Wood glue (PVA based)

PVA, PVAc glue (Polyvinyl acetate), or white glue, is the most used glue in wood construction nowadays. It is a product of the petrochemical industry. It can be seen as microscopic plastic particles diluted in water. Even though it is a synthetic thermoplastic, under the right conditions, it biodegrades. Overall it is considered as a safe product to use. Also used for bookbinding and paper crafting, or as a protective coating for cheese. Yummy.

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The life cycle	Pro	Con


	Quick PVA glue has a fast drying time. Non toxic Safe in production in workshop. Water based. Can have VOC emissons but you can find low VOC wood glue. Low cost Inexpensive and long shelf life Easy reuse Wood glue has a long shelf life, and if it dries it can be refreshed by mixing in a bit of water.		Tips Wood glue particles washed with water down the drain will not degrade naturally. They can be biologically degraded in certain conditions, but what happens to the one you wash down the drain depends on what type of treatment facility cleans the water from your drain. Do not pour wood glue down the drain, and try to reduce washing it from tools down the sink. In some cases you can do that by using spray instead of rollers and brushes.
		Bulky Glued wooden constructions are non disassemblable so it takes more space and thus energy in transportation. Show Alternatives » Alternatives connections that are space saving in transport Bolt and nut Dowels, biscuits and lamellos Natural fibre straps Plastic straps Screws – Brass Screws – Galvanized steel Screws – Stainless steel
	Long lifespan PVA glue makes strong, durable connections (stronger than the wood itself). Non toxic Very low offgassing when glue is hardened out. PVA glues are formaldehyde free and most of them have low VOC levels (1).

		Difficult reuse PVA glue makes a permanent connection, making the wood parts difficult to reuse. Show Alternatives » Alternatives connections that are easy to reuse Animal glue Bolt and nut Natural fibre straps Plastic straps Screws – Brass Screws – Galvanized steel Screws – Stainless steel Tie-wraps