Replacing door fronts

[mikeoz22]

Can anyone provide advice pls on how to replace the front panels on cupboard doors. The main part of the door is fine but the old wooden look laminate ply is stuffed on most of the doors and needs replacing:



Cheers

Mike

[gregh]

Hi mike,

The first thing that comes to mind is this stuff from Gunnersens. It's only 2.7mm thick, but you could double up with 3mm ply to make up the thickness.
.
www.gunnersens.com.au/products/decorative-products/wallart/rezilience-wall-panelling.html

Cheers,
Oz

[Rattles]

If you replace the de-laminated ply with new ply unless you put a frame around it it will only happen again.
Maybe a better solution would be to use Shiplap pine wall paneling see image this is solid timber and can be found in 10mm thickness, you can stain and clear finish and fixed nailed and glued to the existing frames.



Rattles

[Franklin1]

G'day Mike,

I'm a bit confused about your question. Are you asking for help on how the front plywood is separated from the back frame, or are you asking what is the best product to replace the front plywood after you've separated it from the frame?

cheers,
Al.

[mikeoz22]

Thanks Al - both questions really - one how do you separate the front panels from the main door carcass, and 2 what I should use to replace the ply as its onyl aout 2mm thick - I was thinking about using craftwood/mdf as they are going to be painted anyway.

[Franklin1]

G'day Mike,

You'd need to understand how the front was attached to the back frame originally. I suspect if it's only a 2-3mm thick ply front, it would have been glued only, and no nails. You could perhaps check on that door that you've shown above in your first photo. Peel back those crappy layers of ply, and see if you can make out how the ply was bonded to the frame.

I think they were using caseine glues in those days, after a number of years of scotch glue (animal glue) being used for furniture making. There was also the Selleys 308 glues (2-part) for a waterproof bond. Depending on which type of glue they used, you might have some success pouring hot water over the glue line and waiting for the glue to soften. It won't damage the timber in the rear frame, which will dry out if you leave it for a bit. Alternatively, it might be a careful chisel job to chip the front panel off each frame.

For replacement panels, you can try mdf. I notice people on this forum using mdf for various end uses (window frames; cupboard doors). Obviously you would need to ensure it was protected against moisture getting into the timber.

Hope this helps,
cheers,
Al.