Removing plastic laminate from furniture typically involves using heat and a prying tool to loosen the adhesive, which is often a type of rubber cement.
Here's a breakdown of the process using the recommended tools:
Tools You Will Need
To effectively remove plastic laminate, you will primarily need:
- Heat Gun: As powerful as a hair dryer but much hotter.
- Putty Knife: Approximately 4 inches wide.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Heat Gun | Softens the adhesive |
| Putty Knife | Pries under and lifts the laminate |
The Removal Process
Plastic laminate is generally applied using a type of rubber cement. This adhesive softens when heated, making it easier to lift the laminate. The process is straightforward:
- Prepare: Ensure the work area is clear and well-ventilated. Put on work gloves if desired.
- Apply Heat: Start at one edge or corner of the laminate. Use the heat gun to warm a small section of the laminate. Move the gun slowly over the area to distribute the heat evenly. Avoid overheating, which can damage the furniture or the laminate itself (though damaging the laminate might be the goal).
- Start Peeling: Once the area is warm (it doesn't need to be excessively hot, just warm enough to soften the adhesive), take your 4″ or so putty knife. Work the edge of the knife carefully under the edge of the warmed laminate.
- Lift and Continue: Once you have a small piece lifted, start peeling it back gently. As you peel, continue to heat the area just ahead of where you are peeling. This continuous heating and peeling action allows you to progressively remove the laminate.
- Dealing with Resistance: If you encounter resistance, apply more heat to that specific spot. Don't force the knife, as you could damage the underlying furniture surface.
- Clean Up: After the laminate is removed, there may be residual rubber cement adhesive left on the furniture surface. This can often be scraped off gently with the putty knife or cleaned with an appropriate adhesive remover designed for the furniture's material (test in an inconspicuous area first).
By following these steps, you can systematically remove plastic laminate from furniture using the heat gun and putty knife method, taking advantage of the rubber cement's reaction to heat.
