Compare The Big Three

Titebond’s core range of aliphatic resin adhesives consists of three distinct products: Original, II Premium, and III Ultimate.

While all produce bonds stronger than the wood substrate, they differ significantly regarding water resistance, open time, and cured bondline properties. Generally, as the product number increases, moisture resistance improves.

Titebond Original Wood Glue (Red Label)

The Standard for Interior Joinery

Engineered exclusively for interior applications such as furniture, cabinetry, and instrument construction.

  • Key Properties: Features strong initial tack and a short open time for rapid assembly.

  • Cured State: Cures to a rigid bondline, providing excellent sandability and superior heat resistance compared to Titebond II and III.

Titebond II Premium Wood Glue (Blue Label)

Weatherproof for Exterior Applications

Designed for exterior projects requiring moderate water resistance. It meets the ANSI/HPVA Type II specification for "weatherproofing."

  • Key Properties: Suitable for exterior trim and outdoor furniture exposed to damp conditions, but not continuous submersion. It shares the short open time of Titebond Original.

  • Cured State: Cures to a slightly softer bondline than the Original formula.

Titebond III Ultimate Wood Glue (Green Label)

Waterproof with Extended Working Time

Offers the highest performance level, meeting the stringent ANSI/HPVA Type I specification for "waterproof" bonds.

  • Key Properties: Suitable for severe weather exposure or non-structural submersion. It features a significantly longer open time, essential for complex assemblies, and offers a lower minimum application temperature.

  • Cured State: Cures to a softer bondline, similar to Titebond II.


Quick Comparison Guide

Feature Titebond Original (Red) Titebond II Premium (Blue) Titebond III Ultimate (Green)
Primary Application Interior Joinery Exterior (Weatherproof) Exterior (Waterproof) & Complex Assembly
Water Resistance Specification None (Interior Only) ANSI Type II ANSI Type I
Open / Assembly Time Short (c. 5-10 mins) Short (c. 5-10 mins) Long (c. 15-20 mins)
Cured Bondline Rigid (Highly sandable) Softer Softer
Heat Resistance High Moderate Moderate
Min. Application Temp. c. 10°C c. 13°C c. 8°C