Product Guides

45 Best contact cement in 2023: According to Experts.

Written by Jeff Lampkin

You could get any random contact cement, but if you’re looking for expert advice on choosing the best one for your needs then you’ve arrived at the right place.

It doesn’t matter what your contact cement needs are or what your budget is, because I’ve done an in-depth analysis to include the best-rated options suitable for diversified usage needs and different budget ranges.

To make this list, I’ve spent 81 hours researching contact cement from the best brands such as: DAP, DAP, DAP.

Note: Make sure that option you’re choosing has all the features you need. Afterall, is there any point in purchasing something that’s not usable?

45 Best contact cement in 2023: After 81 Hours of Research

To make this list an unbiased resource for choosing the best contact cement, I contacted 36 experts and discussed various aspects to consider. After a huge discussion, I went across customer reviews, researched the reputed brands, and a lot of other things. Because my aim is to recommend products that are highly value for your money.

1. 1 pt Dap 00271 Weldwood Contact Cement -Contact Cements

By DAP

  • 30-45 minute drying time needed for bonding at 75° F and 50% relative humidity
  • Use on wood, rubber, paper, leather; hundred of items.
  • The upc of the product is 070798002715
  • Recommended for applying plastic laminates, such as Micarta, to counter-tops.
  • Resists water and most chemicals.
  • Solvent base formula
  • Quick grab with super strength with flash point 22° F
  • This item is not for sale in Catalina Island
  • 5 cycle freeze thaw cycle
  • DAP weld wood original contact cement premium quality, neoprene-based contact cement that meets the stringent requirements of the professional user
  • High strength and initial grab make it ideal for most projects

2. DAP 00107 Weldwood Original Contact Cement,3 oz -Contact Cements

By DAP

  • (2) Permits are important
  • (1) Think ahead
  • Tips for a good project:
  • (4) Expect the unexpected, and (5) Know the code
  • (3) Have a realistic budget

3. DAP 00107 Weldwood Original Contact Cement,3 oz – 3 Pack -Contact Cements

By DAP

  • Price For: Each Type: Contact Cement Size: 3 oz
  • Color: Clear Standards: ASTM, C-834-76 Country of Origin (subject to change): United States

4. Gorilla Rubber Cement with Brush Applicator, 4 Ounce, Clear, (Pack of 2) -Contact Cements

By Gorilla

  • Dries Crystal Clear
  • It forms a flexible, repositionable bond and includes an integrated brush for quick and easy applications.
  • Gorilla Rubber Cement brushes on smoothly and rubs off cleanly – a perfect adhesive for creating your masterpiece.
  • Gorilla Rubber Cement is a non-wrinkling, non-yellowing*, photo safe adhesive that is perfect for a variety of crafting projects.
  • Great for: Paper, Fabric, Foamboard, Photos and More!

5. Permatex 25905 Contact Cement, 1.5 oz., 1.5 Ounce -Contact Cements

By Permatex

  • No clamping required
  • Suggested Applications: weather stripping, rubber mats, carpeting
  • Instantly bonds metal, wood, ceramic, leather, rubber and many other surfaces
  • Specialty adhesive makes a tough, permanent bond on contact
  • Heat and water resistant

7. Barge All Purpose Cement, Neutral, 32 fl oz (Packaging May Vary) -Contact Cements

By Barge

  • Once you Try this cement, you’ll see why it’s considered one of the best adhesives on the market
  • Packaging May Vary
  • Hold securely, even with without stitching or nails
  • Industrial Use, all purpose cement provides a Strong Bond with just one coat
  • Easy-to-spread, non-smearing, waterproof formula is flexible and long lasting

8. Clear-Tite Contact Cement, 4 oz. can – RH Adhesives -Contact Cements

By RH Products

  • Fast Bonding Glue – After applying this adhesive cement to both surfaces, the bond should set in about ten minutes, making it ideal for doing all kinds of repairs
  • Trusted By Manufacturers – Commercial designers who create kitchen cabinets and countertops have relied on this formula for decades, as it sets the industry standard for this type of bond
  • Made-in-America Adhesive – We have been manufacturing our adhesives in the United States since 1949, delivering the trusted bonds our customers require
  • High Temperature Adhesive – We’ve designed the Clear-Tite Contact Cement formula to maintain its bond at extremely high temperatures up to 250 degrees Fahrenheit, creating a long lasting bond without sacrificing performance strength
  • Versatile Contact Cement – Use Clear-Tite to adhere a wide range of materials, including wood, metal, rubber, glass, leather, plastic, and carpeting

9. Barge All-Purpose TF Cement Rubber, Leather, Wood, Glass, Metal Glue 2 oz -Kitchen & Dining Features

By Barge

  • Dries quickly and clear
  • Great for weather stripping, car doors, window repairs, shoe repair and leather goods
  • Highly flammable – store safely and away from children
  • Works with vinyl, PVC, polyurethane, leather, cotton, synthetic and woven fabrics
  • All-purpose glue cement comes ready to use

10. BAZIC Contact Cement Adhesive Glue 1 Oz. (30mL), Super Stong Bonds to Tile Rubber Wood Metal Formica Plastic, 2-Pack -Kitchen & Dining Features

By BAZIC Products

  • Clean tip and replace the cap immediately after applying glue
  • Store in cool dry, dark place.
  • Squeeze tube and apply glue on both surfaces as needed
  • Prolonged exposure to light can cure adhesive
  • Heavier parts may require clamping.
  • CONTACT CEMENT ADHESIVE
  • Create the perfect scrapbook with our various glue types and applicators
  • Great for home-improvement, repairing, and craftwork.
  • Latex-free
  • QUICK TIP
  • STRONG BINDING GLUE
  • Flexible acrylic adhesive for both porous and non-porous surfaces
  • Super Strong Adhesive that forms permanent bonds for variety of applications.
  • STORAGE TIP
  • BONDS & SEAL
  • Use on dry and clean surfaces
  • Wait about 10 minutes before mating parts
  • Contact Cement is ideally for bonding and sealing high pressured laminates such as Tile, Rubber, Wood, Metal, Formica, Plastic, and more similar surfaces.

11. Barge All Purpose Cement Quart (O22721) -Kitchen & Dining Features

By Barge All

  • ONE QUART, 32 oz
  • Barge All Purpose Cement is a professional strength glue (adhesive) that can be used on leather, rubber and vinyl.
  • can comes with an applicator brush attached to the lid.
  • Ideal for patching rubber boots, resole leather shoes, boots, wood, rubber, metal, plastic, plaster, paper, concrete and much, more!

12. Clear-Tite Contact Cement, 16 oz. can – RH Adhesives -Kitchen & Dining Features

By RH Products

  • Made-in-America Adhesive – We have been manufacturing our adhesives in the United States since 1949, delivering the trusted bonds our customers require
  • Versatile Contact Cement – Use Clear-Tite to adhere a wide range of materials, including wood, metal, rubber, glass, leather, plastic, and carpeting
  • High Temperature Adhesive – We’ve designed the Clear-Tite Contact Cement formula to maintain its bond at extremely high temperatures up to 250 degrees Fahrenheit, creating a long lasting bond without sacrificing performance strength
  • Fast Bonding Glue – After applying this adhesive cement to both surfaces, the bond should set in about ten minutes, making it ideal for doing all kinds of repairs
  • Trusted By Manufacturers – Commercial designers who create kitchen cabinets and countertops have relied on this formula for decades, as it sets the industry standard for this type of bond

13. Wilsonart H2O Water-Based Low VOC Nonflammable Contact Adhesive – 1 Gallon -Kitchen & Dining Features

By Wilsonart

  • Meets or exceeds Woodwork Inst
  • Bonds postforming or flatwork applications
  • Goes on white but dries clear with a superior bond strength and hold
  • Spray, brush or roller applied for easy and fast application
  • of California Type II Adhesive
  • Safe, non-flammable, water-based contact adhesive which is non-toxic and extremely low VOC and VHAP content

14. 3M Fastbond Contact Adhesive 30NF, Neutral, 1 Quart Can -Kitchen & Dining Features

By 3M

  • Bonds most foamed plastics, plastic laminate, wood, plywood and canvas to themselves and to each other
  • Creates a very high strength, high temperature resistant bond with up to a 4 hour bonding range
  • Bonding, adhering, gluing, joining and attaching
  • Non flammable in the wet state
  • Bonds most foamed plastics, plastic laminate, wood, plywood and canvas to themselves and to each other
  • Adhesive can be applied by spray, brush or roller
  • Adhesive can be applied by spray, brush or roller
  • Non-flammable in its wet state
  • Creates a very high strength, high temperature resistant bond with up to a four hour bonding range

15. Super Glue Super Glue T-CC12 Contact Cement, 12-Pack(Pack of 12) -Kitchen & Dining Features

By Super Glue

  • Flexible contact adhesive
  • For use with tile, Formica and much more
  • This listing is for 12 individual packages of Contact Cement
  • Model number: T-CC12

16. Clear-Tite Contact Cement, 32 oz. can – RH Adhesives -Kitchen & Dining Features

By RH Products

  • Made-in-America Adhesive – We have been manufacturing our adhesives in the United States since 1949, delivering the trusted bonds our customers require
  • Trusted By Manufacturers – Commercial designers who create kitchen cabinets and countertops have relied on this formula for decades, as it sets the industry standard for this type of bond
  • Versatile Contact Cement – Use Clear-Tite to adhere a wide range of materials, including wood, metal, rubber, glass, leather, plastic, and carpeting
  • Fast Bonding Glue – After applying this adhesive cement to both surfaces, the bond should set in about ten minutes, making it ideal for doing all kinds of repairs
  • High Temperature Adhesive – We’ve designed the Clear-Tite Contact Cement formula to maintain its bond at extremely high temperatures up to 250 degrees Fahrenheit, creating a long lasting bond without sacrificing performance strength

17. Dap 25312 Weldwood Contact Cement Gel Formula 1-Quart, Model: 25312, Outdoor & Hardware Store -Kitchen & Dining Features

By Hardware & Outdoor

  • Manufactured in the United states
  • Gel formula stays put, doesn’t run
  • Premium quality neoprene contact cement dries in 15 minutes
  • This product is a qt contact cement gel
  • Purpose of use for caulk & sealants, contact-cements

18. Gorilla Clear Grip Waterproof Contact Adhesive, , 3 Ounce, Clear, (Pack of 2) -Contact Cements

By Gorilla

  • Fast grab: holds in just seconds
  • Bonds: metal, glass, fabric, wood, ceramic, leather, paper, plastic*, and more
  • Permanent bond
  • 100% waterproof: for indoor/outdoor
  • Crystal clear

19. Angelus Clear Shoe Cement, 4oz can (992-04-000) -Contact Cements

By Angelus

  • DRIES CLEAR: Our Angelus Clear Sneaker Cement Glue is a clear formula perfect for all surfaces without leaving any noticeable stains.
  • Clamp for at least an hour, and then allow it to dry for at least 24 hours.
  • FOR ALL MATERIALS: This clear cement is great for rubber, leather, plastic, vinyl, fabric, cloth, & Much more
  • HOW TO USE: Simply clean the surface, apply thoroughly to both surfaces
  • Perfect for Gluing Rubber Shoe Soles together.
  • MADE IN USA: Our clear cement glue is proudly made in the USA
  • Allow it to sit for 15-30 minutes before pressing it together
  • EXTREMELY STRONG: With this being a contact cement, its extremely strong, mighty enough for the toughest jobs

20. Barge Cement One Quart -Contact Cements

By Barge

  • Toluene- free / No VOC’s
  • Clear adhesive

Related Posts:

21. Barge All-Purpose Cement Rubber Leather Shoe Waterproof Glue 1 Qt (O.946 L) (32 Ounces) -Contact Cements

By Barge

  • All-purpose glue cement comes ready to use
  • Great for weather stripping, car doors, window repairs, shoe repair and leather goods
  • Dries quickly and clear
  • Works with vinyl, PVC, polyurethane, leather, cotton, synthetic and woven fabrics
  • Highly flammable – store safely and away from children

22. Masters Contact Cement 8oz -Contact Cements

By Master

  • SHIPS VIA UPS
  • Strong contact cement will glue together several pieces of leather
  • Masters Contact Cement
  • Can also be used on wood, rubber, cork, metal
  • 8oz with brush
  • FLAMMABLE

23. Clear-Tite Contact Cement, 8 oz. can – RH Adhesives -Contact Cements

By RH Products

  • Made-in-America Adhesive – We have been manufacturing our adhesives in the United States since 1949, delivering the trusted bonds our customers require
  • Fast Bonding Glue – After applying this adhesive cement to both surfaces, the bond should set in about ten minutes, making it ideal for doing all kinds of repairs
  • High Temperature Adhesive – We’ve designed the Clear-Tite Contact Cement formula to maintain its bond at extremely high temperatures up to 250 degrees Fahrenheit, creating a long lasting bond without sacrificing performance strength
  • Trusted By Manufacturers – Commercial designers who create kitchen cabinets and countertops have relied on this formula for decades, as it sets the industry standard for this type of bond
  • Versatile Contact Cement – Use Clear-Tite to adhere a wide range of materials, including wood, metal, rubber, glass, leather, plastic, and carpeting

24. DAP 00107 107 Contact Cement -Contact Cements

By DAP

  • Resists water and most chemicals
  • Manufactured in China
  • Recommended for applying plastic laminates, such as Micarta, to counter tops
  • Bonds instantly and permanently on contact
  • Purpose of use for Caulk & Sealants, contact-cements
  • This product is a 3Oz Bott Contact Cement

25. Duall-88 Leather Adhesive, 4 oz. can – RH Adhesives -Contact Cements

By RH Products

  • Specialized Leather Adhesive – Our Duall-88 formula is one of the strongest adhesives available to bond leather, creating an outstanding bond without sacrificing performance strength
  • Versatile Adhesive – In addition to leather, it also works to bond fabrics, foam, cork, metal, crepe rubber, and plastic, giving you the versatility you need
  • Dries Clear – When using it to repair or manufacture leather goods such as shoes or handbags, it will remain transparent after it dries
  • Adheres Quickly – With Duall-88 Leather Adhesive, you’ll have a bond that sets within ten to thirty minutes, no matter what kind of environmental conditions you’re facing
  • Trusted Adhesive – Formulas from RH Adhesives have been made in the United States since 1949 and set the industry standard for bonding materials

26. Kingman Contact Cement Glue, High Strength, Flexible Adhesive 1 OZ. / 30ML -Contact Cements

By Kingman

  • Easy to Use: Easy spreadable and flexible adhesive for porous and non-porous surfaces
  • Interior and Exterior Use: This adhesive is perfect for both interior and exterior projects with incredible bonding power.
  • Incredibly Strong: Super Strong Adhesive that forms permanent bonds for variety of applications with long lasting results.
  • Wide application: Contact Cement is ideally for bonding and sealing high pressured laminates such as Tile, Rubber, Glass, Metal, and more similar surfaces.
  • A True Quick Fix: Gently apply a small amount of our Instant Glue, and watch the magic happen.

27. DAP Products Weldwood Landau Top & Trim HHR Solvent Type Spray Grade Contact Adhesive 1 Gal, Natural (070798-002333) -Contact Cements

By DAP Products

  • Permanent bond
  • High heat resistant
  • Water resistant
  • Interior & exterior use
  • Ideal for automotive upholstery, foam and vinyl material.

28. DAP 00272 Original Contact Cement Qt Raw Building Material, 1, Tan, 32 Fl Oz -Contact Cements

By DAP

  • This item is not for sale in Catalina Island
  • Material Type: Heat-Treated
  • Solvent base formula
  • Quick grab with super strength with flash point 22° F
  • 5 cycle freeze thaw cycle
  • 30-45 minute drying time needed for bonding at 75° F and 50% relative humidity

29. Lokweld Heat Resistant Contact Adhesive – 1 Quart -Contact Cements

By Lokweld

  • Ideal for bonding carpet, cloth, foam, headliners, landau tops, and leather to foam, metal, or wood
  • 1 quart covers 34 sq
  • Formulated for superior heat resistance and a superior, permanent, water-proof bond
  • of bonded materials (both sides)
  • THE PRODUCT MAY NOT BE SHIPPED TO CALIFORNIA
  • For after-market automotive, marine, and upholstery manufacturing and general-purpose bonding

30. DAP 00107 Weldwood Original Contact Cement, 3 oz -Contact Cements

By DAP

  • The product is highly durable
  • The product is manufactured in United states
  • Easy to use and handle

31. Barge 50-2128 All Purpose Cement, 2 oz, Neutral -Contact Cements

By Barge

  • Country Of Origin: United States
  • Package Height Of The Item Is 1.52cm
  • Package Length Of The Item Is 19.05cm
  • Package Width Of The Item Is 9.65cm

32. 1 qt Dap 25332 Weldwood Non-Flammable Contact Cement -Contact Cements

By DAP

  • NOTE: This product is not recommended for polystyrene foam
  • Complies with all current VOC requirements.
  • Dries in 60-70 minutes, allowing for extra bonding time.
  • Low odor
  • Easy water clean-up
  • Water resistant when dry.
  • Interior/exterior use.

33. Petronio – Masters All purpose cement 4 Oz -Contact Cements

By Masters

  • Used by the shoe repair industry since the 1950’s, it remains the most popular and requested
  • All-Purpose Cement in the United States
  • A quick drying cement popular for its fast set up and its strong waterproof bond.
  • The shoe repair industry’s most popular All-Purpose Cement.

34. S-18 All-Purpose Adhesive, 4 oz. can – RH Adhesives -Contact Cements

By RH Products

  • Create Strong Films – Films made from S-18 deliver excellent peel strength, aging properties, and resistance to oil
  • Bonds to Multiple Materials – Our S-18 formula adheres both porous and non-porous materials, allowing for universal usage with its durable and specialized formula
  • Made-in-America Adhesives – When customers are looking for trusted adhesives either for commercial jobs or for DIY projects around the house, they rely on our formulas, which we’ve been making in the United States since 1949
  • Bonds Rubber to Metal – A common use for S-18 involves affixing SBR rubber and neoprene to metal, as well as multiple types of plastic to other materials, as it creates an outstanding bond without sacrificing performance strength
  • Water Resistant Solvent – When seeking a bonding formula for use in marine applications, trust S-18 All-Purpose Adhesive, as it offers excellent water resistance and outstanding results in difficult temperatures

35. DAP 7079825312 Gel Original Contact Cement Qt Raw Building Material, TAN -Contact Cements

By DAP

  • Gel formula stays put, doesn’t run
  • Meets all CPSC requirements
  • Easy to apply
  • Purpose of use for caulk & sealants, contact-cements
  • Manufactured in the United states
  • Premium quality neoprene contact cement dries in 15 minutes
  • This product is a qt contact cement gel
  • This item is not for sale in Catalina Island

36. Barge Toluene Free All-Purpose Clear Cement, 32 Ounces -Contact Cements

By Barge

  • Size: 32 ounce
  • Barge All-Purpose TF Clear Cement
  • CAN ONLY BE SHIPPED FEDEX OR UPS!
  • Use the Barge Universal Thinner with this cement

37. Barge infinity cement 1 quart -Contact Cements

By Barge

  • Toluene- free / No VOC’s
  • Clear adhesive

38. DAP Weldwood Landau Top & Trim HHR Solvent Type Spray Contact Adhesive -Contact Cements

By DAP Products

  • Ready to Bond in 1-3 minutes
  • Web spray
  • Interior/Exterior Formula
  • Provides a permanent bond on contact
  • High Heat Resistant

40. Renia Aquilim 315 Contact Cement -Contact Cements

By Renia

  • Strong Leather Contact Cement
  • Size: 8 oz bottle
  • Perfect for Veg Tan and Oil Tan Leather!
  • Dries quickly and provides a Super Tough Bond!
  • Water Based and Odorless!

Related Posts:

41. DAP Products Weldwood Contact Cement Spray, Clear, 14 OZ (00120) -Contact Cements

By DAP Products

  • Creates durable long lasting bonds
  • Easy to control spray pattern
  • Exceptional bond strength
  • Dries clear

42. 12 Pack Dap 00105 Weldwood Contact Cement – 3-oz Jar (00107) -Contact Cements

By DAP

  • Strong, instant bonds on contact
  • Excellent water resistance.
  • Can be used on a variety of materials

43. 1882 Water Based Contact Cement ECO Friendly 4 oz 118ml -Contact Cements

By Zelikovitz

  • Flexible so leather will not become stiff and brittle
  • 1882 Water-based Contact Cement
  • Use on leather, foams, formicas, EVA’s and rubber for combining or laminating
  • Eco-Friendly product and suitable for shipping to California
  • Holds quickly and permanently, easy to apply and waterproof

44. W. J. Ruscoe Low VOC Pliobond Multi-Purpose Adhesive -Contact Cements

By W. J. Ruscoe

  • Dries quickly to form Permanent, flexible bonds to withstand vibration, flexing, and stretching
  • Low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) industrial contact cement permanently joins metal, plastic, fiberglass, ceramic, glass, vulcanized rubber, leather, fabric, and plaster
  • Resistant to salt, gasoline, and some acids

45. Loctite HL234923 30537 Solvent-Based Contact Adhesive, 5 fl. oz. Tube, Yellow -Contact Cements

By Loctite

  • Sets to a tack-free surface in 3-4 minutes
  • Withstands freezing temperatures
  • Allows repositioning of parts after initial contact
  • Fast drying, neoprene-based adhesive bonds rubber, insulation, weather-stripping, and other porous materials

Best Brands

Buying a product from a reputable manufacturer that provides high brand value is one of the most essential things. Based on my research, here are the top brands that make the best contact cement.

  • DAP
  • Gorilla
  • Permatex
  • Barge
  • RH Products
  • BAZIC Products
  • Barge All
  • Wilsonart
  • 3M
  • Super Glue

The Buyer’s Guide

Although the aim of this list is to help you choose the best option for your needs. This guide shall help you make an informed purchase decision. Here are the few things to consider when choosing a contact cement.

1. Features

There’s no point in purchasing a contact cement that doesn’t solve your usage needs. Sometimes, even the best option wouldn’t have all the options you’d need. That’s why list down all your feature requirements and make sure that the option you’ve chosen comes with all of them.

2. Budget

Budget plays an important role, if it wasn’t for the budget, wouldn’t everyone purchase the most expensive option? However, before you decide the budget, I’d recommend you to make a list of features you’d need. In case a feature you need the most isn’t available in your budget range, then there’s no point in buying it, is there?

My advice is to make sure that the product has all the features you need then decide the budget. If a product you’ve chosen isn’t having all the features you need, then you should consider increasing your budget.

3. Value For Money

There are times when you shall come across various contact cement that shall have all the features you need. However, the price difference shall exist. In a situation like this, it is recommended to value each feature and make sure that you’re not overpaying for a feature you wouldn’t use.

4. Brand, Customer Support, & Warranty

Purchasing a product from a reputed brand is very important. Not only does it guarantee high-quality build, but you also get much better customer support.

You should also make sure that it has a decent warranty, it is really helpful in case a product breaks down due to manufacturing defects. Also, repairs during warranty are generally free of cost (depends on service terms).

5. Individual Product Reviews

You don’t have to watch individual reviews of each contact cement in this list. However, pick 2-3 options that have all the technical aspects according to your usage needs. Once you’re ready with it, go to YouTube/Amazon and look at video/customer reviews to make sure that the existing buyers are satisfied with the product.

The FAQs

Which is the best contact cement?

According to my research, the 1 pt Dap 00271 Weldwood Contact Cement is the best option.

Is DAP a reliable brand?

It’s one of the best brands, not only does it make the top-rated contact cement, but it also is known for its exceptional service.

Which is the cheapest yet powerful contact cement?

According to me, the BAZIC Contact Cement Adhesive Glue 1 Oz. (30mL), Super Stong Bonds to Tile Rubber Wood Metal Formica Plastic, 2-Pack is one of the cheapest options available and yet has all the features.

Are there deals going on?

A few of the options in our article are currently available for a discounted price. However, check out the product listing to find more information.

What brands should I consider when purchasing?

Based on my research, these are the top 5 brands: DAP, DAP, DAP, Gorilla, and Permatex.

Should I buy it online or go to an offline store?

Shopping online comes with a few advantages such as discounted pricing, quick delivery at home. However, if you’re in a hurry or can find the product for a cheaper price in the offline market, consider visiting the offline store.

The Verdict

Choosing the right product isn’t easy and for many of them it could be a time consuming task. However, with this guide, my aim is to help you guys find the perfect contact cement for your needs.

I’ve done a huge research to ensure that options I’ve listed are among the best. Like mentioned above, I also interviewed many experts to make sure that the enlisted models are high quality.

I hope that you’re able to find the right contact cement for your usage. If you are still struggling to find one, feel free to comment below or contact me.

About the author

Jeff Lampkin

Jeff Lampkin was the first writer to have joined gamepolar.com. He has since then inculcated very effective writing and reviewing culture at GamePolar which rivals have found impossible to imitate. His approach has been to work on the basics while the whole world was focusing on the superstructures.