How to Remove Veneer on Wood Furniture

Use a putty knife to remove veneer from your furniture.

A variety of furniture is made of wood veneer. This material costs less than actual wood, which makes purchasing furniture that has the signature wood look more affordable for many. However, wood veneer is usually not as sturdy as actual wood. In addition, the veneer can also crack or bubble. In order to remedy the problem, you have to remove the veneer and apply a new layer. Removing veneer is quite simple, and all you'll need is a few tools.

Things You'll Need

• Heat gun
• Putty knife
• Steam iron
• Cloth

Instructions

1. Hold a heat gun up to an edge of the furniture. After a few moments of applying the heat, attempt to pull the edge up with a putty knife. If the edge gives you resistance, apply more heat. The goal is to melt the glue to the point you are able to release the veneer from the adhesive.

2. Apply the heat gun to the rest of the furniture's edges and attempt to remove the veneer with a putty knife. If the furniture was recently made, it will likely use an adhesive that may be difficult to remove. If you are meeting resistance with the heat gun, use a steam iron. Place a piece of cloth on the veneer and then set the iron on top. Move the iron in a circular motion. The heat and steam should work together to melt the glue so you can pull the veneer away.

3. Scrape off any additional glue left behind with your putty knife, once the veneer is gone. You can also use a rubber spatula to remove the glue. Take care not to damage the chipboard underneath.

Tips & Warnings

• Instead of removing the old veneer, you may be able to apply new veneer over what already exists, as long as it is not cracked, bubbled or chipped.

References

• Apartment Ratings: How to Remove and Replace Wood Veneer on Your Furniture
• Home Refurbishment: How to Remove the Veneer of a Piece of Furniture