How to Glue Rubber

To glue rubber the first thing you'll need is rubber cement. Because you are working with a flexible material, you'll want to avoid glues that are not flexible. The process may be difficult if you do not have the correct materials, so be sure to pick up the right glue. Rubber cement is available in most hardware stores and is available from many on-line retailers.

To start, put the rubber under the same conditions it will be under once glued. This may mean stretching the rubber and putting it under the appropriate amount of stress. Then wet the area being glued and clean it with soap. Rinse off the soap and make sure the rubber is thoroughly dried before proceeding.

Using sandpaper, sand the surface so that the rubber is rough enough for the glue to adhere. Avoid making dimples or indentations in the rubber, however. Once this is done, apply a thin layer of rubber cement to the area being glued. Avoid using too much glue and press both surfaces, removing any excess. Air bubbles may be forced out by applying pressure on one edge of the rubber. Refer to the instructions on the cement tube for appropriate drying times.