Knowing how to glue Styrofoam and polystyrene can come in handy for both crafts and DIY projects such as home insulation. Read on to discover the best way to glue Styrofoam.
You need to consider your project so you can choose an appropriate adhesive.
If you’re doing crafts or small-scale projects with Styrofoam/polystyrene, there are a variety of glues you can use. They include:
- Styrofoam glue
- super glue
- craft glue
- spray adhesive
One of the best ways to glue Styrofoam together or to other materials is with a spray adhesive like Loctite Spray Adhesive Multi Purpose. It’s an easy-to-use, versatile adhesive that sets in just 10 minutes and dries transparent.
If you’re bonding large surfaces – for example, polystyrene foam boards for insulation – use a specialized adhesive like Loctite PL 300 Foamboard Adhesive. This easy-to-use adhesive can be applied to foam boards with a caulking gun. It can be used with unfaced EPS (expanded polystyrene foam) and XPS (extruded polystyrene foam) and bonds to a variety of substrate materials.
Always read the product information on compatibility with materials before making a purchase. Also do a test on some disposable material before starting your project to ensure the glue is compatible with Styrofoam. Super glue works well for a quick fix, for example, but it may melt Styrofoam slightly.
Before gluing Styrofoam, gather everything you need:
- spray adhesive
- scrap paper
- safety glasses
- dry cloth
Here’s how to glue Styrofoam together:
- Get ready. Make sure the room is well-ventilated, and wear safety glasses. Cover the work surface with scrap paper.
- Clean the Styrofoam surfaces. Use a dry cloth to ensure all surfaces are completely clean. This will help to improve adhesion.
- Apply the spray adhesive. Shake the can, then hold it vertically about 10 inches away from the Styrofoam. Move the can and spray evenly over both surfaces, creating a medium coat of adhesive.
- Press the surfaces together. To create a weak/temporary bond, press the surfaces together immediately. For a stronger bond, after applying the adhesive, leave the surfaces to dry for up to 10 minutes (consult the product’s instructions for more detailed information). Then press the surfaces together. You can bond porous surfaces while they are still wet.
- Leave to dry and cure. Consult your product’s instructions for information on drying and curing time. You can use the Styrofoam as soon as the glue has dried but wait until it’s cured for best results.
Polystyrene foam boards are relatively easy to install at home as a DIY project. They’re lightweight, and you don’t require specialist tools or knowledge. Whether your foam boards are polystyrene or Styrofoam, the installation process is the same.
Before you get started, gather everything you need:
- styrofoam/polystyrene foam boards
- premium adhesive like Loctite PL 300 Foamboard Adhesive
- caulking gun
- mechanical fasteners
- sandpaper
- cloths
- vacuum
- tape measure
- utility knife
- gloves
Here’s how to glue polystyrene foam together:
- Prepare the walls. Use a vacuum and damp cloths (and sandpaper, if necessary) to ensure the substrate is completely smooth, clean, and dry.
- Measure and cut the boards. Use the tape measure and utility knife to cut the boards to the desired size and shape. Pre-fit the boards and place them to your liking before gluing.
- Prepare the adhesive. Put the adhesive into the caulking gun. Cut off the tip of the nozzle at a 45-degree angle and puncture the cartridge.
- Apply the adhesive. Use the caulking gun to apply the adhesive to the foam board surface, starting about 1 inch from the edge of the board. Draw a series of beads about 10 inches apart in a vertical line, avoiding the board perimeters.
- Press the board into place. Immediately place the glued side of the board against the substrate. Press gently but firmly for about a minute.
- Clean up excess adhesive. Wet adhesive can be removed with a damp cloth. If the adhesive has dried, use a sharp blade to cut it away.
- Use mechanical fasteners on all boards. Doing so will improve adhesion even further.
- Repeat the steps 4-7 with the other foam boards.
- Leave the boards to dry and cure. Consult your product’s instructions for information about drying and curing times. Note that your adhesive may need longer depending on the temperature and humidity.
- Wash your hands after use.
Once you’ve installed the foam boards, you can use the same Loctite adhesive to install a layer of drywall on top for added protection.