I have had problems with traces of veneer tape glue showing up after I apply finish. I use a gum type tape, purchased from Constatines. I thought I had cleaned/sanded away all traces of the tape glue. Has anyone had this problem ? or a suggestion on method to be sure all glue is removed, or brand of tape to use. Thanks.
R. Holland
Replies
It is unclear to me if the tape was on the face of the veneer or on the underside? Please clarify???? And when you applied the veneer, what adhesive did you use and how was it pressed?
The tape was on the face side of the veneer. I am using a vacuum press with a two part urea resin glue. I made a 60" diameter dining table, the problem showed up on the bottom side of the leaf, so it was not a big problem, however, I thought I had removed all of the tape glue. Did not pay as much attention being the underneath of the table. I just want to avoid the problem in the future.
Robert
I run into two problems with tape when I press/adhere veneer to the substrate.
Like you I get varying amounts of residual adhesive from the tape on the veneer. And I also get excessive compression of the wood under the tape such that after the tape is removed, that area is depressed by an amount equal to the thickness of the tape.
Wetting the wood with warm water provides some thickness recovery and it does indicate where the adhesive has been retained (as stated by the other poster). To get rid of the adhesive, I generally lightly scrape the affected area. This is not a problem if you are using veneer of sufficient thickness.
I tried using a solvent (lacquer thinner) one time but it really made a mess of things by spreading the adhesive over a wider area and it allowed the adhesive to penetrate more deeply into the pores.
Thanks for the advise from all, I will try the scraper method next time, after I get my scrapers fine-tuned.
Robert
Robert, your post (and the responses/advice offered) just go to show how one person's question can help many other people.
I literally JUST finished my first veneer project, a tabletop, and using the same method that you describe. I've had to take a break from the project for a few days to earn some money (geez, how making a living gets in the way!), but my next step is to remove the veneer tape and prep the top for finishing. Now I know something to watch out for, and some things to do to prevent the problem in the first place.
Thanks!
David
Hmmm... the garden or the workshop today?
After the tape is removed, wetting the surface again with water a looking at different angles helps to reveal glue that still remains. Take your time to be sure you removed all, once you stain/finish it's too late. Good luck.
Robert
Thanks for the tip, Robert... if there's one rule I finally learned about woodworking, it's DON'T RUSH!!!
DavidHmmm... the garden or the workshop today?
Just a quick follow-up to all of you who provided advice: I followed your tips and my veneered tabletop is spotless! Once the first coat of oil/varnish went on, I all but danced with joy. Thanks.
DavidHmmm... the garden or the workshop today?
I remove the veneer tape with a rag slightly dampened in hot water. This will quickly remove the tape and most if not all the glue. I always wipe my work down with a damp rag to, both raise the grain, and to spot any problem areas (glue, dents etc.) By looking carefully from several angles, I believe you will be able to see the tape residue while the surface is damp. I use the same tape as you did, but I have never had any problems, this more due to luck than anything else.
I have had problems with residual tape in the past too. One way to prevent it is not to soak the tape when applying it. I try to just moisten it. Also, if you use water to remove it, scrape the tape off immediately after wetting it, or the dissolved glue will penetrate deeper into the pores.
Didn't bother reading all the responses but did want to pass on what works for me. I use clear plastic tape such as used in wrapping packages. It holds the pieces very well and peeled off with no residue or shadow. I use a veneer press and two part glue as you do. Terry
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