Is it really necessary to glue both surfaces when joining wood?
Asked by CuriousCraftsman42
I've noticed that some folks recommend applying glue on both surfaces when doing wood joints, but I've always just applied it to one side. I find that even applying it to just one edge gives me a solid bond with some squeeze-out, and I've never run into issues. Is there a real benefit to gluing both sides, or does it just lead to more waste? I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences on this!
Answers
Gluing both sides can help prevent starving the joint, especially if the wood is particularly absorbent. It’s generally not an issue with normal wood, but with end grain, it can be necessary because that stuff can soak up a lot of glue! However, if you're not dealing with end grain, going with just one side seems to do the trick for most.
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While some may consider squeeze-out undesirable, it actually indicates good contact between pieces when applied properly. I've always used both surfaces as suggested by Norm Abrams, and I think it helps ensure a secure bond.
JoineryJourney44: But if you're getting squeeze-out from just one side, does that really mean the bond won't hold? Seems like it should be enough.
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For me, it's all about playing it safe. A little extra glue doesn’t hurt, and it can save you from the hassle of fixing a joint that might fail later on. Plus, in my shop, using one side but really saturating it has worked well for years without issues.
RepairExpert23: Exactly! Always think about how costly a fix can be if something goes wrong. Better safe than sorry.
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JoineryJunkie56: Totally agree with you! I only add glue to both surfaces when I'm working with end grain, otherwise it feels unnecessary.
WoodWizard99: I've been questioning this too. Thanks for clarifying!