The three types of setting mechanisms for adhesives are described - solvent evaporation, thermosetting and chemical reaction. Thermosetting hot hide glues were the primary adhesives used through the early 20th century. Variables in the application of adhesives which can cause a weakened joint are enumerated. The ethical conservation principles of reversibility and long term stability limit the number of adhesives that can be used for furniture conservation. Also described are the function of furniture finishes and methods of application. Finishing materials used by 18th and 19th cabinetmakers include waxes, natural resins, gums and oils. Shellac came into use in the late 18th or early 19th century, but has been largely replaced in the early 20th century by synthetic finishes. Very few pieces of furniture exist today with the original transparent finish intact. Historic colorants added to finishes were generally the same as those used in textiles. Shellac is the most common finish used in conservation today. Basic components and application methods of paints used for furniture are also described. This is the 5th in a 10-part series of articles on furniture conservation.