Hi everyone,
I have just brought in some 8/4 Calico Hickory for a large 4' x 8' counter top on an island. For almost everything we use Dural white glue and for some exotics we use Tightbond 3 or Gorilla glue. What should I use for Hickory? I have heard it can be tough to glue and just don't want any trouble with this project!! thank you!
From contributor Ge
What makes hickory tough to glue is its density. The high density woods are very unforgiving. They require perfectly flat surfaces that are freshly prepared. Implied in this requirement is that the moisture must be matched to the air's EMC and to the customer's EMC so that any shrinkage or swelling with annual moisture changes is minimal and that a big change does not occur when the wood is brought into your shop or between your shop and the customer's home.
Regarding the specific adhesive, avoid those that cannot withstand wetting, as we can expect that the top may have some wetting from a wet cloth, dripping glasses, spilled liquids, etc. My personal choice would be TB II, but there are many that will perform well if the wood is properly prepared.
From contributor Jo
Hey Gene, don't want to hijack this thread, but why do you keep recommending TB II over TB III ?
I'd expect the III to be better, no?
From contributor Ge
TB III has excellent exterior use properties. This is interior with only occasional wetting, so TB II is adequate. There are a lot of postings here about how well TB II works. Certainly other adhesives would also work. When possible, I prefer an adhesive that does not emit fumes.
From contributor Jo
Thnks Gene. I do mostly outdoor work so I'll stick with TB III !
From contributor ho
Thank you guys for your responses. i actually had to start gluing up before I received any responses and i chose tightbond 3. looks like i chose well! I also have assumed that it was better than 2 and have good success with it on exotics. i had a difficult time getting perfect joints over 8' lengths but did the best i could and left the panels clamped over night. i planed them and reglued the next day and again left it overnight. after building and sanding i left it another night and then we lacquered it. it's still in the shop as the customer is having a hard time with her home builder and doesnt have possesion of the home yet. so far it has moved and looks great. when i do move it i will wrap in blankets and let it warm up slowly in her home before removing. (we are in Alberta , Canada and its quite cold). this should help with the humidity changes?
