extensive line of adhesives. If you want to get metal-specific, we suggest GorillaWeld, which should dry grey and work best for metal.
Lastly, you can use regular Gorilla glue with polyurethane as an ingredient or the brand's "Super Glue" line. Good luck!
And while we have your attention, check out these related craft articles:
Does Gorilla Glue Work On Brick And Concrete?