ᐅ How can delamination of the veneers be prevented or repaired on IKEA HEMNES furniture?

Hello everyone, I have a somewhat tricky question regarding the Hemnes series from IKEA: What is the best way to deal with peeling veneers on Hemnes furniture?

Specifically, I’m dealing with the light-colored veneers on the fronts of the drawers, which are slowly peeling off at the edges. Not only does it look unattractive, but so far I haven’t been able to fix it permanently. I’m aware of the usual steps, like thoroughly cleaning before repair or pressing down with rollers, but the veneers still don’t hold long-term.

Maybe someone here has solid experience or tips on how to securely reattach the veneer or even prevent it from peeling in the first place? Possibly special adhesives or techniques that are not commonly considered? I’m looking forward to your advice and suggestions that go beyond just “clean and re-glue,” since I’ve already tried that several times without success.

Wow, that sounds really frustrating! I had the same problem with my HEMNES dresser! What helped me was carefully warming the delaminated areas with a hairdryer first and then applying a strong contact adhesive. It’s also very important to thoroughly clean and degrease the surface before applying the glue; otherwise, it won’t stick properly.

What I also recommend: after applying the adhesive, apply pressure using heavy books or a small board with clamps, and don’t load the area again until after 24 hours. This way, the laminate on my dresser stayed firmly attached for over a year!

Don’t give up, you can definitely fix it! 🙂

Regarding the issue of foil detachment on HEMNES furniture, it is important to understand the cause before starting any repair. It is often due to moisture, temperature fluctuations, or inadequate surface preparation.

My advice: Before applying any adhesive, completely remove all residues from the old glued surface, ideally cleaning it with isopropanol. Afterwards, a construction adhesive or a special contact adhesive for plastics can be used.

It is also important to slightly soften the foil with a hairdryer or heat gun on a low setting before firmly pressing it down.

Without these steps, the repair usually will not be durable.

I agree with the recommendation to keep the surface constantly dry and clean. Many people use all-purpose cleaners that contain emollient additives, which can later affect the adhesive.

Using isopropanol or special solvents to clean the bonding surfaces usually works wonders. For reattaching, a thin, clear-drying two-component adhesive designed specifically for films or flexible plastics is suitable.

Additionally, it is crucial to apply pressure as evenly as possible so that the film bonds properly under pressure. This can be achieved with a thin pressure roller or a rolled-up towel.

Sometimes, lightly roughening the break area can also help improve the adhesive effect.

For better clarity, I have put together a brief guide based on my own experience and research that I would recommend if the films on IKEA HEMNES furniture start to peel off:

1. Preparation:
- Carefully move the furniture to a well-ventilated workspace.
- Moisten the areas with peeling film or gently warm them with a hairdryer to make the film more flexible.

2. Cleaning:
- Carefully remove all old adhesive residues with a plastic scraper.
- Clean the surface with isopropanol or acetone to remove any grease and dirt.

3. Surface preparation:
- Alternatively, lightly sand the edge of the film with very fine sandpaper to increase adhesion.

4. Gluing:
- Apply contact adhesive thinly to both surfaces and allow to dry briefly (follow the manufacturer’s instructions).
- Then firmly press the film onto the surface with even pressure using a roller.

5. Fixing:
- Secure the furniture or film with clamps, weights, or tensioners, and avoid any stress for at least 24 hours.

6. Finishing:
- To prevent edge damage, treat the transitions if necessary with a film edge sealer or clear varnish.

If you follow these steps, peelings should be permanently fixed. If the original coated surfaces are defective, you may want to contact IKEA customer service, as there may be a warranty.

Good luck!

Clean the membrane, roughen the edges, apply contact adhesive thinly, and press firmly. Be patient and do not use until 24 hours later.