How to Repair a Peeling Ping-pong Table With a Veneer Surface

Ping-pong is a sport that has become more a part of American pop culture since more than a half-century ago. Many families have ping-pong tables in a garage, basement or game room. While a good table can last for many years, occasional repairs will need to be made. One of the most common is regluing a laminate, or veneer facing, that has begun to peel. It can be treated as any veneer repair, using wood glue to rebond the veneer to the table surface.

Things You'll Need

  • Paintbrush
  • Vacuum
  • Scraper
  • Wood glue
  • Wax paper
  • Plywood
  • C-clamps
  • Damp rag
  • Chisel
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Lift up the edge of the veneer as far as possible without putting a strain on it. Use a paintbrush or whisk broom to clean any dirt and debris from the surface below. If fine dust is present, use a vacuum with a hose attachment to clear it. Scrape any old glue from the bottom of the veneer or table top with a razor scraper and remove the debris.

    • 2

      Prop the veneer up and off the table surface with a dowel. Spread a thin coat of wood glue on the back of the veneer and onto table top. Allow this to set for 15 minutes, until the glue becomes tacky. Press the veneer down onto the table firmly, pressing from the middle of the table out to force any air pockets out.

    • 3

      Cover the repair area with a piece of wax paper to prevent any excess glue from adhering to the clamp board. Set a piece of heavy ½- or 3/4-inch-thick plywood over the repair and clamp the board to the table, using C-clamps. Use at least three, if possible, to spread the pressure evenly. Wipe any glue from the edge of the table that seeps out with a damp rag.

    • 4

      Allow the glue to set for 24 hours before removing the clamps. Clean any glue residue from the edge of the table with a sharp wood chisel.