HH-66 Vinyl Cement vs. Contact Cement: Which One Should You Use?

Many DIYers and professionals compare HH-66 to contact cement, but these adhesives have key differences. Let’s break down their unique properties and help you determine the best option for your project.

What Is HH-66 Vinyl Cement?

HH-66 Vinyl Cement is a high-strength adhesive specially designed to bond and repair vinyl fabrics. Unlike other adhesives, HH-66 is resistant to the chemicals found in vinyl products, ensuring long-lasting durability. It also stands up to industrial chemicals, making it a reliable choice for a variety of applications.

Key Features of HH-66 Vinyl Cement:

• Exceptional Bonding Power: Bonds vinyl-coated and vinyl-laminated fabrics like Shelter-Rite® and Weblon® to themselves or other materials.
• Versatile Applications: Adheres to urethane, vinyl foams and films, leather and metals.
• Waterproof & Weather Resistant: Ideal for outdoor and marine applications.
• Quick Drying: Reaches full strength within 24 hours.
• Seam Sealing Capabilities: Great for sealing and waterproofing stitched seams.

However, HH-66 will not work on polyolefin materials, such as polyethylene and polypropylene (commonly found in store-bought blue tarps and plastic sheeting).

Shop HH-66 Vinyl Cement

What Is Contact Cement?

Contact cement is another popular adhesive made from polychloroprene (neoprene) or natural rubber. It effectively bonds materials like laminates, rubbers, plastics, some fabrics and nonporous surfaces. While it can be used to repair vinyl, it is not recommended for long-term durability.

Why Contact Cement Is Not Ideal for Vinyl:

• Weaker Bond Over Time: Unlike HH-66, contact cement lacks the resilience needed for vinyl. The chemicals in vinyl can break down the adhesive, causing the bond to fail.
• Less Durability: On vinyl tarps, covers and upholstery, contact cement will degrade, leading to peeling or separation.
• Not as Strong: Even on compatible materials, contact cement does not form as secure of a bond as vinyl cement.

For projects where contact cement is the preferred option, Sailrite offers S-18 All Purpose Adhesive — a high-quality bonding agent designed for a variety of materials, including leather, cork, rubber, plastic, felt, ceramics, wood and more. 

Shop S-18 All Purpose Adhesive

Which Adhesive Should You Choose?

For vinyl-coated and vinyl-laminated fabrics, HH-66 Vinyl Cement is the best choice for a long-lasting, waterproof and chemical-resistant bond. It’s the go-to adhesive for marine, automotive and industrial vinyl applications.

However, if your project requires an all-purpose adhesive for laminates, rubbers or plastics, Sailrite’s S-18 All Purpose Adhesive is a great alternative.

Check out the video below to see HH-66 in action as it bonds Shelter-Rite fabrics for a repair. For top-quality adhesives and expert advice, Sailrite is your one-stop shop!