Everything you Need to Know About Edge Banding

What Tools/Machinery is Required for Edge Banding?

Edge banding can be done both professionally and via ‘DIY’. However, for a more efficient and accurate finish, with the correct tools, materials and machinery, edge banding completed by a bespoke service can be completed to a higher standard. It can even be applied to curved edges.

Bespoke edging service providers, such as Alexander Cleghorn use state of the art machinery to provide first-class edge processing solutions across a wide range of materials. 

One of our main edge banding machinery providers are HOMAG, who provide both single and double sided edge banding machines. As a pioneer in edge banding technology, they provide us with effective solutions so that we can format our edge banding to perform with extreme accuracy and precision.

Edge Banding works by covering those raw edges of wood panels with ‘edging’. These can also be referred to as ‘edging tapes’. It is a process that involves industrial machinery that use hot-melt adhesives (hot glue) and edge banders to attach. Using industrial machinery and software, edge banding can be adapted to certain levels of thickness and widths.

With the advancement of technology and machinery over the years, edge banding machines can now allow the use of a laser to heat adhesive which is already applied to the edge banding itself. We have both types of traditional and modern technology/machinery here at Alexander Cleghorn.

What are the different types?

There are different types of edge banding used to be applied to the base material of the wood panels. These are PVC, PP, ABS, Melamine and Wood Veneer. 

1. PVC – Polymerizing Vinyl Chloride or commonly known as ‘PVC’ is one of the most common edge banding materials used within the furniture industry. PVC can be extremely durable and long-lasting.
2. PP – Polypropylene or ‘PP’ is a semi-crystalline plastic. It is commonly used for packaging as it is chlorine-free, and is used as an alternative to PVC and ABS for furniture.
3. ABS – Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene or commonly known as ‘ABS’ has very similar characteristics to PVC. However, ABS is known to be less dense, and does not include chlorine. It is also not fire retardant. (our ABS Edge Banding)
4. Melamine – Melamine Edging can come available in different wood effects and colours to create your ideal finish. It can produce a long-lasting and high-gloss finish.
5. Wood Veneer – Wood panel veneers are commonly produced by joining pieces of veneer together to create a ‘master roll’. It is commonly referred to as thin slices of wood.

Edge Banding Purposes

Edge Banding serves two different purposes; both aesthetic and functional.

Firstly, in terms of providing aesthetic appeal, edge banding can cover up the rough edges to add a glossy/matte finish such as the tops and bottoms of the panels.

Secondly, in terms of functionality, edge banding can perform some key duties to your brand new furniture. Moreover, it keeps the moisture out by sealing off the edge of the core material. It also generally improves the durability by providing impact resistance to your furniture.

With the functionality and aesthetic appeal, edge banding can be used for any type of bespoke furniture panels produced at Alexander Cleghorn. Including kitchen, bedroom, office and bathroom furniture.

It is worth considering that before purchasing a material for the edge banding that you collect a colour sample of choice. If you are seeking unique banding applications, Alexander Cleghorn can provide a range of colours that will fit your exact panel needs and requirements to get the finished look of your bespoke furniture.

Advantages of Edge Banding

Edge Banding comes with a variety of advantages, more specifically if you use a bespoke edge banding service such as Alexander Cleghorn. These advantages include:

1. Scratch Resistant
2. Easy to Install
3. Durable
4. Easy to cut, and can be shaped to the desired style
5. Offers an Unlimited choice of Finishes
6. Gives the Ideal Appearance and Finish to Furniture