Applying contact cement to laminate work can be a messy proposition. Here’s how I keep it under control. I cut the top off of a square 5-gal. can (the kind used for some solvents), and attach a hinged lid and a wood apron, as shown in the drawing above right. The apron stiffens the cut end of the can, and it’s important to include the small strips of wood that act as lips for the lid, otherwise the inevitable drips will glue the lid shut. Because the lips meet with such a small surface area, it’s easy to pry them apart.
I use a roller to apply the cement because it allows me to spread it quickly and evenly. The flat inner sides of this glue bucket provide a surface to roll off the excess glue if necessary. I use a special roller cover (available from most laminate dealers) that resists the deteriorating effects of the glue solvents. I find that as long as the glue in the bucket covers the roller, and it isn’t allowed to dry out, I can keep the roller in the bucket indefinitely.
—Jim Fish, Dale, TX
Edited and illustrated by Charles Miller
From Fine Homebuilding #55
