Many household projects can involve adhering rubber to metal. Be it adding rubber tips to the legs of a metal table or fixing up the ends of pipes, all these tasks require that the bonds are safe and secure. The most important step to cementing metal to rubber is to use the right type of contact adhesive, or glue to seal the two together. This glue will vary depending on which metal surface is used and can be purchased at any local hardware store. With the right preparation, you can proceed with your home improvement with confidence, knowing that your bonds will last.
Instructions
1. Clean the surface of the metal using a soft cloth and a bleach solution or household cleaner. If you are using steel, take extra care to remove all traces of dirt, grease and oil.
2. Scratch the surface of the metal using some fine metal sandpaper. This creates grooves on the surface which will help rubber adhere more tightly.
3. Apply a thin layer of glue onto the appropriate parts of the rubber and metal surfaces.
4. Carefully press the surfaces together at the glued spots. Let the glue dry for the amount of time designated on the glue label. Use clamps to hold the pieces together for longer periods of time.
5. Remove the clamps once the glue is settled. Allow at least 24 hours for the glue to finish drying.