If you are a fan of smoking herb or tobacco from a glass bong, you know how frustrating it can be when your precious piece gets damaged. Whether it’s a crack, a chip, or a clean break, you don’t want to throw away your bong just because of a minor flaw. Fortunately, there are some ways to fix a broken glass bong and restore it to its former glory. In this blog post, we will show you some of the methods and products you can use to repair your glass bong at home.
Assess the Damage
The first thing you need to do is to assess the extent and type of damage your bong has suffered. Not all cracks and breaks are the same, and some may be easier or harder to fix than others. Here are some general guidelines to help you decide if your bong is repairable or not:
- If your bong is shattered into many pieces, you are out of luck. There is no way to put them back together without professional glassblowing skills and equipment.
- If your bong has a single crack, chip, or busted piece, you may be able to fix it with some products that are easy to get your hands on.
- If your bong has multiple cracks, chips, or busted pieces, you may still be able to fix it, but it will require more time and effort.
- If your bong has a hole larger than a pea, you may not be able to fix it at all. The hole will compromise the integrity and functionality of the bong.
Choose the Right Product
Once you have determined that your bong is salvageable, you need to choose the right product to fix it. There are many options available, but not all of them are safe or effective for repairing glass bongs. You want to avoid products that contain toxic solvents that can leach into your smoke and harm your health. You also want to avoid products that are not heat-resistant or waterproof, as they can melt or leak when exposed to high temperatures or water. Here are some of the best products for fixing glass bongs:
- Food grade silicone: This is a non-toxic and waterproof substance that can be used as a sealant for minor cracks and chips. It can also fill in gaps between broken pieces and create a tight bond. Food grade silicone is easy to apply and remove, and it does not crack, crumble, peel, or dry out. However, it does not provide much structural support and it is not very discreet.
- Two-part epoxy: This is a strong and durable substance that can be used to glue broken pieces together. It is made by mixing a resin and a hardener that polymerize and create a solid bond. Two-part epoxy is heat-resistant and waterproof, but it can become waterlogged if left submerged for too long. It is also hard to remove once it dries.
- Loctite glass glue: This is a special type of cyanoacrylate (super glue) that is designed for bonding glass. It is water-resistant and heat-resistant, and it does not contain solvents that can be toxic. However, it can only work for hairline cracks and clean breaks, as it does not fill in gaps or chips.
- Duct tape: This is a cheap and easy option for fixing glass bongs, but it is not very elegant or effective. Duct tape can temporarily seal cracks near the base of the bong or hold broken pieces together, but it does not create a strong or permanent bond. It can also peel off easily or leave sticky residue behind.
- Blow torch: This is an option for those who have glassblowing skills and equipment. A blow torch can be used to heat up the crack or break and melt the glass together. This can create a seamless and durable repair, but it requires precision and expertise.
Follow the Instructions
Once you have chosen the product that suits your needs, you need to follow the instructions carefully to ensure a successful repair. Here are some general steps to follow:
- Clean the area around the crack or break with alcohol or soap and water. Make sure there is no dirt, dust, resin, or moisture that can interfere with the adhesion.
- Apply the product according to the directions on the package. Use enough to cover the crack or break, but not too much to create a mess or a bulge. Smooth out any excess or bubbles with a toothpick or a knife.
- Let the product dry or cure completely before using the bong. This may take from a few minutes to a few hours, depending on the product. Do not expose the bong to heat or water until the product is fully set.
- Test the bong for leaks and functionality. Fill it with water and check for any drips or bubbles. If there are any, you may need to apply more product or start over. If not, you can enjoy your repaired bong.
Conclusion
Repairing a cracked or broken glass bong is possible, but it requires some patience and skill. You need to assess the damage, choose the right product, and follow the instructions carefully. However, not all bongs can be fixed, and some repairs may not last long or look good. Sometimes, it may be better to invest in a new bong instead of trying to fix an old one. If you are looking for high-quality glass bongs at affordable prices, check out Lookah, a leading online headshop that offers a wide range of bongs and accessories for all your smoking needs.
