EXTENDING THE LIFE OF GLUE, EPOXY, AND SUPERGLUE
Learn how long common woodworking glues last and how to store them for maximum shelf life. Get tips for PVA, polyurethane, epoxy, CA glue, hide glue, and spray adhesives to ensure strong, reliable joints every time.
Previously I have released a video and article covering the pros and cons of different types of wood glues and other common workshop adhesives. There’s a lot people don’t know about these glues, and the information in that article could make a big difference on your next project. You probably don’t know what you don’t know.
After the video was originally released, a lot of folks asked about another important and closely related topic: How long can you keep glue before it becomes too old to use?
This matters more than you might think. Adhesives have shelf lives, and when they expire, their bonding strength can be compromised. Sure, you might save a few bucks by holding onto that old bottle—but if a joint fails later, it could cost you far more in time, effort, and materials.
How to Tell If Your Glue Is Still Good
That depends on the type of adhesive and the manufacturer. Some even contradict themselves across different documents, which adds to the confusion.
In this article, I’ll walk you through the most common woodworking adhesives, how long they typically last, how to recognize when they’re going bad, and what you can do to maximize their usable lifespan.
PVA (Yellow or White Wood Glue)
Most bottles claim a 1 or 2 year shelf life. Why the difference? Because it’s not an exact science. A bottle made on January 1st isn’t going to magically stop working the next New Year’s Day.
Here’s what affects PVA glue longevity:
Storage conditions play a big role.
The shelf life generally starts when you open the bottle, not when it’s manufactured.
Extreme temperatures—hot or cold—can shorten its life. I recommend storing it indoors, not in an unheated shop.
A cool basement is ideal because it won’t freeze. While some manufacturers say PVA glue can survive a couple of freeze-thaw cycles, I personally don’t trust it after it's been frozen.
Also, UV light can break down the glue. Keeping it in a cabinet helps, especially for long-term storage. I’m not too concerned about regular shop lights, but I definitely wouldn’t leave it on a windowsill.
And of course, keep the cap sealed and the tip clean to maintain moisture levels.
My personal rule? Three years max. After that, I toss it—because I probably don’t remember exactly how it was stored. And really, most of us will go through a 16 oz. bottle in less than three years.
But those big bulk jugs you bought on sale? That’s where it gets risky. I like to write the purchase date on the container with a Sharpie. After three years, if there’s any doubt, I throw it out.
Signs Your PVA Glue Is Going Bad
It begins to separate (you can try remixing it, but thoroughly).
It’s significantly thickened—you can add up to 5% water, but don’t overdo it.
It has changed color, become stringy, or turned pasty—toss it immediately.
Polyurethane Glue (e.g., Gorilla Glue)
Unopened, it usually lasts about one year. But once opened, it starts reacting with moisture in the air and can harden quickly.
Tips to extend its life:
Buy only what you need for the current project.
After use, squeeze out excess air, then store in a ziplock bag or glass jar.
Add a few silica gel packets or a handful of rice to absorb moisture.
Keep it in a cool, dry place.
Two-Part Epoxy Adhesives
Unopened, they can last many years. After opening, you usually get 2–3 years of use if stored properly.
Watch for:
Slower cure times (first sign of aging).
Freezing won’t ruin epoxy, but extreme cold can shorten lifespan.
Note: This refers to epoxy adhesives. Epoxy resins (used for casting) may show different aging signs, like yellowing or crystallization—different topic entirely.
Cyanoacrylate (CA) Glue / Super Glue
CA glue has a 1-year lifespan even when sealed. So always check the date before buying.
Buying those big multi-packs of tiny tubes may not save you money if they age out. And unfortunately, you can’t always see if the liquid has started crystallizing. If it’s over a year old, test it before using it on something important.
Storage tip:
I keep mine in the freezer—not because it freezes (it doesn’t), but because the freezer is a low-humidity environment. While condensation forms on the outside of the bottle, I haven’t found it to affect the glue inside. My bottles never harden prematurely this way.
Alternatively, store opened bottles in a sealed jar or bag with silica packets.
CA Activator Sprays also have a limited shelf life. They’ll last a couple of years, but you’ll notice they become less effective as they age.
Liquid Hide Glue
Shelf life is 12–18 months, and it’s just not worth trying to stretch it.
You can’t always tell if it’s bad just by looking at it, and its ability to cure completely can diminish with age. Only buy it when you need it, and only as much as you’ll use in about a year.
Spray Adhesives
Spray adhesives come in a variety of formulations, so check the can. Most are good for just over a year after manufacture.
Store them in moderate temperatures—heat and cold degrade them faster.
If it seems thicker or sprays unevenly, test first before using it on an important project.
Final Thoughts
Those are the adhesives I use most in my shop. I hope this article helps you get the longest shelf life and the best joints possible from your adhesive of choice.
Happy woodworking!
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