APPLICATION AND FINISHING RECOMMENDATIONS

UTILISATION

  1. A smooth flat surface is essential for lamination. All dust, dirt, oil, previous finishes or any other foreign material must be removed.
  2. Ideal manufacturing conditions are temperatures from 17oC (63oF) to 21oC (71oF) and at a relative humidity between 50 and 60%. Substrates: Flexible veneer laminates can be applied to many types of normal wood-based substrate materials having flat, thoroughly clean, dry surfaces. Direct application to soil wood, sheet rock, plaster, metal or cement is not recommended.
  3. Solvent or water-based contact adhesives will produce satisfactory results. The contact adhesive must be applied to the substrate as well as to the veneer laminate backer according to the adhesive manufacturer’s specified rate. If the substrate is porous, a second coating may be required. It is critical to allow adequate adhesive drying or open time prior to lamination. This is particularly critical on water-based contact adhesives. Contact adhesives that provide high shear strength will minimize dimensional changes and thereby reduce finish cracking or checking tendencies.
  4. Place a piece of craft or wax paper between the substrate and the veneer laminate. Working slowly, carefully slip the paper out from under the sheet a few inches at a time, using care and placement. You will not be able to reposition the veneer after the paper is removed. Use a scraper tool or veneer roller (not a J roller) to smooth out the veneer in the direction of the grain. Firm pressure is required for lamination to occur between the two adhesive surfaces. After the laminating process is completed, allow 6 hours to cure, and then inspect the sheet for bubbles or blisters.

Ways to repair bubbles or blisters.

Bubbles can be deflated by making a small slit in the direction of the grain with a razor knife, then forcing the trapped air out. An iron can be used to relaminate the area that has been slit. Use a paper sheet to protect the veneer from high temperature. It may be necessary to inject additional adhesive into the affected area.

Finishing: Carefully follow the application instruction of all finishing materials.

  1. Finishing should not occur prior to 24 hours following lamination. Before finishing, inspect again for bubbles or blisters. A thorough sanding of the complete surface should be completed prior to finishing. Oil or stain must be applied sparingly and wiped off immediately. A test panel is recommended to ensure the compatibility of materials.
  2. Varnish: Apply a thin coat of sanding sealer. Allow 12 to 24 hours for drying. Sand thoroughly, then apply varnish.
  3. Lacquer: Apply 2 to 3 thin coats (less than 2 dry mils) of dull lacquer. The lacquer will act as a sealer. Due to the flexible nature of veneer laminate, we recommend the use of a plasticized finishing system. Please consult with your surface coating supplier on flexible formulation options. 
  4. Oil: Quick drying oils are recommended. Allow additional time for the adhesive to dry if an oil finish is desired. DO NOT SATURATE THE VENEER SURFACE WITH OIL. Wipe dry as quickly as possible with a clean cloth. DO NOT USE LINSEED OIL.
  5. Stain: Before staining, a thin coat of sanding sealer should be applied. This should be sanded after drying. Standard wood stains are recommended. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

IMPORTANT

The instructions (verbal or written) suggested are based upon our experience with this product. However, due to varying procedures and conditions, this information is given without obligation or warranty. We recommend that thorough testing of this product, adhesives and finishing materials be completed prior to final application. Multiflex Veneers only guarantees its product. The use and processing of our products are beyond our control and therefore exclusively the responsibility of the user. 

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