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Time for metal

How to glue metal to metal: Expert tips for DIY success

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Wondering how to glue metal to metal? With the right adhesive, it’s a simple DIY job. Read on and learn how to stick metal together like a pro.

The best way to glue metal to metal

If you need to know how to glue metal to metal without welding, we’ve got good news for you – all you need is the right adhesive. There’s no need for heavy-duty tools or professional help to stick two pieces of metal together. For most repairs and DIY jobs, you can simply use a dab of glue.

So, what’s the best way to glue metal to metal? Which adhesive should you choose? If you need to carry out a quick repair on a small, close fitting surface, try a super glue, such as Loctite Super Glue Liquid Control. It’s very easy to use and comes in a specially designed bottle that allows for maximum precision.

Glue is applied around a hole in a bicycle mudguard.
Loctite Epoxy creates permanent bonds and is extremely tough when bonding metal to metal and other materials

Here’s how to glue metal to metal with super glue. Twist the nozzle clockwise until it clicks, then unscrew the cap anti-clockwise.  Squeeze a small amount of glue onto one of the surfaces. Then press the pieces of metal together, applying pressure for around 30 seconds. Afterwards, leave the object to dry for at least 10 minutes – or overnight, for best results.

Super glue is a great solution for smaller, close fitting   surfaces. However, if you’re working with something larger, heavier or not close fitting or in external locations, we recommend using an epoxy instead. Epoxy glues like Loctite Extreme Epoxy are perfect for durable repairs and high strength bonds.

Preparing and applying epoxy involves a couple of extra stages. For example, you’ll have to mix the epoxy before you can use it. But it’s still a straightforward process – quicker and easier than you might expect. Once the bond is in place, you can look forward to long-lasting results. Epoxy is resilient, and resistant to water as well as most solvents. It’s also suitable for both indoor and outdoor projects.

How to glue metal to metal: Step by step

Once you’ve chosen your adhesive, you’re ready to get gluing. Next, we’ll look at how to bond metal to metal using an epoxy – Loctite Extreme Epoxy.  

These steps are general guidelines for applying epoxy. But if you’re using a different product, make sure you also consult the manufacturer’s instructions.

A torn-off holder is pressed onto a bicycle mudguard.
With the right adhesive, any repair featuring metal will be quicker in the future

Take safety precautions when using epoxy. Keep the room well-ventilated and wear gloves.

This is how to glue metal to metal:

  1. Prepare your workspace and materials. Cover your workspace with scrap paper. Make sure the metal is completely clean and dry. To improve adhesion, roughen the surface using a scraping or sanding tool. Then pre-fit the pieces.
  2. Prepare the epoxy. Put on some gloves, cut the syringe tip and fit the mixer nozzle.   Open the tube and cut the syringe tips. Turn the syringe upside down and retract the plunger, then press down.
  3. Apply the epoxy. The epoxy will be mixed inside the nozzle as it is dispensed from the tube.   Carefully dispense the mixed epoxy onto one of the surfaces to be bonded. 
  4. Bond the metal surfaces. After applying the glue, press the metal surfaces together immediately. Keep them held in position for around 10 minutes with a clamp or weight.
  5. Leave the object to dry. For best results, leave the object for 24 hours, to give the epoxy time to fully cure.
  6. Clean up. Remove any excess epoxy while it’s still wet. To remove cured epoxy, scrape carefully with a sharp blade.

That’s all you need to know about how to glue metal together! Whatever your level of DIY experience, it’s an easy job. So, grab your epoxy, then get gluing!

Products used

  • ${/content/heliux/adhesive/loctite-consumer/gb/en/products/central-pdp#/loctite-superglue-control-liquid/SAP_0201DCLSGFW6/searchResult.productFields.variants.variantMainImageAlt}
    LOCTITE SUPERGLUE Control Liquid

    LOCTITE SuperGlue Control Liquid: A squeeze bottle for controlled and precise application.

  • Loctite Extreme Epoxy Packshot
    LOCTITE Universal 1 Min Epoxy liquid

    LOCTITE Extreme 1 Min Epoxy Glue: Transparent, Instant Mix, Multi-Material!

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