Introduction

In this article, we will discuss a quick tip shared by Mike Thompson regarding the use of wood glue as a sealant. If you’ve ever struggled with sealing porous surfaces like MDF or needed a solution for styrofoam that is resistant to bondo, this tip might just be the answer you’re looking for.

How to Use Wood Glue as a Sealant

  1. Assess the Surface: Before using wood glue as a sealant, it is important to assess the surface you’ll be working on. Porous surfaces like MDF or styrofoam often present specific challenges when it comes to finishing or painting. They tend to have fuzzy edges and do not easily absorb paint.

  2. Dilute the Wood Glue: To overcome these challenges, dilute a little bit of wood glue with water. The proper ratio of water to glue will depend on the porosity of the surface. Mike Thompson recommends starting with a 5:1 mixture and adjusting it as needed. For more porous surfaces, a 1:1 mixture might be required.

  3. Application: Once you have your diluted wood glue mixture ready, brush it onto the surface you want to seal. Ensure that you apply an even coat, covering the entire area.

  4. Drying Process: Allow the wood glue to dry completely. This will result in a hard surface that can be sanded and painted, providing a smooth and finish-ready base.

How Wood Glue as a Sealant Works

Wood glue, when diluted and used as a sealant, works by creating a hard and smooth surface on porous materials. It effectively seals the surface, preventing any further absorption of moisture or other contaminants. The sealed surface is then ready for additional finishing, painting, or any other desired application.

Advantages of Using Wood Glue as a Sealant

  1. Cost-Effective: Wood glue is an inexpensive solution compared to other specialized sealants in the market. It is easily accessible and can be found in most hardware or craft stores.

  2. Versatile: Wood glue can be used on various porous surfaces, making it a versatile option for different DIY or crafting projects.

  3. Compatibility: Wood glue is compatible with a wide range of paints, coatings, and finishes. Once the surface is sealed with wood glue, you can apply your desired finish such as acrylic paint, varnish, or stain without any issues.

  4. Easy Application: Applying wood glue as a sealant is a simple process that does not require any special skills or tools. A regular paintbrush or foam brush will suffice.

  5. Strong Adhesion: Wood glue has excellent adhesive properties, especially when used on wood-based surfaces. This ensures a secure bond between the surface and the wood glue sealant.

Conclusion

In conclusion, using wood glue as a sealant can be an effective and cost-efficient solution for porous surfaces like MDF or styrofoam. By diluting the wood glue with water and applying it as a sealant, you can achieve a smooth and paintable surface. This technique provides a great way to overcome the challenges of finishing porous materials and opens up various possibilities for DIY projects, crafts, or repairs. Give it a try and see the difference wood glue can make in your next project. Don’t forget to subscribe to Mike Thompson’s channel for more useful tips and tricks.