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  for Metal Finishing since 1989
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Copper bar top, need adhesive

We are covering 3/4 inch plywood w/ thin copper sheeting for a bar top. Does anyone out there know an adhesive we may use between the copper and the wood? We can't find anything, please help soon.

Russell Cotton
- Louisville, Kentucky
2002

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Russell, you've got more of a woodworking question than anything. When I've done copper tops I use white glue and my vacuum press, just like any other lamination. I know some folks who have used contact cement, but I'm not a fan of contact cement for veneering (too messy, too unstable). There are a number of excellent forums out there for wood veneering advice, I suggest checking them for more info.

Good luck,

Carson Maddox
- Chicago, Illinois
2002

I am doing the exact same thing, all I did was warm up some subfloor glue (available anywhere) in front of a heater, so it would spread easier. Then I used a trowel with ridges (like the kind used to put tile down) and simply spread it evenly on the wood. Afterwards, I used a dough roller from my kitchen to make sure the copper got pushed down tight without any air bubbles. I've had it for two years now and haven't had any problems.

Michael Sean
- IF, Idaho
2005

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Q. When you installed the copper top did you have to treat or protect it in any way or did you let nature take it's course?

Rod Schwartz
- Kohler, Wisconsin
2006

We are in the process of designing a bar with a copper top for our rec room. After looking at countless pictures, we have not found one that has a copper top. If anyone has any pictures that they could share with us we would appreciate it.

Otto Kraft
remodeling - Erie, Pennsylvania
2007

I am having the same problem but it appears only when using the top size more than 48 inches dia. Bubbles appear on the surface. I assume that I should go for some stronger adhesives. Help me if somebody has a solution to this problem.

Ali Zain, Syed
- Wah Cantt, Pakistan
2007

Check out Stubenrauch Design

Janet Volpe
- Schofield, Wisconsin
March 1, 2010

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I have been using contact cement (oil based) to adhere copper to wood or MDF for many years including bar tops. It works great on thin 5 mil copper. You can also use a commercial floor adhesive. It provides a very strong bond.

Don Angelo
Spring Hill, Tennessee
March 11, 2010