Preparing the substrate for soft furniture laminates

Substrate preparation is the most underestimated step when it comes to laminate furniture. The customer sees the final result, but behind it lie hours of disassembly, cleaning, checking, and fixing hidden defects. Let's start here: what do we do when we arrive at a kitchen or cabinet that needs reupholstering?

First, we analyze the condition of the surfaces: peeling paint, swelling near the sink, damaged edges, hinges that no longer hold the doors in place. A film can't "solve" structural problems such as humidity or damaged wood: in these cases, it's necessary to plan for small repairs before considering refinishing. It's an investment of time that avoids unpleasant surprises after a few months.

The second step is a deep clean using specific degreasers to completely remove kitchen grease, silicones, waxes, and residue from old polishes. We'll explain why even the slightest trace of grease can compromise the laminate's adhesion, especially on cabinet doors near stovetops and handles.

We then tackle the correction of imperfections: small chips, scratches, damaged edges. In these areas, we intervene with light filling and targeted sanding, so as to restore the surface to a sufficiently flat surface for a clean application. Unlike paint, the film is much more "read" of what's underneath, highlighting any defects if they're not addressed first.

Finally, it's important to prepare the rooms and furniture: remove handles, remove appliances when necessary, and protect floors and worktops.