When it comes to woodworking, choosing the right adhesive is crucial for the durability and longevity of your projects. Franklin International, a trusted name in adhesives, offers two standout options for wood glue: Titebond III Ultimate and Titebond II Premium. While Titebond III is known for its ultimate waterproof properties, we are going to focus on Titebond II Premium, a versatile and reliable water-resistant wood glue.

What Makes Titebond II Premium Special?

Titebond II Premium is a professional-grade adhesive designed for both interior and exterior woodworking projects. Its standout feature is its water resistance, making it an excellent choice for projects that may encounter occasional exposure to moisture. It passes the rigorous ANSI Type II water-resistance test, demonstrating its ability to hold strong even under challenging conditions.

The ANSI Type II Water-Resistance Test: What It Means

The water-resistance test involves several steps to ensure durability:

  1. Gluing and Preparing Samples: Birch plywood is glued and formed into 6x6-inch sheets.
  2. Cutting for Testing: These sheets are trimmed into 2x5-inch specimens.
  3. Soaking and Baking Cycles:
    • Specimens are soaked in water for 4 hours.
    • They are then baked at 120°F for 19 hours.
    • This cycle is repeated three times.
  4. Shear Strength Test: The glue must withstand stress without delaminating.

Passing this test confirms Titebond II's ability to endure wet conditions, making it a great option for outdoor applications.

Ideal Uses for Titebond II Premium

The versatility of Titebond II Premium makes it suitable for a range of woodworking projects, especially those exposed to occasional moisture. Popular applications include:

  • Birdhouses: Protects against rain and damp conditions.
  • Outdoor Furniture: Great for benches, picnic tables, and garden chairs.
  • Mailboxes and Signs: Reliable for exterior wooden structures.
  • Cabinetry: Commonly used in cabinet shops for its strong bond and water resistance.

Key Features of Titebond II Premium

  • Water Resistance: Suitable for exterior use, passing ANSI Type II standards.
  • Professional Strength: Strong adhesive properties ensure durability.
  • Versatility: Works well for both indoor and outdoor projects.
  • Ease of Use:
    • Assembly time: 5–10 minutes.
    • Clamping time: Minimum 30 minutes.
    • Application temperature: Must be above 55°F.

How Does Titebond II Compare to Titebond III?

While Titebond II is excellent for most woodworking projects, there are instances where Titebond III may be a better fit:

  • Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant: Titebond III passes the more stringent ANSI Type I test, making it fully waterproof.
  • Longer Assembly Time: Titebond III offers nearly double the assembly time, ideal for complex projects.
  • Lower Application Temperature: Titebond III can be used in colder conditions.

Despite these advantages, Titebond II remains a cost-effective choice for most projects, particularly those that don't require extreme waterproofing.

Tips for Using Titebond II Premium

To achieve the best results with Titebond II, keep these tips in mind:

  1. Use Dry Wood: Ensure the wood is dry before applying the glue. Moist wood may compromise the bond.
  2. Clamp Effectively: Secure the project in clamps for at least 30 minutes to allow the adhesive to set properly.
  3. Monitor Temperature: Maintain a workspace temperature above 55°F to ensure optimal performance.

Conclusion

Titebond II Premium is a reliable, professional-grade wood glue that strikes a balance between performance and affordability. Its water-resistant properties and strong adhesive bond make it an excellent choice for both hobbyists and professionals. Whether you’re building outdoor furniture, birdhouses, or cabinetry, Titebond II offers the strength and resilience you need for your projects to stand the test of time.

For those who need extended working time or complete waterproofing, Titebond III may be worth the investment. However, for most woodworking enthusiasts, Titebond II is the go-to adhesive for high-quality, water-resistant results.

Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions on orders, products, alternatives, projects, etc.  Our staff are ready to help Monday thru Friday 8am - 5pm CST. 

Our toll free number is 800-383-0130 or email us at [email protected].