Mastic adhesive is made from the sticky resin of the mastic tree which grows in the Mediterranean. Because of its sticky nature, it is used as a bonding agent in many commercial applications. Some types of mastic adhesive are construction adhesive, industrial adhesive, and ceramic tile adhesive. Depending on the application, the adhesive is available in thin liquid, thick glue, or paste form.

Mastic adhesive used in construction is in liquid form and is in a caulking gun. The adhesive is squeezed out by hand in a thin line along wall or ceiling joints. The strength of the adhesive helps hold load-bearing walls in place. In ceilings, the quick-setting adhesive eliminates the need to support heavy drywall for extended periods of time. Construction adhesive is also used as a temporary hold for fixtures so they can be nailed or screwed in place by one person.

Industrial uses for mastic adhesive include repairing duct work in the heating and air industry. This is due to its heat resistant properties and the ability to seal and form and a strong bond. Mastic adhesive also bonds with most any material so repairs to concrete, brick, or mortar are also achievable. The adhesive for industrial uses comes in a finely ground powder that is mixed to form a paste. It is smeared onto the repair area and allowed to dry.

Ceramic tile adhesive is mainly available in two forms, mastic and thin set. Mastic adhesive is a premixed adhesive that can be directly applied, and thin set is a powder that must be mixed and left to sit for several minutes before using. Mastic is applied in areas where moisture will not be an issue, such as backsplashes in kitchens or wall tile. Thin set is applied in bathrooms because it is moisture-resistant. It is not typically used on walls because it takes longer to bond.

Mastic is only suitable for ceramic tile because other types, such as porcelain or marble, are porous. Over time, the mastic adhesive could seep into the tile and cause the tile to discolor. Ceramic tile is often used on walls in restaurants and homes. Mastic adhesive works well in these applications because it creates an extremely tight bond with the wall. It also sets quickly, which is an advantage when working with vertical designs because the need to stand and hold each tile while it dries is greatly reduced.