Tackling the Elements: Exterior Wood Glue and Barking Beavers Builds

Building outdoor planters and other exterior projects comes with its own set of challenges. One question we frequently hear is about the durability of wood glue in outdoor applications. Understandably, there's concern about how well adhesive will hold up against the elements. After all, sun, rain, and fluctuating temperatures can be tough on any material.
We get it. You're spending money and effort buying our Barking Beavers builds, and you want them to last. That's why we decided to put one of our most used exterior wood glues to the test.  We wanted to see firsthand how it would perform under real-world conditions, specifically the kind of extreme weather our exterior products experience.

The Test:

We constructed a simple box, using standard woodworking techniques and Titebond III to assemble the joints. Then, we subjected this box to the full force of Mother Nature. And wow, did she deliver! As many of you know, Southern California has recently been hit with a significant amount of rain. In fact I spent most of last week siphoning, shoveling and sweeping water away from our house. Our test box sat outside, exposed to downpours, wind, and the usual temperature swings we see in our climate. It wasn't babied; it was left completely exposed and saturated for a week straight. Then Mother Nature gladly repeated the process.

The Results:

We're happy to report that the Titebond III exterior wood glue held up remarkably well. Despite the constant moisture and fluctuating temperatures, the joints remained strong and secure. There was no sign of separation or weakening. The box endured the rain, dried out, and endured more rain, and the glue continued to perform.

Why Titebond III (and Exterior Grade Glue in General) Works:

Even though this blog seems to be sponsored by Titebond, it is not. It just happens to be one of the most reliable wood adhesives and what most woodworkers use, including us. Exterior wood glues like Titebond III are formulated specifically for outdoor use. They are designed to withstand moisture, temperature changes, and even UV exposure.  These glues create a strong, waterproof bond that's far superior to standard wood glues when it comes to outdoor projects. Titebond III, in particular, is a one-part, waterproof wood adhesive that passes ANSI Type I and II standards for water resistance. This means it's designed to handle repeated wet and dry cycles.

Plus it is widely understood by experienced woodworkers, but maybe not the general public, that most wood glues create a bond usually stronger than the wood itself. This is true for interior and exterior adhesives.

What This Means for Your Barking Beaver Projects:

This test gives us confidence, and hopefully you as well, that using a quality exterior wood glue is a reliable method for assembling your Barking Beavers cedar planters and other outdoor builds. It's a crucial component in creating projects that are not only beautiful but also durable and long-lasting.

If you decide to build something yourself, here's some tips for using exterior wood glue:

• Proper Surface Preparation: Ensure the surfaces you're gluing are clean, dry, and free of any debris.
• Even Application: Apply the glue evenly to both surfaces.
• Proper Clamping: Clamp the pieces together firmly and allow the glue to cure for the recommended time.  This is crucial for a strong bond.
• Follow Manufacturer's Instructions: Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific application and curing times.

So, go ahead and enjoy those stunning outdoor planters, benches, or whatever you buy from Barking Beavers, including custom orders! With the right materials and techniques, including quality craftsmanship, quality material and exterior wood glue, your creations will stand the test of time (and the elements!).  We're here to provide you with wood decor and furniture you can be proud of!

Want to buy this test piece? Click here to purchase this small cedar box.