Loose Melamine Edging

Peeling Away

• Reheat the melamine edging to activate the hot-melt glue in those areas that the glue did not bond to the wood. This especially works for new edging applications. Loose melamine edging may simply mean that somehow the strip became disconnected from its housing along the edge. Push the melamine edging back against the edge of the wood product or back into its groove if it has a tongue-and-groove fit along the edge of the furniture or cabinetry. This may completely remedy the problem.

Adhesive Breakdown

• Loose melamine edging also signifies a breakdown in the adhesive bond between the edging strip and the wood. Purchase melamine adhesive – formulated for the bond between the wood and the plastic – and apply it to the weak areas along the melamine strip. Pull out the whole strip if the problem covers most of the edging. Scrape away the old glue residue and follow the application instructions for the new melamine glue. Apply the glue evenly along the strip to prevent gaps in the bond.

Chipped Edges

• Damaged composite wood pieces cause problems for the melamine edging. A chipped corner or a broken edge leaves the melamine edging without a surface to bond to. For this problem, use wood glue to bind the broken pieces together or use a composite wood repair kit that rebuilds the missing wood edge as it dries and hardens. Apply the adhesive along the edges of the repaired section and stick the melamine edging to the edge of the wood.

Time to Replace

• Melamine edging itself breaks down over time from normal wear and tear. When none of the repair tactics work to correct the loose melamine edging, replace it. Melamine edging, which is sold in strips in several thicknesses and colors, requires matching up the old piece with a new replacement. Pull away the old melamine edging, scrape away the glue residue, and apply the new, hot-melt adhesive melamine edging with an iron. Use a different iron than the one used to iron clothes so you don't spread the adhesive residue to clothes.