Using a backer veneer for the underneath of a table top. Why you need to use a backer veneer on the back side of a substrate.

Q.  "What is a good backing veneer for underneath a table top?"  "Why do I need a backing veneer?"

A. Any veneer that is similar in thickness and construction to the face veneer is suitable.  It isn't important for the backer veneer to be the same species.  It can be an inexpensive species, even with a few knots or splits in the surface.

If the face veneer is a single ply veneer, the backer veneer should be a single ply veneer of the same thickness. If the face veneer is a 2 ply veneer, the backer veneer should be a 2 ply veneer with the 2 ply construction made of similar thicknesses as the face veneer.

Why do you need a backer veneer?  For stability.  When you apply veneer to a surface, it introduces stresses that can warp or crack the substrate or the face veneer.  When you mount a backer veneer to the reverse side of the substrate, the stresses are evened out, which mitigates any possible warping or cracking of the substrate or the face veneer.

Having said that, oftentimes, people don't go by the rules -- they don't use a backer veneer - and - quite often, they get away with it (especially if the substrate is secured and mounted down).  But, breaking the rules is risky..........  There's no sense in taking the chance of a bad outcome by cutting corners and ignoring the proper veneering techniques.

Bob Morgan,

Veneer Factory Outlet

Wood Veneer Factory Outlet