The Comprehensive Guide to Maintenance & Repair with Glue Sticks and Guns
Using glue is usually the first port of call whenever you are conducting some DIY repair.
Depending on the situation, a glue stick may be more appropriate, whereas a glue gun may be optimal in others.
But what is the best way to use them? In this blog, we will be sharing with you the comprehensive guide to maintenance & repair with glue sticks and guns.
Whether you are an established tradesman, or a homeowner attempting some simple DIY, Sealants and Tools Direct are here to provide you with the quality products you require, at the best prices.
Our range is extensive, we aim to provide you with almost anything you need to make your house, or someone else’s, the best possible home. Our range of products include, but are not limited to, Abrasives & Glass Paper, building products, carpet, and surface protection, plumbing, roofing & guttering products, tools, and equipment, and so much more.
Click here to access our full range of products, and see how we can help you today!
Why do we need glue?
Glue, whether it’s in the form of a glue stick, a glue gun, or an adhesive, performs a simple function, which is to stick two surfaces together. The width of application is extremely wide, whether you’re repairing objects, constructing models, creating art, and constructing furniture or decor, the list goes on.
Depending on the project at hand, some types of glue will be more appropriate than others. This means that you may need to do some research before using any old glue for any project. This is because some types of glue allows for flexibility, whilst others are almost immovable once they have dried.
What happens if we don’t have glue?
If we don’t have any sort of glue, you would have to resort to more complicated options for sticking surfaces together. If you’re conducting repairs, you may have to take the object to an expert, which results in you spending time and money which you may not have.
On the other hand, if you’re constructing, you will be spending more time trying to find ways to stick your objects together without damaging or compromising the structure of what you are constructing.
Is adhesive the same as glue?
Although the terms are generally interchangeable, the uses of each are not the same. Adhesives are made specifically for repairs, on objects of various sizes, for a permanent solution, especially if taking the object in for repair is not an option.
Glue, on the other hand, is more geared towards arts and crafts project, and some home projects, whether this is a glue stick or a glue gun. Glue sticks are mostly safer for children to use, whereas a glue gun would need some monitoring if a child is using it.
Glue sticks vs glue guns – what’s the difference?
Simply put, glue sticks are mostly suitable for occasions where you are sticking paper to a surface, or almost any arts and crafts project, especially for younger children.
Their application comes via a stick, you remove the lid, twist the base of the stick to allow the bar of glue to protrude, which you then follow by applying the glue to the surfaces you wish to stick together.
Glue guns offer a stronger level of hold than the glue stick. Glue guns work by heating a stick of glue whilst expelling it from its front, the hot glue then dries on the surface relatively quickly to achieve a long-lasting and reliable attachment.
Again, glue guns are more than suitable for arts and crafts projects, particularly more complicated ones such as constructing a model. However, the type of glue, and method of application allows a glue gun to be used on surfaces such as:
- Glass
- Metal
- Wood
- Ceramics
- Card
- Plastic
- Fabric
The comprehensive guide to maintenance & repair with glue sticks and guns
As we have highlighted the uses of these two resources, we thought it would be appropriate to give you a brief guide on how to use each of them. Which will give you an understanding of the best way to get the most out of these two glue delivering mechanisms.
Glue sticks
Using a glue stick is extremely straightforward, but there could be consequences if you use it wrong, whether that be ruining your project, or causing health problems. So be sure to make note of the following points.
How to use a glue stick
- Remove the lid from the glue stick.
- Twist the base of the glue stick, this will make the glue protrude from the top.
- Apply the glue to the surfaces you wish to stick. You know it's working if the glue stick feels like it is gliding on the surface, and you see residue on the surface.
- Stick the surfaces together.
- Once finished, turn the base of the glue stick the opposite way, to bring the glue back down, and cover with the lid to maintain its effectiveness.
If using a glue stick with a child…
- Do not leave a child under the age of 4 to use a glue stick without guidance, as they may try to eat it, or accidentally put the residue in their eyes.
- Test a minimal amount on your child's skin to see whether your child is allergic to the glue. If they are, consider providing gloves and eye cover.
- Show them how to use it, and how it works before allowing them to use it.
Glue guns
A more comprehensive gluing solution, glue guns are more effective, but can be more dangerous to use.
How to use a glue gun
- Plug in the glue gun (if it is wired.) Or turn it on (if it is battery powered)
- Insert the thin tube of glue in the hole of the back of the glue gun until it can’t go further.
- Press and hold the trigger to activate the heat. The glue will melt and release from the front of the glue gun. At this point, apply the glue to the desired surfaces. Release the trigger to stop the glue gun.
If a child uses a glue gun
- The must be under constant supervision.
- They must wear safety equipment.
- They must switch off the glue gun between uses.
Can I buy glue sticks and glue guns?
Yes! At Sealants and Tools Direct, we have glue sticks and glue guns to help you with your arts and crafts, or DIY needs. With a selection of hot melt glue sticks that are clear, and have coloured variants. Or just a simple glue stick, you can be sure we can provide what you’re looking for. Be sure to have a browse of our range today!
Where to purchase glue sticks and glue guns
Sealants and Tools Direct is the one-stop shop for anyone within the trade, or for those looking to conduct their own DIY. We encourage anyone with any questions about products they are interested in, or already purchased from us, to get in contact if you have any questions.
We endeavour to not only provide the right products for you, but also provide the best guidance possible. Furthermore, we hope the comprehensive guide to maintenance & repair with glue sticks and guns that we have provided, has made you learn something new.
With a host of special offers taking place over the year, be sure to stay updated with us. Our index of manufacturers whose products we sell are the seal of approval to assure you that we supply quality products, at fair prices. You can find us at…
Address:
Sealants and Tools Direct Ltd
The Old Cider Works
Abbotskerswell
Newton Abbot
Devon
TQ12 5NF
VAT No: 136 643 803
Telephone:
01626 333360
Store Email: