What glue?

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Paul N

Paul N

SPFG, Supreme Picture Framing God
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Jun 10, 2005
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CT, not far from the LI Sound
Customer brought a frames that fell and the corners separated a bit.

Since it's a Polystyrene frame, I was wondering what glue do you guys and gals use with such frames (we sell only wood in my shop)?

Thanks and make it a good Saturday!
 
Superglue Gel
Don't get any on the surface as it will disolve the finish (lovely stuff, eh?)
 
Cyanoacrylate, aka Super Glue.

It probably would be best if you can refit the corners and use a strap clamp to hold it all together. When you put in the adhesive, cover as much surface area as you can, but be careful not to get it on the finish. I prefer the gel instead of the watery version.

If it is a big or flimsy frame, I suggest adding triangular gussets at the corners, which can be made out of 1/16" or 1/8" PVC sheeting, or even 4-ply matboard. Glue them in place with polyurethane glue, aka Gorilla Glue. Be careful with that stuff, as it expands up to 5 times its original volume, and tends to foam out of the intended joints. Wipe it off before it dries, or chip it off later. Again, don't get the glue on the finish.
 
I’ve done several of these.

If you take it apart the polystyrene will crumble away and you will need to cut everything down and start over.

If you try and squeeze the glue into the open area you will ruin the finish and end up cutting everything down and starting over.

The only fix I will consider is to cut a sheet of 1/8 inch hardboard and screw/glue it across the back of the frame. It’s strong and inexpensive but the corners will stay a bit open.

Doug
 
Paul N said:
PS: What's for dinner??
Click to expand...

National Lung Assn. Gala...Cinco de Mayo 2 days early...prolly a Fla-Mex buffett....ick.
Last night was shrimp Putanesca...mmmmmmm
 
I have successfully tightened up a couple of synthetic frames using selleys liquid nails. Being a water-based glue it doesn't harm the finished surface but it needs clamping overnight to get a good grip.
 
What are you charging for this repair? Sometimes these things turn out to be expensive for everyone but the customer. What if you damage the finish, are you going to have to replace the customers frame? Is this possibly another example of "no good deed will go unpunished"?

I do not repair plastic frames for the above reasons. we recommend a replacement wood frame.

John
 
I'm with Mr. Baker on this one. I've attempted repairs on polystyrene frames and it never fails to be a royal PIA. I've tried all the glues suggested and reinforcing the corners with corner brackets and clamping and even laying hands on the frame and mumbling prayers amid swear words. More often than not, the frame crumbles apart in the corners.
 
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