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I was asked to remove veneer that was set on top of a round coffee table. Half of the veneer was warped up because of sun and water damage but the other half is still on well. Considering that I am an inexperinced woodworker but highly enjoy it, what is the easiest way to remove the veneer? I dont know what type of glue was used. Thank YOu.
The glue used depends upon the age of the table. It could be hyde, PVA (yellow carpenter's glue) or contact cement.
The easiest way I've found to remove veneer if the first two adhesives were used is by "steaming" the veneer. You need some water, a volleyball and some rolled clear plastic sheeting.
First, take the table outside where it can have some quiet time sitting and basking in total Sunlight. Wet the veneer surface liberally - that means pour it on. Put the volleyball in the center then drape the clear plastic sheet over the table - tuck it under the edges of the table and tape it to the underneath surface - it doesn't have to be taped the entire perimeter. Pretty soon the plastic will get cloudy...that's a good thing. Let the table sit there to think about all the things it has done for several hours.
You'll know when it's time.
If contact cement was used then use a heat gun and a 2" wide putty knife. Heat the veneer in a sweeping motion while poking the putty knife under the veneer to loosen it. After all the veneer is removed lacquer thinner is best for cutting the remaning cement.
Joe Johns,
Twisted Knot Woodshop "There's never been a classier joint"
I would assume, considering the type of damage, that Hide Glue was used. Hide Glue is the must widely used glues for commercial furniture construction. If it is Hide Glue, the best way to remove it is first to wet it down, then heat it with a heat gun or use a stream iron working in small arrears at a time.