Glue Gun Accessories

About Glue Gun Accessories

Glue gun accessories are essential components that enhance the functionality, safety, and versatility of your hot melt glue gun. Whether you're a professional tradesperson working on site installations, a craftsperson creating bespoke pieces, or a DIY enthusiast tackling home repairs, having the right accessories ensures your glue gun performs at its best whilst protecting both you and your workspace. From replacement nozzles and stands to protective cases and thermal shields, these accessories extend the life of your equipment and improve the quality of your bonding work.

At TooledUp.com, our glue gun accessories category encompasses everything you need to complement your hot melt adhesive equipment. This includes various diameter glue sticks formulated for different materials and applications, precision nozzle tips for detailed work, heat-resistant stands that prevent surface damage, and storage solutions to keep your equipment organised between jobs. Many professional tradespeople keep a comprehensive selection of accessories in their van or workshop, allowing them to adapt quickly to different bonding challenges without delays.

Quality accessories from trusted brands like Bosch, Stanley, and DeWalt ensure compatibility with your existing equipment whilst meeting UK safety standards. The right accessories not only improve your efficiency but also reduce waste and prevent common issues such as glue drips, burns, and equipment damage that can occur when using inadequate or incorrect components.

Jargon Buster

Hot Melt Adhesive

A thermoplastic adhesive that melts when heated in a glue gun and solidifies upon cooling, creating a strong bond. Available in various formulations for different materials including wood, plastic, metal, and fabric.

Nozzle Diameter

The internal measurement of the glue gun's applicator tip, typically ranging from 7mm to 12mm for standard guns. The diameter must match your glue stick size for proper feeding and application.

Temperature Rating

Indicates the operating temperature of glue sticks and accessories, usually categorised as low-temp (around 130°C) or high-temp (around 195°C). Higher temperatures provide stronger bonds but require more heat-resistant accessories.

Open Time

The working window between applying hot adhesive and when it begins to set. Longer open times allow for repositioning but may slow down production work.

Heat Shield/Thermal Guard

A protective barrier that prevents accidental contact with the hot nozzle, essential for safety-conscious professionals and when working in confined spaces.

Trigger-Feed Mechanism

The system that advances glue sticks through the heating chamber. Replacement triggers and feed components help maintain consistent adhesive flow.

Who Uses Glue Gun Accessories?

• Electricians and Sparkies - securing cable runs, sealing junction boxes, and temporary mounting of components during installations
• Carpenters and Chippies - quick assembly work, temporary jig construction, and bonding decorative mouldings
• Shop Fitters and Signage Installers - fixing display materials, mounting lightweight components, and rapid prototyping
• Upholsterers - fabric bonding, trim attachment, and furniture repair work
• Event Riggers and Set Builders - temporary installations, prop construction, and cable management
• Flooring Specialists - securing underlay edges, repairing vinyl, and bonding thresholds
• Model Makers and Prototypers - precision assembly work requiring various nozzle sizes and specialist glue formulations
• Maintenance Engineers - emergency repairs, equipment labels, and temporary fixes across facilities
• Crafters and Hobbyists - creative projects, home decorating, and general DIY repairs

How to Choose the Right Glue Gun Accessories

Match Your Gun Specification: Always verify the nozzle diameter and power rating of your existing glue gun before purchasing accessories. Standard UK glue guns typically use 7mm or 11mm diameter sticks, whilst professional models may accommodate 12mm or larger. Check your manufacturer's specifications to ensure compatibility.

Consider Your Application: Different jobs require different glue stick formulations. General-purpose sticks suit most applications, whilst specialist options include low-temperature sticks for heat-sensitive materials, coloured sticks for decorative work, extra-strong formulations for demanding bonds, and flexible sticks for materials that expand and contract. Professional tradespeople often stock multiple types.

Safety Features: Look for accessories that enhance safety, particularly if you're working on site or in busy workshops. Heat-resistant stands prevent surface damage and reduce fire risk, whilst thermal guards protect against accidental burns. Silicone mats provide a safe working surface that won't be damaged by drips.

Storage and Organisation: Professional-grade storage solutions from brands like Stanley, DeWalt TSTAK, or Milwaukee PACKOUT help keep glue sticks organised by type and protect your gun during transport. Purpose-built cases with compartments prevent stick damage and keep nozzles clean.

Precision Requirements: For detailed work, invest in interchangeable precision nozzles with various tip shapes including fine-point, flat, and angled options. These allow you to control bead size and access confined areas that standard nozzles cannot reach.

Volume and Cost Efficiency: If you use glue guns regularly, buying glue sticks in bulk bags rather than small packs significantly reduces cost per stick. Professional tradespeople often purchase 5kg bags of their most-used formulations.

Popular Accessories

• Glue Sticks - various diameters (7mm, 11mm, 12mm), lengths (typically 100-300mm), and formulations for different materials
• Precision Nozzles - fine-tip, flat, angled, and extended-reach applicators for detailed work
• Heat-Resistant Stands - wire and silicone stands that protect work surfaces during operation
• Silicone Work Mats - non-stick surfaces that catch drips and protect benches from heat damage
• Replacement Nozzle Caps - prevent adhesive build-up and extend nozzle life
• Thermal Shields - protective guards that reduce burn risk during use
• Carry Cases and Storage Boxes - organised transport solutions compatible with tool storage systems
• Nozzle Cleaning Tools - specialist picks and brushes for maintaining clear adhesive flow
• Extension Cords - for mains-powered guns working at height or in areas with limited socket access

Safety Information

Hot melt glue guns operate at temperatures between 130°C and 195°C, presenting significant burn risks if used incorrectly. Always use heat-resistant stands when setting your gun down, and never leave a heated gun unattended. The HSE recommends wearing appropriate PPE including heat-resistant gloves when undertaking prolonged glue gun work.

Ensure adequate ventilation when using glue guns, particularly in confined spaces, as some adhesive formulations emit fumes when heated. Whilst most general-purpose glue sticks produce minimal fumes, specialist formulations may require additional precautions outlined in the manufacturer's safety data sheets.

When working with mains-powered glue guns on UK building sites, ensure your equipment complies with BS EN 60335 safety standards and use RCD-protected power supplies. Cordless models reduce trip hazards and eliminate electrical risks in wet conditions.

Store glue sticks in a cool, dry location away from direct heat sources. Damaged or contaminated sticks can cause feeding problems and may contain debris that could damage your gun's heating element or block the nozzle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any glue sticks with my glue gun?

No, you must match the glue stick diameter to your gun's nozzle size. Using incorrect diameter sticks will either fail to feed properly or damage the mechanism. Most UK glue guns use either 7mm or 11mm sticks, so check your manufacturer's specifications. Temperature rating also matters - don't use high-temp sticks in a low-temp gun or vice versa.

How long do glue sticks last in storage?

When stored correctly in cool, dry conditions away from direct sunlight, quality glue sticks typically remain usable for 12-24 months. However, they can degrade over time, becoming brittle or discoloured. Professional tradespeople should date their stock and rotate supplies to ensure optimal performance. Avoid storing sticks in hot vans during summer months.

Why does my glue gun drip when I'm not using it?

Dripping occurs because hot adhesive continues to flow from the heated nozzle even when you're not squeezing the trigger. This is normal behaviour. Using a proper heat-resistant stand positions the gun nozzle-down over a drip collection area. Some professional accessories include anti-drip nozzles with spring-loaded valves that reduce this issue significantly.

Can I change nozzles on my existing glue gun?

This depends on your gun model. Professional-grade glue guns often feature interchangeable nozzle systems allowing you to fit precision tips for detailed work. Budget models typically have fixed nozzles. Check your manufacturer's accessory range - brands like Bosch and DeWalt offer nozzle kits for their professional glue gun ranges.

What's the difference between low-temp and high-temp glue sticks?

Low-temperature sticks (around 130°C) are safer for heat-sensitive materials like foam, delicate fabrics, and thin plastics, reducing the risk of warping or melting. High-temperature sticks (around 195°C) create stronger bonds and work better on demanding materials like metal, thick plastics, and outdoor applications. Your glue gun must be rated for the temperature range you're using - check before purchasing sticks.