Understanding Common Veneer Adhesives
The nature (looks, longevity) of the veneered surface dictates what type of adhesive is needed for the adhesive to be used on the substrate. Therefore, the designer, furniture maker and installer should identify a way to permanently bond the veneer to the substrate that provides long-term function as well as aesthetic appeal.
By understanding the different veneer adhesive types used for veneering, the designer, furniture maker and installer can make a more informed decision about which adhesive would work best for their project.
Here are some of the more popular forms of adhesives used for veneering:
- PVA Glue
- Contact Adhesive
- Hot Press Glue
Each adhesive comes with different curing methods, bonding strengths, and application suitability.
PVA Glue: A Popular Choice
PVA is one of the most important adhesives for woodworking and furniture making, due to the ease of application and ability to work. PVA adhesive also offers the following benefits:
- Strong bond
- Easy to apply
- Cost effective
- Available from multiple suppliers
- Suitable for furniture or cabinetry
Most applications for PVA adhesive are in general woodworking and interior furniture applications.
Contact Adhesive vs Hot Press Glue
When conducting a veneer glue comparison, one would need to take into account how each adhesive is applied, along with its bonding strengths and weaknesses.
As a general rule, contact adhesive is preferred because it:
- Provides instant bonding
- Utilisation processes are simple and quick
- Is great for veneering curved surfaces
Hot press glue is preferred because it:
- Provides consistent bonding performance
- Is used for producing large quantities of items
- Supports an effective production process
- Decreases time and effort when producing multiple items
- Provides consistent pressure when bonding
The adhesive selected depends on the type of veneer application and equipment available – understanding how veneer is manufactured helps in selecting the right bonding method for each substrate.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Adhesive
Several factors should be considered before selecting an adhesive for veneering, including:
- What type of materials or substrates are involved
- What are the environmental conditions where the adhesive will be used
- How many sheets of veneer will be bonded together
- What is the intended use for the bonded veneer
Regardless of the veneer type used, adhesive compatibility is key especially for complex projects, refer to the guide on veneer application on curved and irregular surfaces where contact cement plays a critical role.
Conclusion
Ultimately, selecting the best glue for veneer sheet applications depends on the specific requirements of the project. By understanding how PVA Glue, Contact Adhesive, and Hot Press Glue perform in different situations, you can maximize your chances of creating a durable, high-quality, and long-lasting veneered product.
