Best Contact Cements of 2026

Brian Howie Avatar
Brian Howie
Last Updated: Jan 20, 2026

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Contact cements are a type of adhesive that are widely used in construction, woodworking, and automotive industries. These versatile adhesives are known for their strong bonding capabilities, making them ideal for applications that require a permanent and durable bond. Contact cements are typically applied to both surfaces that need to be bonded, allowed to dry, and then pressed together to form a strong bond. They are available in both solvent-based and water-based formulations, making them suitable for a wide range of materials. Contact cements are a popular choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike due to their reliability and ease of use.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

DAP Weldwood Contact Cement Cover #TOP 1
DAP Weldwood Contact Cement
ftb score rating icon 9.8
DAP Weldwood Original Contact Cement 00107, 3 oz, 2-Pack Cover #TOP 2
DAP Weldwood Original Contact Cement 00107, 3 oz, 2-Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.7
DAP 00272 Original Contact Cement Cover #TOP 3
DAP 00272 Original Contact Cement
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Contact Cements

#TOP 1

DAP Weldwood Contact Cement

DAP
00107
3 oz
DAP Weldwood Contact Cement Cover
DAP® Weldwood® Contact Cement - Bottle

DAP Contact Cement is a versatile adhesive that instantly bonds on contact, suitable for various materials. It creates a strong, water-resistant bond without the need for clamps or long wait times. The included applicator in the 1 oz bottle adds convenience. This adhesive is perfect for quick fixes around the home, office, and workshop, making it a handy solution for a wide range of projects.

What We Like
Strong, durable bond
Easy to spread
Quick tack and drying time
Works on rubber and foam
Versatile for DIY projects
What We Don't Like
Strong odor
Brush too wide for small pieces
#TOP 2

DAP Weldwood Original Contact Cement 00107, 3 oz, 2-Pack

DAP
00107
3 oz - Pack of 2
DAP Weldwood Original Contact Cement 00107, 3 oz, 2-Pack Cover
DAP 00107 Weldwood Original Contact Cement,3 oz- Pack of 2

The DAP Contact Cement 2-Pack offers you two 3-ounce containers of reliable contact cement, perfect for your bonding needs. Having a pair of containers ensures you have enough adhesive for multiple projects or backups, saving you trips to the store. Planning ahead is key with this product—thinking through your project steps helps you apply the cement smoothly and get better results. Also, keeping permits in mind ensures your project meets local regulations, avoiding any legal issues. Lastly, having a realistic budget helps you manage your expenses wisely, making this product a practical choice for home or professional use.

What We Like
Strong, reliable bond
Works on flexible materials
Easy application
Fast tack time
Versatile for DIY projects
What We Don't Like
Strong odor
Brush could be smaller
#TOP 3

DAP 00272 Original Contact Cement

DAP
7079800272
32 oz
DAP 00272 Original Contact Cement Cover
DAP 272 Dap 00 Weldwood The Original Contact Cement, Tan

DAP 00272 Original Contact Cement is a heat-treated solvent-based formula that provides a quick grab with super strength. This cement has a flash point of 22°F and can withstand 5 freeze-thaw cycles. It requires 30-45 minutes of drying time for bonding at 75°F and 50% relative humidity. Please note that this item is not available for sale in Catalina Island.

What We Like
Strong bonding performance
Quick drying time
Easy to apply
Great value for price
Widely recommended
What We Don't Like
Shipping delays for some orders
Not suitable for all surfaces
#TOP 4

Permatex 25905 Contact Cement

25905
Factory
1.5 Ounce
Permatex 25905 Contact Cement Cover
Permatex 25905 Contact Cement, 1.5 oz., 1.5 Ounce

This specialty adhesive creates a tough, permanent bond on contact and is heat and water-resistant. It can instantly bond metal, wood, ceramic, leather, rubber, and many other surfaces without the need for clamping. This contact cement is ideal for applications such as weather stripping, rubber mats, and carpeting.

What We Like
Strong long-lasting bond
Works on many materials
Flexible and durable hold
Easy to use for repairs
Quick drying time
What We Don't Like
Watery consistency
Brownish color glue
#TOP 5

DAP Weldwood Contact Cement

DAP
070798002739
1 Gallon
DAP Weldwood Contact Cement Cover
DAP 00273 1 Gallon Weldwood Original Contact Cement, Tan

DAP Contact Cement is a premium quality, neoprene rubber adhesive that creates permanent bonds on various surfaces. It is ideal for bonding high-pressure laminates, wood and plastic veneers, paneling, leather, fabrics, rubber, paper, cardboard, and other materials to wood, particle board, plywood, metal, concrete, and similar surfaces. This professional-grade adhesive offers instant adhesion, eliminating the need for clamps or temporary fasteners. With DAP Contact Cement, you can easily and quickly complete your bonding projects with a reliable and long-lasting solution.

What We Like
Strong adhesive bond
Easy to use
Quick drying time
Good value for price
Great for automotive projects
What We Don't Like
Shipping delays
Strong fumes
#TOP 6

DAP 271 Weldwood Contact Cement

DAP
DAP 271 Weldwood Contact Cement Cover
DAP 271 Weldwood Original Contact Cement, Tan

The DAP Weldwood Contact Cement is a strong adhesive perfect for a variety of projects where you need a reliable bond. It grabs materials quickly, so you can start working without waiting long. The glue dries fast, usually within 15 to 20 minutes, saving you time on your tasks. Once dry, it stands up well to heat and moisture, making it a great choice for both indoor and outdoor projects where durability matters. This product helps you get your work done efficiently while ensuring a long-lasting hold.

What We Like
Strong bonding on flexing surfaces
Effective for dissimilar materials
Highly water resistant
Low odor formula
Reliable for long-term use
What We Don't Like
May be less strong than Barge
Inconsistent product quality
#TOP 7

DAP Weldwood Contact Cement Spray

DAP
7079800120
Clear
14 oz
DAP Weldwood Contact Cement Spray Cover
DAP Weldwood Original Spray Adhesive Contact Cement, Clear, 14 oz (7079800120)

DAP Weldwood Contact Cement Spray is a clear spray-on adhesive that offers exceptional bond strength, easy to control spray pattern, and dries clear, creating a durable and long-lasting bond. It belongs to the category of contact cements.

What We Like
Strong adhesion
Easy to use
Nozzle sprays consistently
Minimal odor
Easy cleanup
What We Don't Like
Nozzle may clog
Not suitable for all materials
#TOP 8

Gorilla Clear Grip Waterproof Contact Adhesive

8040001
Clear
1 - Pack
Gorilla Clear Grip Waterproof Contact Adhesive Cover
Gorilla Clear Grip Waterproof Contact Adhesive, 3 Ounce Tube, Clear, (Pack of 1)

The Gorilla Clear Grip Adhesive offers a crystal-clear finish that makes your repairs and craft projects look seamless and neat, perfect when you want your work to be invisible. Its fast grab formula means you won’t have to wait or use clamps, saving you time and effort by bonding materials quickly. This adhesive is fully waterproof, so it works great both indoors and outdoors, giving you flexibility in where you can use it. Plus, the no-run formula helps you apply it cleanly without any mess, making your project easier and more precise. This product is designed to make bonding simple and effective for you.

What We Like
Strong bonding power
Waterproof adhesive
Fast drying time
Reliable for repairs
Easy to apply
What We Don't Like
Packaging durability issues
Not for flexible plastic
#TOP 9

RH Adhesives S-18 All-Purpose Adhesive

S-18 All-Purpose Adhesive
Off-White
4 oz
RH Adhesives S-18 All-Purpose Adhesive Cover
S-18 All-Purpose Adhesive, 4 oz. can - Multi-Purpose, Rubber, Metal, Leather, Felt, Wood, Neoprene, Glass, Flexible, Waterproof, Long Lasting - RH Adhesives

The RH Adhesives S-18 is a versatile glue that works well on many surfaces, including rubber, metal, wood, and glass. This means you can use it for a wide range of projects without needing different adhesives. It’s also water resistant, making it ideal for outdoor or marine use where moisture is a concern. The adhesive forms strong, durable films that hold up over time and resist oils, so your repairs or creations stay solid. Plus, it bonds rubber to metal effectively, which is perfect if you’re fixing items like neoprene or SBR rubber parts. This makes the RH Adhesives S-18 a reliable choice for both home and professional use.

What We Like
Strong bonding power
Works on multiple materials
Quick and easy application
Dries clear, no residue
Flexible and durable finish
What We Don't Like
Performance drops in heat/rain
Less effective on rubber to steel
#TOP 10

DAP Weldwood Rubber Contact Cement

DAP
25332
DAP Weldwood Rubber Contact Cement Cover
DAP Weldwood High Strength Rubber Contact Cement 1 pt.

DAP Weldwood Rubber Contact Cement, also known as DAP Contact Cement, is a high-strength adhesive that is water resistant and neoprene based. It is a reliable choice for bonding various materials together. With its "WELDWOOD" CONTACT CEMENT formula, this product meets all CPSC requirements. The water resistance feature ensures that your projects are protected from moisture and humidity, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. The neoprene base provides a strong bond, ensuring that your materials stay securely in place. With DAP Weldwood Rubber Contact Cement, you can trust that your projects will be held together with a durable and long-lasting bond.

What We Like
Strong adhesive bond
Works on multiple materials
Quick setting time
Good thickness
What We Don't Like
High price
Not ideal for shoe soles
Buying Guide Image

Ready for the Course: How to Buy the Right Contact Cements

Introduction

Contact cement, also known as contact adhesive, is a strong adhesive used for bonding materials together. It is a popular choice for many projects, including laminating, flooring, and furniture making. However, with so many different types of contact cement on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is the best for your project. In this article, we will go over some key factors to consider when choosing a contact cement.

Types of Contact Cement

One of the first things to consider when choosing a contact cement is the type of adhesive you need. There are two main types of contact cement: neoprene and polychloroprene. Neoprene is a synthetic rubber that is highly resistant to water, oil, and UV light. It is a good choice for outdoor projects or for bonding materials that will be exposed to the elements. Polychloroprene, on the other hand, is a synthetic rubber that is more flexible and has better heat resistance. It is a good choice for bonding materials that will be subjected to high temperatures or a lot of movement.

Drying Time

Another important factor to consider when choosing a contact cement is the drying time. Some contact cements dry very quickly, while others take longer to set. If you are working on a large project or need to bond multiple pieces of material together, a slow-drying contact cement may be the best choice. This will give you plenty of time to position the materials correctly before the adhesive sets. On the other hand, if you are working on a small project or need to bond materials quickly, a fast-drying contact cement may be a better option.

Bond Strength

The bond strength of a contact cement is another important factor to consider. The bond strength refers to the amount of force required to separate two bonded materials. A strong bond is essential for ensuring that your project will hold up over time. When choosing a contact cement, look for one with a high bond strength rating. This will ensure that your project will be sturdy and durable.

VOC Content

Contact cements can contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are chemicals that can be harmful to the environment and to your health. VOCs can cause a variety of health problems, including eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, and dizziness. When choosing a contact cement, look for one with a low VOC content. This will help to protect the environment and your health.

Conclusion

Choosing the right contact cement for your project can be a daunting task. However, by considering factors such as the type of adhesive, drying time, bond strength, and VOC content, you can find the perfect contact cement for your needs. With the right adhesive, your project will be sturdy, durable, and safe for both you and the environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the two types of contact cement?

There are two types of contact cement: solvent-based and water-based (often referred to as "green" or "solvent-free"). These adhesives are versatile and can adhere to a wide range of surfaces, making them ideal for bonding different materials together.

2. How permanent is contact cement?

Contact cement forms a permanent bond when sufficient pressure is applied. It reaches its maximum holding strength in about 7 days. Once bonded, there is no need for clamping.

3. Are there different types of contact cement?

Yes, there are different types of contact cement available. The main types are water-based contact adhesive and solvent-based contact adhesive. Each type has its own unique characteristics and applications.

4. What will contact cement not stick to?

Water-based contact cement does not adhere well to metal or glass, while solvent-based contact cement does. Neither type sticks well to masonry surfaces.

5. What are the disadvantages of contact cement?

One disadvantage of contact cement is that once the surfaces are pressed together, they cannot be repositioned. This means that you need to ensure proper alignment before bonding. Careful planning and precision are required when using contact cement.

Editor's Notes

During our contact cement research, we found 24 contact cement products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 58,137 customer reviews through our big data system to write the contact cements list. We found that most customers choose contact cements with an average price of $14.15.

The contact cements are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of contact cements, including DAP, Permatex, GORILLA, RH Adhesives. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 300 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Brian Howie Avatar

Brian Howie is a content writer and senior industrial designer. After graduation from Westminster College, he has been engaged in product design and manufacturing for 18 years. Brian Howie has always found great pleasure in designing industrial products and sharing his ideas and experience online.

Contact Cements Comparison Table

#TOP1
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#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand DAP DAP DAP Permatex DAP DAP DAP GORILLA RH Adhesives DAP
Item Form Liquid Liquid Liquid Ounce Liquid Liquid Spray Liquid Liquid Liquid
Material Contact cement Neoprene Rubber Heat-Treated Plastic Paper,Rubber,Wood - Synthetic Rubber Metal,Paper,Wood Neoprene Adhesive polychlorprene
Specific Uses For Product specific_uses_for_product Woodworking, Repair, Flooring, Masonry, Countertop, Casting, Carpentry, Furniture, Glass Flooring, Furniture, Repair, Wall Repair, Wood, Woodworking Tile Repair, Woodworking, Repair, Flooring, Wood, Wall Repair, Leatherworking, Carpentry Repair, Woodworking - Decorative Laminates, Door Panels, Foam, Trim Work, Upholstery Work Fabric, Art, School, Poster, Craft, Tile Repair, Painting, Wall Art, Repair, Flooring, Masonry, Countertop, Casting, Woodworking, Shoe, Furniture, Wood, Sink, Landscaping, Wall Repair, Glass, Table Top Coating Manufacturing, Repairing, Bonding Porous and Non-Porous Materials, Glazing Drop-In Aluminum Windows -
Special Feature Dries Clear Instant Bonding, Water Resistant Gel formula, Water resistant Water Resistant Extra-strong bonding capabilities, Heat Resistant, Water Resistant, Fast Drying - Flexible, Heat Resistant, Quick Bond, Strong, Water Resistant Dries Clear Heat Resistant, Strong -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.7
Where to Buy