Hello. I have a "would ya, should ya" question regarding banding the edges of a top in a commercial setting. We've ALWAYS banded edges first then laminated the top for everything. However, we have an opportunity to do a large number of tops (pre-cut and finished on all 4 edges) for a commercial application. All will see significant use (abuse?) and there will be some that include sinks. Price and lead times are being squeezed (surprise!). As such, I am wondering if, if, if anyone has simply purchased pre-laminated panels (1-1/8" thick), cut them and then banded (possibly 2mm or 3mm PVC) without a major failure. Yes, we have a production bander with corner rounding. Some tops will have a radius in the corners which we would have to do with a contour bander, which of course doesn't allow for much pressure to the edge. But, my main fabricator is just too slow with a hand rout and file option when we laminate after banding. Thoughts? Thanks!
From contributor La
HPL tops are laminated after banding with HPL using an automatic bander. Tops banded with 2 or 3mm PVC can be CNC cut from prelam and have survived well. What do the specs call for?
From contributor To
Thanks for responding Larry. Specs are not yet "etched in stone." I was worried that the banding being outside the top versus the hpl being over the banding left a failure point. Either the slightest edge that can "catch" or water to get in if there's a sink. Again, traditional thinking is always top over the edge (waterfall?) but is that too old school with modern glue and the pressure to be more automated and cheaper? I would much rather cut prelam (saw or CNC) then band the edge if we can.
From contributor da
You say they are going to take a beating and moisture may be an issue. In my Experience, neoprene contact is the best glue for edges there. That locks you into plam edges which locks you into decking last. I would check what warranty they are demanding. I would also do humidity tests in the area during installation if it is a significant job. Your warranty may depend on it.
