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Applying vinyl to an MDF table – Do I need to treat the MDF?
Hey guys,
I know this question has been asked, but the posts seem to contradict themselves.I’ve just made myself a new worktop.
I considered doing it with safety glass, but the cost was too high, so I’ve made it with MDF I’ll then wrap it in vinyl and put a glass sheet on top to protect it.
The question is, do I need to treat the MDF?
I’ve gone through old posts, some say you don’t need to treat it, others say you do, I just wanted to confirm before I do anything.
I also need to wrap the side, which I’m guessing will need to be treated. I was thinking a watered-down PVA?
Thanks
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8 Replies
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I would say YES, you will need to treat the MDF.
Vinyl will not adhere properly to the finish of MDF, particularly the porous edges.
For long term adhesion of vinyl, you really do need a gloss finish for best performance.
Do not get me wrong, it will stick down at first and probably look good. but as the vinyl continually moves throughout changing room temperatures it will come away or curl back at edges. You may get longer from it below the glass top as the glass will keep it flat, but still… -
Thanks rob.
What’s the best treatment to treat it?
Watered down PVA or is there something else, I’m guessing I’ll have to wait for that to dry, is there something faster?
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Hi Daniel
As Robert suggests, items the edges that will become an issue rather than the flat surfaces.
A Water/PVA mix is the general choice, just making sure you knock off any nubs before applying the vinyl.
More recently, I have been using Zinsser Bullseye 123 for both sealing of walls before wallpaper, and for MDF applications before vinyl.
I find the Zinsser very effective and gives a slightly better finish to adhere to.Hope this helps
Iain
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Thanks Iain.
How do you apply it to the walls and MDF? Spray, roller, brush?
Also a quick search and I’ve found a couple, where do you get this from?
Is it ok for the edges, I understand MDF’s edged flare up with water treatments I.e watered down PVA glue
Thanks
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If you’re looking for it to go off fast, you could use sanding sealer. Either meths or cellulose based. You’ll need to be quick with the brush though as it will go off very fast. I haven’t sprayed it but I guess you could. I’ve sealed many chipboard work areas (in the days before MDF) very successfully over the years using this and it lasts well.
Neil
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Go for the Zinser Bullseye 123 over PVA…gives nearly twice as much grip in tests I’ve done.
(Also 5x the price but it works!)
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Thanks guys
Gone with the Zinsser Bullseye 123 and I intend to paint it on with s brush later this afternoon and hopefully wrap it tomorrow.
Thanks
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Hi Daniel,
Either a brush or a roller is fine. I generally use a roller on large flat surfaces.
I find the Zinsser gives a great surface key and has never had anything fail so far.
A good quality vinyl will complete the job.
Post up some pics when you’re done – Good luck
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