Thread: Re-surface dining table with veneer

Hi Pewit

I think it might be easier and less expensive to get a new table.

If the table really is an antique, whoever glued the Formica to it possibly destroyed its value as an antique.
However it should be possible to manufacture a new top to place on the original legs.

to address your questions
1. Is this a DIY job or should I get someone in to do it - if so whom?
Given the scale of the job and your location I don't consider it a DIY job. Formica is usually glued down with a contact adhesive -- probably rubber cement -- which can be loosened with a combination of heat and lacquer thinner. You need very good ventilation when using lacquer thinner and exercise care so that the thinners don't ignite. You'll also need a few wide flat spatulas to use as levers.

2. If DIY where can I get large sheets of veneer?
Sorry can't help you there.
But having acquired the veneer, it needs to be jointed and assembled into a single sheet larger than the table top. Getting a good grain match across the folding leaf is doable, but will require some practice.

3. Other than rubbing down the laminate with 800 wet&dry to provide a key what other prep is required?

I'm thinking the cost -- in terms of labour -- to get to this stage of the process, is greater than the cost of a new table top, if not a whole new table.

I have had similar jobs done by pro veneering outfits and generally they can purchase the veneer for you and press it down for less then the price it would cost you just to purchase the veneer - often way less.

Also, it's pretty difficult to press large veneers DIY - except perhaps by using contact glue which is a second rate way of doing it.

Give Specialty Veneer Wood Panels in Smithfield a call. They will advise on the laminate too. I have no connection with them, just found them competent and helpful.

I know this is a diy site, but some jobs really don't suit diy.

If you must do it yourself, Briggs Veneer is in Sydney and has a wide range. Generally, though, buying a tabletop quantity of veneer is very difficult as most suppliers just don't want to deal at that level.

Cheers
Arron