Let's talk about marine adhesives and glues.

First and foremost I'm not an expert. Now, on to the discussion. In boating you have adhesives and you have sealants. The real question is...What's the difference?

From the dictionary

Sealant- any of various liquids, paints, chemicals, or soft substances that may be applied to a surface or circulated through a system of pipes or the like, drying to form a hard, watertight coating.

 

Adhesive-

 

Adjective-

Physics . of or pertaining to the molecular force that exists in the area of contact between unlike bodies and that acts to unite them.

 

–noun - a substance that causes something to adhere.

 

 

So when building a boat there need to be a clear understanding of what needs to be sealed and what needs to be adhered.

 

For example- Decking should be applied with a marine sealant because it is a non-permanent bond. You can rib it up and out. Additionally nearly everything after the main structure is completed should use a marine sealant.

 

Lets move on to adhesives. Adhesives provide a permanent bond. The sheer clamp, frames, and anything structural that you never ever want to come apart should  use an adhesive.

 

This is simple terms, and I still don't quite know exactly what needs what, but I'll figure it out along the way. If in doubt, ask a professional. They like giving advice, but always get a second opinion as well. With that it's time for breakfast. I'm out. Have a good day, and get building away!