How do you remove wood that is attached by glue?

Question

I have an old buffet hutch from the 20/30's that has 2 large curved legs attached to the straight legs of the buffett, glued I assume. What is the best way to remove these without damaging the wood behind it too bad.

Answer 1

a pic would help your description, they may help steady/brace the legs

but a lot of wood glues are actually stronger than the wood itself - when a glued joint breaks it generally the wood breaking next to the glue and not the glue letting go



having said that, to get it removed cleanly I would look at sawing it off with a fine tooth hand saw - either way you will need to sand and refinish the area - I would not be surprised if you found some mortise and tenon joinery or at least dowels under the cut though especially if its not mechanically fastened

Answer 2

From the age of the hutch the glue was possibly a water soluble type but using water will distort the wood legs and the possibly damage the hutch. That being the problem I would consult one of your local woodworking shops that does antique restoration. Fine wood working is as much an art as a skill and the old craftsman are more ikely in the shop than on Answers.

Answer 3

Finish up with very fine wet r dry sandpapr like 8090 grit to finish, then Pledge.

Answer 4

Get some acetone. You can either use nail polish remover, preferably clear and unscented, or buy pure acetone at a hardware store, where it typically comes in a 1-gallon can.



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Answer 5

I recommend using a Heat Gun......

a hair dryer might work....

BUT

it is always easier with the right tools