My dilemma is I took on a job to cover a powder coated aluminum spiral stair with recessed pans for the tread that will require me to glue plywood to the fresh powder coated surfaces. Then I have to apply my finished solid wood treads to the plywood. I know what to use for the bond with the solid wood to plywood. I am not sure what to use here to get a good adherence to the metal surface. Thanks in advance for any help.
From contributor Sh
How about a polyurethane sealant like 3m's 5200. I can attest to the stuff being extremely strong and it bonds wood to aluminum very well. Unless you get the fast cure it will take a few weeks to fully adhere. It also remains flexible as an added bonus. It's the go to adhesive in the houseboat industry. I would sand the powder coat off or at least scuff it up really well before applying it.
From contributor De
Shaun,
Thanks for the advise. I will look into that product.
Dennis
From contributor Ad
I would also recommend 3m 5200.
From contributor Jo
Can you mechanically fasten the plywood to the metal, then glue the solid wood to the plywood?
Depending on plywood thickness, you could counterbore holes then use self tapping screws. Quantity would be specific to the scenario. Just another thought, good luck!
From contributor De
Josh,
Unfortunately I cannot use any screws through the pan. The lip on the metal pan tread is 1 1/4" tall so I have to use two layers of 5/8" first to flush the top and then apply my white oak tread to that. I would clamp the 5/8" ply first and let it set for a couple of days and then proceed with the finish tread where I can use the same glue or maybe a really good flooring glue.
Thanks for the info, I appreciate it!
From contributor Jo
Could you powder coat pan headed self tapping screws the same color as the existing metal pan, and fasten from the bottom side into the two layers of plywood?
From contributor De
Josh,
They do not want any screws in the bottom at all. I will try the glue and let clamps set for two days and see what happens.
Thanks for all the input, I appreciate it!
From contributor Ji
Will two layers of 5/8" come close enough to the depth of the pans? Depending on what material you use, you could be 1/8" short.
From contributor Ch
Pl premium seems it sticks to just about anything.
