Expert: Eileen Cronk - 12/27/2007

Question
My son purchased an antique business type desk that has a badly damaged top. The top is a hard black material with an underlay of mesh fabric that is apparently glued to the desk top.  Any suggestions how he can remove this material without damaging the desk top?

Answer
Hi Dale
Nice to hear from you.
This may sound funny Dale, but the only way I know of to remove a slate top that has been glued in place is with a hammer and safety glasses.
You will just have to break it in pieces, then what doesn't come loose will need some persuasion with pressure from underneath. I would use an old wood chisel to force the pieces that don't come free after breaking.
I think I would use a good pair of leather gloves on my hands too as this can be sharp.
If you hope to find wood suitable underneath the slate to serve as the "new top" you can forget that...just won't be there.
Personally if this is a great desk I would have a new top made if the old one is damaged beyond using. Not a big deal at all.
Good Luck and good question
Regards
Eileen