Questions to Ask Before Buying and Applying Veneer from Oakwood

There are several things to know before buying and applying wood veneer from Oakwood. Certain projects work great for flexible veneer, and certain projects either won't work, or will need certain actions to be taken in order for it to work. Here are the questions:

1. How are you applying the veneer to the substrate? Hot or cold pressing as well as vacuum pressing are the best options for applying veneer, but some craftsmen without access to a press want to use contact cement. If so, our bubble-free backing is your best choice. Visit the contact cement hints page for more information on applying contact cement. Don't assume a certain type of glue or application process will work if you haven't tried it before. Read the instructions on the User Tips pages or give us a call at 800-426-6018.

2. How are the humidity conditions in the room where the veneer will remain? 35%-40% is ideal. If it will drop to below 20% in the winter (due to lots of dry heat and no humidifier), or if there will be huge fast swings in humidity, you will want to use a very stable finish, wood species, and backing material. Give us a call at 800-426-6018 to get some good options. Even if the humidity will be stable and in a good range, you should leave the veneer in the installation room for 5 or more days before installing. This will greatly reduce movements after the veneer is installed.

3. Is the veneer project outdoors or in the presence of moisture, like in a bathroom? Our veneer on its own is not designed to be outdoors or in areas of moisture. However it can be done using a vacuum press, an epoxy finish, and a UV coat over the top, similar to what would be needed when using wood on the outside of a boat. If you are new to this process, give us a call at 800-426-6018.

4. What type of project is the veneer being used for? Certain uses are better than others. For example our product is made for veneering walls, bookshelves, desks, interior pillars, kitchen cabinets etc. It is not made well for flooring and moisture-filled areas such as outdoor applications, doors, kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities and tubs (except when applied with epoxy etc. as mentioned in #3 above).

In other words, call us at 800-426-6018 and tell us about your project to make sure it will work and go as smoothly for you as possible.