LaurelLaneWoodWorks

Hello all,

Well, I have a little project coming up and wanted to get your expert opinions. I have a friend who has a nice table, but the veneer on the top has bubbled all up, probably from water. I was wondering if anyone has ever done a replacement of veneer before and what kind of issues I should be looking for. I have refinished mostly solid wood furniture, so this is territory for me.

Thanks in advance,

Mike

johnjf0622

Have you looked at ways to fixing what is there? That would be easier than stripping it off and prepping it for the new veneer. I have seen some veneers fixed by injecting glue in the bubble and clamped down with wax paper between the board and the top that way it wont stick. It is worth the try if that doesn't work then replace it. Hope it helps you out. Let me know how you made out.

John

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cabinetman

If the entire top needs replacing and it's beyond spot repairs, there are some things to keep in mind. I've had the best luck in veneer removal with a heat gun. You have to get it hot enough to have the glue release, but not transfer a lot of heat to the substrate. Not that it really matters, but if the substrate is glued up sections, too much heat may break down the glue joints, or cause some warping.

You may not know what glue was used, but a heat gun will work on most. Heat in progressive sections and as the veneer comes loose, lightly separate it from the substrate with a wide spatula. If you pull up you stand to curl the veneer. You don't want to do this, because the piece may be salvageable. If the veneer could be reused, it would have to be flattened with a veneer softener.

LaurelLaneWoodWorks

Great suggestions! Thanks for them all. I think my friend is leaning towards a full replacement of the top. We haven't decided if that is a new veneer top or ??? I would rather go with the veneer top myself.

Thanks again for the comments.