If you think vinyl adhesives are only for floors, think again. You can also use them to repair flexible plastic materials, such as vinyl seats and outdoor gear. Read on to find out how to apply them!
Vinyl adhesive: A real all-rounder
Many people only think about vinyl floorings when they hear the term “vinyl adhesive.” However, flexible vinyl glues like Loctite Vinyl, Fabric & Plastic are formulated for repairing flexible products from cushions to tarps, considerably expanding the uses for vinyl adhesives.
Which vinyl adhesive is right for your project?
When selecting a vinyl adhesive, you have to take into account the flexibility of the materials you want to bond. Flexible materials call for an adhesive that produces a flexible seam. Similarly, if they stretch, so must the seam.
The number of vinyl floor adhesives available is continually growing due to the vast range of vinyl floor coverings. Their names are often self-explanatory— you obviously need vinyl tile adhesive for vinyl tiles. However, you have to keep your substrate in mind, as well. After all, an adhesive that bonds vinyl to wood may not bond it to concrete or even other pieces of vinyl.
Read the manufacturer’s instructions for any products you consider buying to make sure they are suited for your materials.
How to apply vinyl glue
Getting ready
Prepare your work area and surface. Make sure you have a clean area for your project. Surfaces must be clean, dry, and free of contaminants. Roughen smooth surfaces to improve adhesion, and pre-fit any parts you need to join.
Play it safe! Make sure to work in a well-ventilated area if you use vinyl glues indoors. Wear gloves and wash your hands after use to avoid skin irritation.
Do you want clean seams? Apply masking tape around the area you want to repair and carefully peel it off when finished.
Wet bonding
Application. Apply the vinyl adhesive evenly to both surfaces and press them together until they set.
Repositioning. You can move glued parts while the adhesive is still wet. Wipe away excess adhesive before it sets.
Small tears and rips
Application. Apply vinyl repair glue to the edges of damaged areas. Press the edges together and secure them in place with masking tape until the bond is solid.
Large tears and rips
Reinforce materials. Place a patch of suitable material, such as cloth or fiberglass, under the damaged area to reinforce it.
Application. Apply the vinyl glue to the edges of the damaged area. Use masking tape to secure the repair until the bond is solid.
Contact bonding
Application. Apply the vinyl adhesive evenly to both surfaces and let it dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you are working with porous surfaces, apply a second coat and allow it to dry.
Repositioning. Make sure all parts, such as floorboards, are in the proper position before the glue dries.
Curing and clean-up
Wait for the adhesive to cure completely before exposing it to water.
Clean up your work area. You can remove uncured adhesive using acetone or nail polish remover. Cut away cured adhesive using a sharp blade.