Gear of the Week | UHU the two-component adhesive

Depending on the base, a distinction is made between epoxy resin, acrylic and polyurethane adhesives. Epoxy resin is particularly tough, waterproof and ideal for metal, wood and plastics, making it perfect for ski repairs. Acrylic adhesives are faster but have a stronger odor. PU adhesives remain slightly flexible, which can be useful for joints subject to vibration. The areas of application range from model making and the automotive sector to aerospace and even ski repair.

I became acquainted with two-component adhesives early on - not when tinkering, however, but when trying to save my skis. Bad winters, little snow, but the urge for powder snow - a dangerous combination. Anyone who has ever succumbed to this temptation or simply had bad luck knows the result: core shots. If the base is not only scratched, but is actually worn through and even the wood core is visible or damaged, even P-Tex sticks won't help. The melted material lasts one day at best, even if you wax over it. After that, it crumbles because the snow is cold and the P-Tex contracts.

So: Get to the glue! Two-component adhesive is your best friend at times like this. Although the base no longer absorbs wax afterwards, the adhesive stays where it should - and more importantly, it keeps the core dry. Because as soon as water penetrates, the wood swells. This massively reduces the strength of the wood. In the worst case scenario, the binding screws tear in a "no-fall zone" and with them the binding comes out of the ski. A broken base is annoying, but a wet core means the end. The adhesive reliably protects against this.