Veneer is one of the most popular types of wood to create furniture. And that is why you need to learn a few things about repairing veneer furniture.
Why do you need to learn how to repair wood veneer?
When it comes to learning how to repair veneer furniture, you need to understand a few things about the furniture. See, wood veneer is only a very thin layer. This layer is the glue to the base of the furniture with some glue and wooden strip.
Wood veneer is prone to damages because of its thin nature.
Also, wood veneer is not water-proof. So, water can get into the surface layer, and damage it.
Exposure to water and glue can also lead moisture to seep in, which makes it difficult to keep it in good condition.
Another thing to remember is that the thin layer is very easy to damage. So, your veneer wood is prone to becoming cracked, broken, or become buckled.
That said, it becomes important for you to learn how to repair wood veneer. If that is what you’re looking for, then you’re in the right place.
In this blog, we will get into how to repair wood veneer in easy steps.
Steps to repairing wood veneer
Since wood veneer can become damaged easily, there are multiple ways of the furniture being damaged. So, there are different ways to repair furniture.
That said, there is an easy way to learn how to repair wood veneer. Before we get into the steps, here is what you need:
- Sanding paper, moderate grain.
- Paint.
- Clean rags.
- Finish (wood finish)
- Wood glue.
- Fingernail file.
Step 1: Lifting the damaged part of the wooden furniture
The first step is to lift the edge of the area that is damaged. You will see a veneer sheet peeling off, which is the commonest repair requirement for veneer furniture.
So, to lift the area, you will need to insert a fingernail file. Without this, you will find it hard to separate the wooden layer off the furniture.
You can even make use of a paper clip.
Step 2: Cleaning the area
The next step in our how to repair wood veneer guide is to make use of a cleaning tool. Pull out the old and dried glue. So, ensure that you get all of the glue out.
Leaving old glue in the edge can damage the veneer. Once you loosen up the edge, cleaning should be a priority.
You can make use of a small knife or a tool to pull out the old glue.
Step 3: Adding Glue to the edge
The next step in our how to repair wood veneer guide is to ensure that the area is glued back. Once you add the wood glue to the edge that you’ve pried open, make sure you spread it around.
Ensure that the glue is spread evenly so that the glue can hold on to the wood properly.
You can even use an ice cream stick or a thin stick to spread it around.
Step 4: Finishing the Repair
The last step in how to repair wood veneer guide is to press the area down. Make sure that you have some form of weight or tape to bind the area. This will help you to glue it with wooden pieces.
Let the area dry and wait for the glue to harden. To be safe, leave the area for about a day or so. This will be enough to let the glue stick with the veneer.
Step 5 (Optional): Sanding and painting
Once the layers are stuck you should add a finish. Although you can leave the area as is, painting and sanding work if you have some time.
So, if you have some time, sand the edges first. This will help you to improve the surface. Next, you should add a paint coat on the same surface. Make sure that the paint is similar to the furniture you have.
That said, you can even add a layer of sealant to finish the entire look.
This will give you a good look in the end. Lastly, you should also give the entire furniture a layer of sealant if you have some time at hand.
Other things to keep in mind when repairing veneer wood
If you’re struggling with how to repair wood veneer, then here are some things to keep in mind:
- First, remember that do not separate the wood too far apart. If you create a big gauge in the wooden area, it will be difficult to clean it and glue it.
- You can sand the sides as well. If you want to ensure that your furniture looks perfect, add a sealant and paint coat. So, what you can do is apply a layer of color and sealant to the surface of the furniture.
- If you see a blister in the middle of the furniture, this is what you need to do to learn how to repair wood veneer:
- Make a slit on the furniture’s surface. You should make use of a single-edge razor blade.
- When you make the slit, be sure to cut along the direction of the wood grain.
- Use an applicator to add and insert the glue into the area. You may have to push the glue inside.
- Next, press the portion of the veneer you slit to ensure that it begins to stick. But make sure that you lift and press the portion of the veneer numerous times. This will help you get the air out and spread the glue properly.
Conclusion
Veneer repairs can be different for every type of furniture. Oftentimes, veneer furniture repairs will call for creative solutions.
In any kind of repair type, you will need some wood glue, and creative ideas to stick the veneer together.
While prepping the area, if you see that there are some wooden scarps in the area, so clean it off. Ensure that the glue is added only when the area is absolutely clean or else the wood won’t stick.
