Developed by Leech Adhesives specifically to address bonding polystyrene foam, tub enclosures, and tub surround for home construction and remodeling. This commercial-grade, foam-safe formula provides high initial tensile strength and long-term elastic-like flexibility without damaging or melting delicate substrates.
LEECH F-13® Construction Adhesive
Premium Quality Construction Adhesive
When you want the best for each application "Stick with Leech"
Available in:
10 fl. oz. cartridge: F26-33-12
Applications & Uses:
Tub Surrounds & Bathroom Enclosures
This formula provides a powerful, non-slump hold on non-porous bathroom materials directly over backer boards.
- Eliminate Fasteners: It completely eliminates the need for mechanical fasteners, avoiding punctures that risk water penetration behind the wall.
- Multi-Material Bonding: Securely attaches Fiber-Reinforced Plastic (FRP), acrylic panels, PVC sheets, and fiberglass shower units.
Insulation & Foam Board Systems
Engineered specifically with a foam-safe chemistry that will not degrade, dissolve, or melt sensitive insulation materials.
- Preserve R-Value: Safely bonds expanded (EPS) and extruded (XPS) polystyrene without compromising structural integrity.
- Thermal Barriers: Perfect for installing rigid foam insulation panels across attics, basements, and exterior walls.
Paneling & Decorative Wall Systems
The high-tack formula delivers a flat, smooth, and wave-free finish on vertical surfaces.
- Decorative Accents: Ideal for securing decorative wainscoting, traditional wood paneling, beadboard, and modern composite wall coverings.
- Flawless Finish: Drastically minimizes reliance on finish nails, leaving panel surfaces pristine and uniform.
Drywall & Wood Sheeting
Formulated to bridge minor gaps between boards and framing while absorbing natural structural movement.
- Reduce Nail Pops: Minimizes the total number of screws or nails required during drywall installation, preventing future structural sagging or popping.
- Flexible Bond Line: Stays ductile to absorb building shifting, seasonal expansion, and contraction in plywood sheeting and interior framing.
Material Compatibility Recommended For:
Polystyrene foam (XPS/EPS), acrylic, PVC, fiberglass, FRP, gypsum drywall, plywood, and decorative wood composites.
Product Characteristics:
From delicate insulation boards to heavy vertical panels, this professional-grade formula delivers an instant, ultra-flexible grip that secures your materials without compromising their structural integrity.
- Foam-Safe Chemistry: Will not burn through or dissolve delicate polystyrene foam insulation.
- Non-Slump Formula: Ideal for vertical wall installations like shower surrounds and heavy paneling.
- Stays ductile & flexible with age to accommodate building movement and prevent bond failure.
- Quick bond hold strength with excellent wet-grab tack.
- Passes specs ASTMC-557, ASTM-572-3.
- Environmental Tolerance: Water resistant and highly stable during temperature fluctuations.
Technical Specifications & Compliance
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Code | F-13-36 |
| Container Size | 10 fl. oz. Cartridge |
| Coverage Rate | Approx. 30 linear feet using a 1/4-inch bead |
| Odor Level | Low interior odor |
| Open Time / Tack Window | 15 to 20 minutes |
| Full Cure Time | 24 to 48 hours (depending on temperature & humidity) |
| Regulatory Compliance | Passes ASTM C-557, ASTM-572-3 |
| Moisture Resistance | Water-resistant |
Step-by-Step Application Guide: How to Apply This Construction Adhesive
- Surface Preparation: Ensure all bonding surfaces are structurally sound, clean, completely dry, and free of peeling paint, dust, or old caulk lines.
- Venting the Cartridge: Cut the plastic nozzle at a 45-degree angle to match your desired bead size (a 1/4-inch bead is recommended for most paneling and tub surrounds). Puncture the inner foil seal.
- Adhesive Application: Apply a continuous zigzag or “S” bead of the adhesive directly to the back of the panel or foam sheet, keeping lines spaced roughly 8 to 10 inches apart. Stay 1 inch away from the outer edges.
- Pressing & Venting: Press the panel firmly against the wall substrate to transfer the adhesive, then pull the panel back for 2 to 3 minutes to let the solvent vent. Press the panel firmly back into place.
- Curing Support: Mechanical bracing, tape, or support nails should be used to hold the panels securely for the first 24 hours until the adhesive reaches structural cure strength.
F-13® Frequently Asked Questions
Is this F-13 waterproof or moisture resistant?
This formula is a water-resistant product. That means it will work well in environments that are sometimes wet (such as residential bathrooms and kitchens), but it does not provide submerged waterproofing benefits.
Can you use this product to bond plywood surfaces?
The product is designed to be highly reliable when used on plywood. The chemical makeup of this commercial adhesive allows it to bond well to hold plywood to plywood and may be highly effective in holding plywood to other surfaces. Ensure the plywood is clean and free from chemicals or damage for the best adhesion.
Why choose this tub surround adhesive instead of nails?
The key benefit of this option is that this commercial adhesive works to provide a strong grip to hold a tub or shower surround in place. It does this without the need for drilling or driving holes in the structure. As a result, it offers a better long-term hold without damaging the surface or creating pathways for water leaks behind the wall.
Can F-13 be used for interior and exterior projects?
Yes, the formula is designed for both interior and exterior applications. It can handle temperature changes, including in situations where there is moisture. Apply it following the directions to minimize failure risks.
Will it hold ceramic walls and floor tiles in place?
Ceramic tile can be tricky, but F-13 is an excellent choice to use for this project. You can use it to hold a single tile in place or an entire tile surround. Use it on countertops, flooring, walls, and most any other type of structure that you need to hold tile in place rapidly. It is particularly beneficial because it creates a near-instant hold, allowing your design to stay in place right away.
What surface preparation is needed before applying this type of adhesive?
While this product is durable and right for many environments, you can increase the overall functionality and lasting ability by ensuring the surface is clean and dry first. Be sure the surface is free from any type of material that could cause adhesion not to be strong enough. Allow surfaces to dry fully before applying the product.
How do you clean up cured or wet adhesive from floors?
The best way to clean up a spill of the product is to scrape off any excess material using a putty knife. It will remove well if you use an angle to apply pressure. Once you remove as much as you can like this, apply a mineral spirit or an equivalent solvent to the surface to remove any additional material present. Always dispose of it responsibly and use gloves and eyewear when using this product for safety purposes.
Is F- 13 recommended for foam attic insulation?
If you are using a foam attic product or another solid material, the use of this formula works well. It should be used only on foam insulation and panels rather than any type of porous material that could prevent the product from properly drying and creating the necessary bond.
