3 Common Mistakes People Make When Working with Wood Veneers
Sep 12th 2024
When working with wood veneers, it's easy to make mistakes that affect the quality and durability of the finished product. Here are three common mistakes to watch out for:
1. Improper Surface Preparation
- Mistake: Failing to properly prepare the surface before applying the veneer.
- Impact: Veneers adhere poorly to dirty, rough, or uneven surfaces, leading to bubbles, gaps, or peeling over time.
- Solution: Sand the surface smooth and clean it thoroughly to remove dust, grease, and other contaminants. A perfectly flat, clean surface ensures better adhesion and a smoother finish.
2. Using the Wrong Adhesive
- Mistake: Choosing an inappropriate adhesive or applying too much/too little glue.
- Impact: This can cause the veneer to warp, bubble, or delaminate, ruining the look and strength of the project.
- Solution: Use adhesives recommended for veneers, such as contact cement, PVA glue, or specialized veneer glue. Apply an even layer and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying and pressing.
3. Inadequate Clamping or Pressing
- Mistake: Not applying enough pressure or not using the proper clamping technique.
- Impact: Without sufficient pressure, air pockets or weak bonds can form, leading to bubbling or peeling edges.
- Solution: Use even pressure across the entire veneer surface with clamps, or a veneer press. Avoid using a j-roller as this tool will not provide the even pressure needed for a wood veneer project. Make sure the pressure is applied uniformly for a smooth bond. Keep clamps in place until the adhesive is fully cured.
Paying attention to these key steps will help achieve a professional finish when working with wood veneers.