10 Best Glue for Styrofoam January 2023

Assembling an art project is enjoyable until you realize that some of the components are made of Styrofoam. And although toothpicks and tape may be used, they are not as effective as other adhesives. Therefore, if you are attempting to hold your artwork together, the Best Glue for Styrofoam may be necessary.

However, there are several kinds of glue available, and not all of them are compatible with Styrofoam. It might be difficult to find the ideal adhesive for styrofoam, regardless of whether you need to adhere styrofoam to other materials or multiple polystyrene plates together. And this is why our selection of top options might assist you in putting everything together.

Our No.1 Overall Selection

UHUP Styrofoam Adhesive

When dealing with styrofoam, it is essential to be aware that some glues and adhesives may compromise the structural integrity of styrofoam or even melt it, while others may not adhere at all and be useless.

The best adhesives for gluing Styrofoam constructions are often designed for use with polystyrene. These so-called styroglues are ideal for a variety of Styrofoam and polystyrene applications since they do not melt the surface of the material but are still strong enough to form a sustainable connection. They are very effective in adhering polystyrene plates together.

The Uhu Por Styrofoam Adhesive is the best glue for styrofoam because of its positive ratings and overall good quality.

As one of the finest glues for styrofoam, Uhu Por Styrofoam Glue is a very well-liked solution for a broad variety of styrofoam uses. This substance bonds Styrofoam to other objects and itself permanently, securing the foam in place with a strong cure hold.

According to reviews, this glue is mild and will not harm Styrofoam while providing a very smooth and seamless finish on the finished project. This makes it a worthwhile option for small and big projects alike!

Key attributes:

• Unbreakable bond
• Soft on foam
• Long storage duration
• Describe Styrofoam

Styrofoam is often referred to as a blue board. Styrofoam is created from styrene, which is a chemical derived from petroleum. Styrene is refined into polystyrene by polymerization, and then a hydrofluorocarbon agent is applied. This slurry is then placed onto flatbeds after being removed from the mixing vats. On these flat beds, the mixture expands into Styrofoam boards.

Keep in mind that strictly speaking, Styrofoam is a sort of plastic. Also noteworthy is the fact that Styrofoam iasad(AMXN)iqbal2288s is toxic to both people and the environment.

What Styrofoam is, especially in connection to polystyrene, is something that we want to make crystal clear here. This is because the phrase polystyrene appears often in the current article. Notably, polystyrene is the generic term for this substance, whereas Styrofoam is the trademarked brand name.

Types of Styrofoam Glue

When shopping for glue for Styrofoam, there are a few factors to consider to guarantee you acquire a solution that will do the job without causing damage to your materials. Consequently, it is essential to learn which kinds of adhesives are compatible with Styrofoam. Let’s examine your alternatives.

Are you pressed for time or want a rapid response?

The following table provides an overview of our findings.

1. Uhu POR Styrofoam Adhesive (Our top Pick)
2. Weldbond 8-50420 Multi-Purpose Adhesive Glue
3. Everbuild Universal PVA Bond (Arts and crafts projects)
4. Loctite PL 300 Foamboard VOC Latex Construction Adhesive (Scrapbooks and repairing photographs)
5. Elmer’s E461 Craftbond Tacky Glue (All types of glue gun temperature settings)
6. Tombow 62191 Mono Multi Liquid Glue – Dual Tip Multi-Purpose Glue (Doll repaints, collages, and knick-knack repairs)
7. Surebonder DT-2010 Clear Stik Glue Stick – Hot Glue for Styrofoam (Arts and craft projects, soundproofing, light-duty repairs, and more)
8. Aleene’s 17843 Quick Dry Tacky Glue – Craft Project Glue (Construction projects and repairs)
9. 3M General Purpose 45 Spray Adhesive
10. Liquid Nails LN-903 Heavy Duty Construction Adhesive, Tan

Epoxy

Epoxies are adhesives created by converting epoxy resin into a useful product. There are a variety of epoxies available, some of which are incompatible with Styrofoam and can induce an exothermic reaction, resulting in the polystyrene block melting. You must exercise extreme caution around the foam formed here, since it may be irritating to the skin.

Due to the healed nature of the final connection, epoxies are excellent for forming long-lasting, permanent bonding. Epoxy is a good choice to consider if you need to glue polystyrene plates together and you need the bond to endure.

Dual-Component Acrylic Adhesives

Two-component acrylic adhesives connect polystyrene without deteriorating the material or compromising its integrity. These may need either curing time or UV exposure to completely bind. The majority of the time, the resultant bond is very transparent and will not yellow with time, making it acceptable for visible adhesion sites. In other words, if the polystyrene will be visible, this is a viable alternative to consider.

Flexible silicone-based adhesives

Silicone-based adhesives provide pliable adherence for regions that come into frequent touch with other surfaces and need give. They offer high adhesion, but may not be ideal for heavily-trafficked environments. This is ideal for polystyrene that will not see heavy traffic. This sort of adhesive is also compatible with acrylic.

Cyanoacrylate (Super Glue)

Cyanoacrylate is an acrylic resin that forms a highly strong, fast, durable, and often permanent bind, making it an ideal adhesive for polystyrene plates. If there is insufficient water in the air, its effectiveness is diminished. In most conditions, however, it works flawlessly to swiftly connect two surfaces, even Styrofoam plates.

PVA

PVA, also known as polyvinyl acetate, is another form of adhesive that may be used with Styrofoam. PVA is sometimes referred to as white glue and wood glue. Evidently, the major use of PVA glue is to adhere to things like paper, wood, and cloth. Consequently, PVA glue is effective on porous materials.

Polystyrene is a porous substance, hence it is compatible with PVA glue. Remember that PVA glue is not very strong. When it comes to weight-bearing applications, PVA glue is not the greatest choice. However, if you are working with polystyrene in an arts and crafts project, PVA glue is an excellent option to explore.

How to Glue Styrofoam in Detail

It is not difficult to adhere polystyrene to other surfaces or even to other polystyrene plates. Before making a connection on a surface without melting the material, it is necessary to pick an appropriate glue type. We believe that spray adhesive is an excellent choice since it can be used for a variety of purposes.

Then, you just dry the foam’s surface and apply it as evenly as possible, following the packaging’s instructions. Allow it to dry or cure according to the instructions, and you should be good to go!

Check out this video from Black Hill Foam Works for a more comprehensive look! This provides straightforward instructions on how to adhere to polystyrene plates.

Methodically

Whether you want to connect styrofoam to other styrofoam or to other materials, you need the proper adhesive first.

Use a moist cloth to remove dust and dirt, then a dry towel to dry the area. If you want the glue to adhere well, there must be no moisture or other particles present.

As specified in the product’s instructions, apply the product to the polystyrene surface.

Depending on the product, it may be necessary to clamp the two parts together. Allow the product to dry and cure according to the packaging’s instructions.

Precautions to Ensure Safety

The greatest issue while working with polystyrene is to constantly be aware of whether or not it is melting. Polystyrene plates that have melted may become liquid and transfer to the skin, producing burns or discomfort. Also, when melted or otherwise subjected to heat, polystyrene may emit potentially hazardous carbon monoxide. If you see foam developing, go aside and wait until the process stops. The components of polystyrene may potentially provide choking concerns in young children.

The Ideal Glue for Styrofoam

Uhu POR Styrofoam Adhesive

Uhu Por polystyrene Adhesive is one of the most well-liked goods within the market and a very often used long-term item. Its formulation is fast-bonding, although a sufficient curing time is required. It is a heavier recipe that, according to some, works well with a tiny spatula or putty knife to provide an evenly dispersed coating, while others indicate that smaller surface areas may be sanded without extra aid.

Due to the formulation’s thickness, it is appropriate for use on walls. In any case, this is a terrific product with overwhelmingly favorable feedback that lends itself nicely to a variety of polystyrene adhesion problems. Moreover, despite its exceptional quality, it is relatively reasonable and, if maintained in the correct circumstances, will survive for quite a time after being opened.

Pros

• Very solid binding
• Affordable
• Does not disintegrate the surfaces of Styrofoam
• Not produce hazardous foam
• Insensitive to solvents

Cons

• The short delay required before sticking together
• Takes a while to cure
• Single-purpose product

Weldbond 8-50420 Multi-Purpose Adhesive Glue

Weldbond is a well-known brand name in the adhesive sector. The company has been in operation for many years and caters to a diverse variety of customers’ adhesion requirements.

Due to its capacity to safely and firmly connect a broad variety of materials, even some that may possibly melt like polystyrene, its Multi-Purpose Adhesive Glue is one of the most popular items within its catalog. This is because it can be applied to a wide variety of surfaces. This product is recognized by many reviewers as the best multi-purpose product that works with polystyrene, which makes it a great competitor for any job that needs a strong yet non-corrosive connection.

Because of its thick consistency, it is an excellent choice for application on walls. In addition to this, the no-mess tip and squeeze bottle application make it incredibly simple and uncomplicated to use. The price is also quite reasonable. With a device that is of such great quality, so simple to use, and so inexpensive as this one, you really can’t go wrong. It even provides a smooth and uniform finish, which makes it an excellent choice for use in applications with obvious areas, such as restorations or work on minor details.

Pros

• Effortless completion
• Simple to operate
• No Mess
• Will not result in the formation of toxic foam

Cons

• Hardens rapidly
• Has strong scent
• If it were to leak, it would be difficult to clean up.

Everbuild Universal PVA Bond

PVA glue often called white glue or wood glue has been around for a long time and is shown here. This is a versatile or multi-use tool, since it may be used for a variety of materials like Styrofoam, wood, paper, textiles, and more.

This product is meant to adhere to a wide variety of construction materials, and it also has the capability of functioning as a primer. When it comes to adhering things together, this product has very few limitations in terms of the applications it can fulfill.

Pros

• Perfect for use in construction materials
• Similar in quality for use in artistic endeavors
• Solid connection
• Compatible with the majority of materials

Cons

• Slower drying times

Loctite PL 300 Foamboard VOC Latex Construction Adhesive

Because it is specifically formulated to stop styrofoam from melting and foaming, this product is ideal for use when adhering styrofoam to other surfaces, such as when gluing it. In addition, this solution works well for bonding a wide range of porous materials, including styrofoam, paper, and many others.

Because this product is water-resistant as well as weather-resistant, it may, if necessary, be used for applications that take place outside. This is another advantage of using this product. Having said that, one aspect of this medication that is not exactly wonderful is the fact that it may take up to an entire week to completely heal.

Pros

• Great hold
• Designed for styrofoam
• Compatible with the majority of porous materials
• Will not melt the foam
• Resistant to the elements

Cons

• The extremely drawn-out maturation period

Elmer’s E461 Craftbond Tacky Glue

Because of its simple application and cleanup process, Elmer’s glue is a popular brand that can be found in a variety of settings, including homes and schools. Almost everything, even polystyrene, may be easily adhered to one another with the help of this sticky adhesive. Additionally, as it dries, you will have a transparent adhesive that is flexible, which will assist you in finishing your artwork.

Pros

• Utilizable on porous and semi-porous surfaces
• Clearly dries
• No run formula
• Acid-free
• Not produce harmful foam

Cons

• Not adhering to the laminate
• Does not bind plastics together
• Drying time may be prolonged on felt and comparable fabrics

Tombow 62191 Mono Multi Liquid Glue – Dual Tip Multi-Purpose Glue

Tombow is an excellent brand of adhesive that provides customers with a diverse range of options for gluing almost any kind of project. Their mono multi-liquid glue is perfect for making scrapbooks, collages, and even styrofoam masterpieces that will be remembered for a long time. This glue dries transparent and odorless, despite having precise tips, and it does not leave behind any residue when it is dry.

Pros

• Applicators with two different tips, a wide one and a pen tip
• Compatible with the usage of pictures.
• Acid-free
• Washable
• Excellent for use in creative endeavors
• It will not result in the formation of toxic foam

Cons

• Paper won’t stick to wood very well.
• Doesn’t work well on handmade paper

Surebonder DT-2010 Clear Stik Glue Stick – Hot Glue for Styrofoam

Although there is a school of thought that holds that applying hot glue to polystyrene is a poor idea, the Surebonder Clear Stic glue stick challenges that notion. These hot glue sticks are mild enough that they won’t damage delicate materials like lace or ribbon, and they’re even safe to use on balloons.

Because of its thick consistency, it is an excellent choice for application on walls. The greatest thing is that you can use these hot glue sticks with whatever project your kid is working on, even if it involves styrofoam. It takes between 60 and 65 seconds for it to cling and dry completely.

Pros

• The rapid rate of drying time
• Excellent for uses that call for quick response times
• Sticks that can be used in high-, low-, and dual-temperature glue guns.
• Can be used on a variety of substrates including but not limited to leather, cloth, glass, and metal.
• Clear when it dries
• Invulnerable to the effects of solvents
• It will not result in the formation of toxic foam

Cons

• Could fail to function

Aleene’s 17843 Quick Dry Tacky Glue – Craft Project Glue

Aleene’s is a well-known brand of glue that has proven to be an excellent option for a large number of crafters. This adhesive is versatile enough to stick polystyrene to any surface, and it can even connect other materials, such as cloth, to metal. Because it has such a narrow tip, applying the glue precisely where you need it is a breeze. Because it is non-toxic and safe, sticky glue is an excellent choice for craft projects that youngsters will be working on.

Pros

• The formulation that is not poisonous
• Clear and pliable when it has dried.
• Compatible with a wide variety of materials, including but not limited to metal, styrofoam, plastic, ceramics, and wood.
• Dries rapidly
• Perfect for uses that call for accuracy and precision.
• It will not result in the formation of toxic foam

Cons

• Because of the humidity, drying may take longer.
• Before you can use the bottle, you will need to cut off the very top of it.

3M General Purpose 45 Spray Adhesive

Putting things together is a breeze when you use the all-purpose spray adhesive from 3M since you don’t have to worry about messes or having extra glue. You may apply as many layers of this spray glue using the aerosol as you see fit. Polystyrene is one of the many materials that may be bonded in as little as 30 seconds to as much as 15 minutes by using an adhesive that has a pH that is neutral.

This glue is simple to apply and simple to put away after it has served its purpose. It’s a well-known truth that sprays adhesives such as this one are ridiculously simple to work with. The fact that this material can expand to fill in spaces makes it an excellent choice for that purpose.

Pros

• No-drip vertical application
• Styrofoam, metal, cork, wood, and a variety of other materials are among those that may be worked with using this tool.
• The greater extent of coverage
• Perfect for uses that need a significant amount of surface area

Cons

• Is not available for purchase inside the boundaries of the state of California
• When used, a mask is required to protect from highly combustible and hazardous gases.
• A possible source of irritated skin

Liquid Nails LN-903 Heavy Duty Construction Adhesive, Tan

Those who are interested in gluing polystyrene tiles and other building tasks may use an adhesive that is offered by Liquid Nails. This simple-to-apply glue is intended to provide you with a connection that is durable, resilient, and adaptable over a long period of time.

It is a low-solvent adhesive that in addition to being certified by the UL environment also satisfies the requirements of the GREENGUARD standard.

Pros

• Waterproof as well as resistant to the elements
• bonds in twenty minutes, giving you plenty of opportunity to reposition yourself before the permanent
• Ability to work with a diverse assortment of building materials
• Will not result in the formation of toxic foam
• Perfect for a wide variety of uses
• Able to endure temperatures of up to 149 degrees Celsius (300 degrees Fahrenheit)

Cons

• Not a great choice for situations involving floors
• Does not work on mirrors, ceramics, marble, concrete, stone, granite, or plastic, vinyl, or plastic vinyl
• Use of this product requires a caulking gun

FAQ about Glue for Styrofoam

It might be challenging to find a polystyrene adhesive that is versatile enough to adhere to foam pieces of varying sizes and shapes. You may also want a glue that is compatible with a variety of substrates in addition to the Styrofoam. And if you have a good adhesive on hand, you can bring almost anything you construct out of Styrofoam to life. You’ll find a table that may assist you in selecting the most suitable glue for your various creative endeavors further down the page.

The following are some of the most often-asked questions about the many kinds of glue that may be used for Styrofoam.

How can adhesives be used to bind pieces of Styrofoam together?

You just need an adhesive that can attach styrofoam together without melting it to a significant degree in order to glue polystyrene together. Apply adhesive using your glue to both of the pieces of Styrofoam that you desire to link together.

After applying an equal layer of glue to each of the sections, you must next bring them together and wait for them to cure. Keep in mind that this particular sort of foam may be rather fragile, therefore using the appropriate type of adhesive is absolutely necessary.

What kinds of adhesive are OK for use with Styrofoam?

Polystyrene glue is the most suitable form of adhesive for use with styrofoam. Due to the fact that both the glue and the Styrofoam are made of the same substance, a strong link is formed between the two. Cyanoacrylate is the most effective adhesive for styrofoam, and if you don’t want to wait too long for the glue to cure, it’s the finest choice. If you want to make your life simpler, you should invest in a decent spray adhesive since it can be used for a variety of purposes, including gap-filling once it has expanded.

What may be adhered to Styrofoam?

The adhesives that are compatible with styrofoam are the ones that are going to be the most effective when it comes to bonding styrofoam together. Styrofoam may be bonded to other materials using adhesives that are designed for general use. If you want to attach the rubber to styrofoam, then you will need to hunt for an adhesive that connects with both rubber and polyethylene.

Styrofoam is a kind of polyethylene. The spray adhesive will adhere to polystyrene, and since it is so simple to apply, it may be used for a wide variety of purposes. Always keep in mind that for tasks that need gap-filling, you will need something that expands when it dries.

How long, on average, does it take for adhesives made of Styrofoam to dry?

The amount of time needed for most adhesives to dry varies greatly from one kind of glue to another. It is recommended that you wait the entire twenty-four hours for the glue to properly harden before using it. Because many cyanoacrylate adhesives dry in a short amount of time, the amount of time needed to wait might vary anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours.

Drying durations for industrial adhesives may need to be as long as 72 hours. The drying time for an adhesive that is applied via a spray won’t be too lengthy. It is important to keep in mind that adhesives that end up expanding after they have dried often dry rather quickly.

How exactly does one go about removing unwanted glue from Styrofoam?

Water or acetone will need to be used as the solvent, depending on the kind of glue that you are working with. Soap and warm water, along with some water-based adhesives, may be used to remove them. Other kinds of adhesives need even more powerful solvents, such as acetone, to remove them.

Because acetone has the potential to melt Styrofoam, you will need to dilute it. Using the cotton swab and the diluted acetone, you will remove the glue, and then you will let it dry.

What is the lowest temperature at which styrofoam will melt?

Styrofoam’s melting temperature is 464 degrees Fahrenheit or 240 degrees Celsius. This is the temperature at which polystyrene, the substance from which Styrofoam is formed, begins to melt.

Is it possible to use super glue on Styrofoam?

Absolutely, any cyanoacrylate will do the trick when working with polystyrene. However, in addition to adhering the polystyrene together, it also melts the substance. The styrofoam will melt if you use any glue that has acetone or ethyl acetate as a component.

Conclusion

It almost seems too wonderful to be true when someone says they’ve found a glue that works on Styrofoam. But if you use our best recommendation or any of our other good options, you won’t have any trouble at all getting Styrofoam to adhere to any surface. With the help of this guidance, we hope you were able to locate the ideal adhesive for your project that was made of Styrofoam.