Construction adhesive for 'fine' furniture?

[Mike Hartigan]

I'm building a couple of cabinets. Nothing special, just nice boxes using oak ply and trimming it with 1x2, 1x3, 1x4, and some 1/4 x 2 lattice. Given my aversion to nail holes, I decided to use glue for the trim pieces rather than nails. I'm screwing them from behind where I can, but for the pieces where that's not practical - particularly the lattice - I'm simply clamping them. I used Titebond wood glue for the lattice, but I chose to use a urethane construction adhesive for the beefier pieces. Given that the work is almost done (fine time to ask for advice), was this a bad idea? Can I expect these to last a lifetime, or will I be adding nails a few years down the road? Will the solvents in the urethane product cause any finishing issues?

-Mike

[RayV]

Sure it is fine just don't use the tube marked 'construction' use the one that says 'projects'.

[ls1mike]

Why? (I'm not arguing - I'm asking) Intuitively, a tube marked 'construction' sounds like it would be superior to one marked 'projects'. Strictly in the context of the question, why would one be better suited than the other for the stated application?

[Oughtsix]

I have found construction adhesive too thick to penetrate wood very deep and it usually sticks to my fingers longer than it sticks to wood. I have had much better luck with the $5 / tube adhesive than the $1.50 / tube stuff (the $5 / tube stuff will generally stick to my hands for several weeks;-).

[nailshooter41]

Personally, I think you will be fine. Quality adhesives are so good these days I don't always use a mechanical fastener if I have the time to glue and clamp.

By using adhesive only, you don't risk the chance of splits from fasteners, and errant nail sticking out of your project, you don't have nails to fill, etc., so you can cut down the time spent overall when assembing and finishing.

If you are thinking you need a mechanical fastener, try doweling or using biscuits (don't make me haul out the furniture manufacturer's study that showed the added strength to the joints...) or maybe a pocket screw in an inconspicuous place.

Try not to overglue as the residue or cleaned areas can affect finishing. Use the correct solvent to clean up while the glue is wet. I used to wait until the glue was dry and clean up with a sharp chisel. However, after slicing through too many micro-veneered panels of birch, I clean TB with a damp sponge.

As always, just my 0.02.

Robert