First time gluing up new rubber
Table Tennis Equipment
Last updated 6 years ago
Nick Singer Asked 6 years ago
I had no trouble getting the old rubber off, but there was a lot of old glue left behind on the blade. I suspect that the old glue is rubber cement. I scraped and sanded, and even tried using non-acetone nail polish remover. At this rate, it would take me another hour to get all the old glue off the blade. So my questions: 1. Is there a better way? 2. Do I have to remove every last bit of old glue? 3. Is it Ok if I put a couple of layers of glue on the sponge today but don’t do the last layer until tomorrow? 4. When I get that far, is it worth using a press after I roll on the newly glued rubber? Thanks so much!
Alois Rosario Answered 6 years ago
Hi Nick,
It is best to get all the glue off the blade. Then you will have a nice even surface to work with.
You can put a couple of layers on glue on today and then the other one tomorrow but it is best to do it all at the same time. A press will help if the glue isn't taking well enough.
Usually you shouldn't need a press.
Thoughts on this question
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Nick Singer Posted 6 years ago
Thanks, Alois. I was able to get all of the old glue off using pure acetone.
Rohan Keogh Posted 6 years ago
Nick, acetone is a VOC so you'll need to ensure all traces of it are gone before you glue the new rubbers on.
Also, be very gentle when rolling. If you apply much pressure at all you will stretch the rubber and it will eventually rebound (shrink). If you apply the glue correctly and don't stretch the rubber during rolling, you shouldn't need a press. Presses were mainly used when players tensioned their rubbers - not recommended these days.
My best results have been with using the roller to help lay the rubber down evenly without pressure. I sometimes sandwich the bat between 2 pieces of 25mm (1") MDF with a 2kg weight on top for around 15 mins to ensure total glue 'setting' but I haven't really noticed it making a difference.