Re-surface dining table with veneer

[Pewit]

We have an antique wooden table which had Formica applied to the top surface in the 60s (we think). The laminate is now scratched and we would rather replace it with a veneer either by removing the Formica or (more likely) glueing a Veneer over the Formica, as removal may damage the table and be difficult to achieve completely.

The veneer would need to be stained to match the rest of the table and other furniture (dark wood) and protected by a suitable varnish.

The table top is L1650xW900mm with a built-in split folding leaf mechanism in the centre L450xW900mm.

We're based in an apartment in Sydney centre.

Questions
1. Is this a DIY job or should I get someone in to do it - if so whom?
2. If DIY where can I get large sheets of veneer?
3. Other than rubbing down the laminate with 800 wet&dry to provide a key what other prep is required?
4. What varnish should I use? Given that it's a dining table and while we use table mats, if may have hot dishes on it.

[ian]

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.

[Arron]

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