The Bottom Line: 

• What is Edgebanding? Edgebanding covers up the unattractive edges of boards made from materials like particleboard or MDF, making them look clean and protecting them from damage. 
• Types of edgebanding include real wood veneer, plastic (PVC), and melamine. There are other options, but we will cover these. 
• Edgebanding comes in different thicknesses. Thin ones are good for a sleek look, medium ones are versatile, and thick ones offer extra protection for heavy use. 
• Zero-joint edgebanding technology allows for edgebanding that merges perfectly with the board, leaving no gaps or visible lines for a super clean look. 
• Tips for Success: Start simple, use tape if you don’t have expensive clamps to hold edgebanding in place, keep your glue and materials at a comfy room temperature, clean your tools regularly, and always choose high quality edgebanding for the best finish. 

When woodworkers started using MDF in place of the pricier solid wood, we all hit the same snag: how to hide those ugly edges. And it's not just about looks, because those rough edges can chip, let in moisture, and before you know it, your hard work starts to fall apart. 

Lituo supply professional and honest service.

Edgebanding gives manufactured sheets that finished look we are all looking for. But getting it's got to be just right, or it'll stick out like a sore thumb. You've probably noticed how even the smallest mistake can make a big difference. Once you see a gap or a bit of glue that shouldn't be there, you can't unsee it.  

We all want our work to look as perfect as possible, not just for our own satisfaction, but because the folks we're making it for expect nothing less. 

So, whether you're wondering what materials to choose, about the best adhesive to use, or just looking for some pointers to up your game, let’s talk about edgebanding.

Edgebanding with Hardwood Veneer 

Choosing the right edgebanding is key when it comes to fine furniture, custom cabinetry, or any woodworking project that demands top-notch appearance. You want to match the wood type, of course, but also the grain pattern and colour. 

Wood veneer banding comes in two types: non-glued (raw wood) or pre-glued. Prefinished has a sealer and topcoat already applied, which can save you a step if you're looking to get to the finish line a bit faster.  

Craftsmen Hardwoods offers both pre-glued and non-glued veneer edgebanding. 

You can also find many species of wood banding with a thin backing, like fleece or paper, to prevent it from splitting.  

Alternatives to Veneer Edgebanding 

While veneer and solid wood are our go-to materials, there’s a whole world of colourful bands out there, including PVC and melamine.  

PVC Edgebanding 

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a budget-friendly option that's common in the furniture world. Its colour goes all the way through, which comes in handy when you're cleaning up those edges. PVC Edgebanding is suitable for all straight-line and contour edgebanding applications.  

When you think of PVC, black or white are probably the colours that come to mind. However, PVC edgebanding is available in a huge variety of colors and textures. Look at our Benjamin Moore colour match collection—you’ll find everything from teal to navy to olive. We also have paintable PVC edgebanding which you can spray or hand-paint to match your finished piece.   

Edgebanding Thickness 

Edgebanding is available in a wide range of thicknesses, from as thin as 0.4mm (about 0.02 in) to as thick as 3mm (about 0.12 in) or more. Choosing the right thickness depends on the project's specific requirements and the intended outcome. Here are the general guidelines. 

• Thin Edgebanding (0.4mm to 1mm): This is the most commonly used size range and the go-to when you’re aiming for that sleek, almost invisible edge. It’s perfect for furniture that’s all about finesse or if you’re shooting for that minimalist vibe. Plus, it’s flexible, bending around curves without putting up a fight. 
• Medium Edgebanding (1mm to 2mm): This is your middle-of-the-road option that does a bit of everything. It's got enough muscle to protect the edges of your project but keeps things looking sharp. For most furniture and cabinetry work, this is your sweet spot. It’s reliable and versatile. 
• Thick Edgebanding (2mm and above): This is what you want when you’re building something that needs to stand up to a beating. Commercial settings, high-use furniture – thick edgebanding has got it covered. It’s great for hiding those not-so-perfect edges too. The trade-off is that it’s a bit stiffer and more noticeable. 

It’s also important to consider the material of the substrate, the type of edgebanding application (straight, curved, post-formed), and the desired look and design of the project. Sometimes, going thicker gives you that extra durability and hides the rough spots, but it can also change the feel and look of your piece. 

Making It Stick 

Whether you're sticking with the tried-and-true or looking for the cutting edge, knowing your options can make all the difference in your edgebanding projects. 

Edgebanding Adhesives 

Whether you're working out of a garage or running a full-scale shop, the basics of sticking edgebanding to your projects pretty much stay the same. You're mainly looking at a few types of hot-melt glue: ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyurethane (PUR), and amorphous polyolefin (APO).  

• EVA works a lot like the white and yellow wood glues we've all used, except it's heat-activated. This means it sets faster than those water-based glues we're used to, but it's not without its downsides. EVA creates a mechanical bond, which is strong but can re-melt under heat, something to think about depending on where your project will live. 
• PUR is newer and pricier but gaining in popularity. PUR grabs onto your edgebanding and the substrate fast, creating a solid layer in seconds. Over the next couple of days, it reacts with the moisture in the air to form a super-strong, chemical bond. This bond is tough against heat and moisture, making it perfect for places like bathrooms and kitchens. Plus, it's less visible and doesn't re-melt, keeping your edges looking sharp and clean. 
• APO is like EVA but doesn't handle heat or chemicals well. Where it shines is in customization, as you can adjust its hardness, stickiness, and curing time, making it great for working with paper and fabric. 

Zero-Joint Edgebanding 

The bane of any edgebanding job is that visible glue line that seems to attract dirt like a magnet. Zero-joint technology offers a solution.  

Zero-joint edgebanding uses a pre-applied polymer layer that bonds to your board without traditional glue. Whether it's activated by laser, hot air, or NIR, this method melts the functional layer and fuses the edgeband directly to the board. Suddenly, you've got a seamless surface that looks like one piece, with no glue lines in sight.  

Edgebanding Tips 

Let's talk shop and dive into some edgebanding tips. 

1. Start Small 

If you're new to the edgebanding world, don't feel like you have to go all out with a fancy machine right off the bat. Iron-on/preglued edge tape is a great starting point. From there, you can try a portable edgebander. 

As you gain experience and tackle more edgebanding projects, you might consider leveling up to a machine that doesn't just apply the band but also trims, softens edges, and even integrates with a CNC setup for a slick, almost hands-off operation. 

Once you've got a couple of projects under your belt, you might consider leveling up to a machine that doesn't just apply the band but also trims, softens edges, and even integrates with a CNC setup for a slick, almost hands-off operation. 

2. Save on Edge Clamps 

For those of you working with solid wood edgebanding, you know the struggle of keeping it in place while the glue sets. Edge clamps can get pricey, and sometimes brad nails just aren't an option.  

Grab some masking tape. Stretching a 4″ to 5″ piece over the edge every few inches can give you enough clamping pressure to secure that banding nicely, saving you from spending a small fortune on clamps. 

3. Watch the Temperature 

Glue-line failures are often down to not using enough glue, using glue that's too cold, or working in a space that's too chilly. The fix? Keep your glue and edgebanding in a spot that's warm, but not hot, to ensure everything bonds like it should. 

4. Keep It Clean 

Using an automatic or semi-automatic edge-bander? Keeping your machine clean is important. After you've got the bearings and cutters clean, consider using a product designed to prevent glue build-up. It's a simple step that can save you from a world of frustration by keeping those jams at bay. 

5. Use Quality Edgebanding 

Don't skimp on the quality of your edgebanding. High-quality materials make a big difference in the result. We've got you covered with wood veneer, PVC, and melamine options. Whether you're aiming for a custom look or a perfect match with your panel material, going for the good stuff will help you achieve the finish you're after. 

Final Thoughts 

We've covered the importance of choosing the right materials, whether you're leaning towards the natural warmth of hardwood or exploring the versatility of alternatives like PVC and shared some practical tips and tricks to help you tackle common challenges. However, we understand you may still have questions. 

Edge banding: All you need to know & its benefits

Edge banding: All you need to know & its benefits

What is Edge Banding and its uses?

The process of sealing the raw, exposed edges of wood panels with lipping is called edge banding. Edge banding or edging has wide use in furniture making process; thus, making lipping is one of the critical sorts for materials for the furniture sector. Edge banding is also commonly used in carpentry as an end process to tidy up rough edges and ensure that the finished product is durable and constructed to a high standard.

If you have observed furniture being made, you might have noticed that the wood panels have a raw, exposed edge when cut to size. If left unprotected, this natural edge can pose severe problems for the furniture. The exposed edges of the wood panel allow moisture to seep in, making them warp and become uneven or swell, significantly reducing the furniture’s life span. It is also very damaging to appearance.

So, edge banding was created to address the problem. Edge banding protects the wooden panels in your furniture from moisture, thus reducing the effects of atmospheric humidity and liquid spills.

For more Thin PVC Edge Bandinginformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

What is lipping or edge band?

Typically, a lipping or edge band is a thin tape of impermeable PVC, acrylic, or ABS material cut to fit the size of wood-based panel materials such as plywood, particleboard, or MDF. The lipping is then applied to the exposed edge using a strong adhesive. Commercially, edge banding is completed using industry-grade machines called edge banders and a hot-melt adhesive. For flatpack and modular furniture, the material used is mostly PVC, which is easy to fix and has a long life.

Lipping can be sourced in 200 metres rolls, and the thickness of the tape may vary. The width will also be quite different, depending upon the requirement of the customer. At Meru Timber, edge banding is available in various thickness ranges ranging from 0.45mm, 1mm, and even beyond that. 

Thicker lipping is used in high-traffic and commercial settings because it provides greater resilience and impact resistance. For example, doors and drawer fronts may require a thicker 1mm PVC lipping for maximum impact resistance. Typically, a lipping or edge band is a thin tape of impermeable PVC, acrylic, or ABS material cut to fit the size of a wood panel. The lipping is then applied to the exposed edge using a strong adhesive.

How Does Edge Banding Protect The Furniture?

Modular furniture is made using wood-based panels. As such, the wood is handled and made resistant to moisture by treatments. Nevertheless, wood has a natural inclination to absorb moisture. This trend cannot be eradicated – it can only be reduced. The lipping protects the wooden panels in your furniture from moisture, therefore reducing the effects of atmospheric humidity and liquid spills. That means that the strength and durability of the wood increase. So, the next time you spill the tea on your table and it drips down the edge, thank the edge banding for protecting the wood.

Notably, edge banding serves both functional and aesthetic purposes. Functionally, lipping performs some essential duties for your furniture. First, it holds moisture out, serving as a de facto seal on the edge of the core material. Second, edge banding increases strength and resilience by providing shock protection. Aesthetically, edge banding covers unsightly rough edges and creates a glossy finish to match your tops and sides. You can also develop radial edges to soften sharp angles.

Are There Different Lipping For Different Materials?

There are various edge banding materials available on the market. Edge band tape can be made from PVC, ABS acrylic, PP, PMMA, PET, Laser, wood or wood veneer. But, we will focus on two common materials: PVC and ABS. PVC is the most popular material for edge banding. 

PVC- PVC edge banding

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) lipping materials are made from thermoplastic gum and are soft and long-lasting. PVC lipping is most popular in the construction of Laminated And Melamine cabinets and furniture. PVC Lipping is noted for its wide variety of colour matches to Laminate and Melamine board manufacturers. With Europe-style modular cabinets on the rise, it is not uncommon to see cabinets with glossy or colourful finishes. Pigments and other materials are added to produce ostensibly endless edge banding colours, textures and natural wood grains. You are assured of finding a match once you choose your Board laminate!

PVC Edge bands or lipping

PVC edge banding is very popular for modular furniture. It is incredibly durable, simple to fix, and has an extremely long life. Therefore, the PVC edge band is the most preferred edge band model. The material is impermeable, which means that it significantly reduces water absorption.

Furthermore, modular furniture comes in a much wider variety of colours and shades than the possibilities available with real natural wood. PVC lipping can be produced to resemble your modular panel’s exact shade and finish, thus creating a seamless look. Also, PVC is easier to use on curved surfaces than natural wood bands.

So, in essence, the main reasons that PVC is such a popular choice for edge banding are:

• It is inexpensive;
• PVC is durable;
• It Boasts a long life; and
• It doesn't require any finishing process;

Cons for the use of PVC:

• You can't recycle it;
• It doesn't biodegrade;
• Once it's blemished; and
• You can't refinish it.

ABS Edge bands or lipping

ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) shares most PVC characteristics, but ABS is lower in density and does not include chlorine in its composition. Edge bands made of ABS are eco-friendly, recyclable and thermally resilient, meaning they are safe to incinerate. Lipping made of these materials are available in various colours, finishes and textures, offering you the versatility to pick a colour that best resembles your interior.

Finding the Perfect Edge banding

Whether you are a Fundi or DIY hobbyist looking for a quality edge, banding can require extra effort to achieve the look and value of your furniture. That is why you should seek professionals for their expertise and guidance in selecting the correct width, thickness, and colour shed.

There are a variety of lipping tapes available in the market, from pre-glued ones to 3D acrylic tapes: 

• The thickness of – 0.45mm, 1mm (Recommended), 2mm and 3mmm
• Board thickness – 22mm, 27mm, 45mm, 54mm and 60mm
• Materials – Solid colours like – White, Light Grey, Dark Grey, Red, Green, e.t.c
• Materials – Wood Grain Colours – African Wenge Esperanza Oak, Cherry, Zalzach Beech e.t.c

Edge Banding at Meru Timber

We at Meru Timber can assist you with making those critical selections! We use top-quality, commercially available lipping with 90 different colours currently in stock. Additionally, we offer a diverse range of finishes and patterns to choose from – You name it; we have got you covered. And, if it’s pre-finished you’re looking for, we’ve got that too! The consistency of our products speaks for itself, and we are eager for you to notice our quality. Our PVC lipping materials are designed to match current popular melamine boards such as Timsales, Comply, PG Bison and Rai plywood. We aim to offer a one-stop shop and make your life easy…

Your Cost Considerations

Generally speaking, we recommend PVC lipping for projects where budget is the primary factor. That is not to say there is anything wrong with this material—far from it. There are just fewer levels in the production process, and the raw material is less costly. We consider this a premium solution with more steps required in the production process.

 Using the right lipping for a particular material is essential to ensuring strength, durability, and precision. We recommend 1mm lipping for PVC because it runs cleaner, faster, and with superior adhesion. Thus, an added benefit is a smooth radius and nice, soft-looking furniture. 

Pro Tip In general, we avoid 0.45 mm edging because the corners tend to be too sharp. Thin 0.45mm lipping is suitable for drawer boxes and light use edges. 1mm and 2mm are ideal for door edges and countertop edges or anywhere you will get heavy use. Countertop edges are well suited to a 3mm product as it is very resistant to abuse.  For cabinets and wardrobes in low-use areas, such as a home office, 0.45mm edging tape is adopted to be cost-effective while being long-lasting. For frequently used rooms, like kitchens and bathrooms, 1mm thick edging tape is recommended to better protect your cabinets from frequent use. Finally, 3mm edge banding is used for commercial jobs, where strength and longevity are a must.

EDGE BANDING WITH HOT MELT ADHESIVE

Edging adhesive, also known as hot-melt glue, is a thermoplastic adhesive. A suitable adhesive is essential to ensure that your edge banding goes on and stays on and that you don’t make a mess of your project. However, using the wrong glue in the wrong way could spell disaster! 

We choose to use a hot melt glue for our adhesive solution because it’s user-friendly and provides an excellent seal. We apply the glue to the edge while still hot and then use the banding, pressing it to the side.

The two main hot-melt glue choices are EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) and PUR (Polyurethane). Each has advantages and disadvantages, depending on your project and the material you are working with.

• EVA Adhesive. EVA adhesive is a multipurpose hot melt glue used in various applications. It is suitable for all edge banding, including PVC, Melamine, ABS, Acrylic, and wood veneer. It’s the most affordable end of the market, has fairly standard water and heat resistance, and is easy to work with and clear up after.
• PUR adhesive. Polyurethane (PUR)- based hot melt glue hardens when dry and cannot be remelted. It forms a powerful bond quickly, leaving little room for mistakes and the need to work fast. Some can set in seconds; the full cure time is 24 hours.

Machinery is used in the process of Edge Banding

The machine that is used for this process is called an edge bander. The Edge bander machine applies the lipping to the raw edges of the wood panels with hot-melt glue. Edge banding machines can process lipping up to 3 mm thick and up to 50 mm wide. The ends are trimmed flush and bent to cover the wood and do not have any sharp corners at the edges. Any excess adhesive is scraped off, and the finished edge is buffed to give a perfect, seamless finish.

At Meru Timber, we use State-of-the-art machinery that improves the glue edge and squares it up perfectly. One of them is Casadei Edge banding machines – Italian technology and another Industrial edge banding machine from Europe, Capable of grooving and corner rounding. 

Additionally, we’ve invested in top-of-the-line Cutting Optimization software to calculate and determine the linear Metres of lipping required for your entire Project.  

When generating your cutting list, there is no need to subtract edge banding thickness; our software will automatically provide you with the finished size.

The size of the part is automatically adjusted to accommodate the thickness of the lipping.

Learn how to manage your cutting list successfully on Meru Timber’s online cutting list platform. Then, with a single click of a button, you can get the quantity of edge banding material required for your entire Kitchen or wardrobe project!

A Quick start video on how to us Meru Timber cutting list platform is as below. Remember, its absolute Free to use our online cutting list platform!

A local carpenter/in-house fundus may not have the capacity and know-how within their reach. That’s why there is a distinction between commercial modular and carpentry edge banding. 

Videos: Edge Banding Basics

Here is a video to help you visualize the process on an industrial scale. Using a fully automated machine for excellent flexibility and easy adjustment reduces production time and gives the best output.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website PVC Edge Banding for MDF.