On-site storage of adhesives can be a tricky process. Mistakes often occur, leading to preventable issues such as adhesive failure, higher costs, and safety hazards. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top mistakes made when storing adhesives on-site, and provide some useful tips to avoid them. The goal is to help you store your adhesives safely and effectively, maximizing their longevity and performance.

One of the most common mistakes is storing adhesives at incorrect temperatures. Adhesives are highly sensitive to temperature changes, and storing them in too hot or too cold conditions can significantly impact their effectiveness. For instance, a construction site in the desert might store adhesives in a hot storage container, leading to premature curing. On the flip side, a cold storage area might slow down the cure rate or even freeze the adhesive, making it unusable.

Another prevalent mistake is exposing adhesives to moisture. Like with temperature, moisture can greatly affect the properties of adhesives. For instance, moisture-curing adhesives might get activated prematurely if exposed to high humidity. Additionally, moisture can lead to the deterioration of packaging, causing spills and cross-contamination.

Inadequate rotation of stock is a less obvious but equally harmful mistake. Adhesives, like many other materials, have a shelf life. Not rotating the stock may result in using older adhesives that have lost their effectiveness over time. This can lead to adhesive failure and the need for rework, increasing costs and project timelines.

Failing to check the storage guidelines provided by the manufacturer is another common mistake. Each adhesive has specific storage requirements regarding temperature, humidity, and light exposure. Ignoring these guidelines can lead to adhesives losing their bonding strength or curing prematurely.

Improperly sealed adhesive containers can lead to the adhesive drying out, becoming contaminated, or curing prematurely. This often happens when adhesive containers are hastily resealed in the hustle and bustle of a busy worksite. Taking the time to properly seal adhesive containers can save a lot of hassle in the long run.

Ignoring safety regulations when storing adhesives is a serious mistake with potentially hazardous consequences. Adhesives can be flammable, toxic, or corrosive, and must be handled and stored with care. Overlooking safety regulations not only puts workers at risk but can also result in hefty fines and legal trouble.

A mistake that often goes unnoticed is not training staff properly on adhesive storage. Staff members who handle adhesives should be adequately trained on storage guidelines, safety procedures, and proper usage. Lack of training can lead to mistakes in storage and handling, affecting the adhesive’s performance and potentially causing safety incidents.

Using damaged or contaminated containers for adhesive storage is a common mistake that can lead to adhesive failure. Damaged containers can expose the adhesive to air, moisture, or contaminants, affecting its properties. Always ensure that the containers used for adhesive storage are in good condition and clean.

Not planning for adhesive storage in the project planning phase is a mistake that can lead to many of the issues discussed above. Adhesive storage requires careful consideration of factors like temperature, humidity, light exposure, and safety regulations. Including adhesive storage in project planning can help avoid these common mistakes.

Storing adhesives on-site is a critical aspect of many projects, and avoiding these common mistakes can significantly enhance their effectiveness and longevity. Whether it’s paying closer attention to the temperature and moisture levels, properly sealing containers, or providing adequate training to staff, each step contributes to the successful use of adhesives. As we reflect on the top mistakes when storing adhesives on-site, it’s clear that with a bit of attention and planning, these errors are easy to avoid, leading to more successful, cost-effective, and safer projects.