How to fix shelf trim peeling off?

[Jay_11]

Hi all,

The white PVC front edge trim on our long bathroom shelf has started to peel. From the left, the first section is still firmly attached, then about 40–50 cm has lifted (sprung away from the particleboard edge), and the rest of the trim is still sticking well (it's firm and springy).

 

I’d love the easiest, most budget-friendly fix that will last in a steamy bathroom, without having to take the whole shelf down.

I’m leaning toward injecting a thin bead of Selleys 300g Clear Wet Area Silicone under the loose section, pressing it back, then holding it with painter’s tape + a few small spring clamps for 24 hrs.

Does that sound like the best long-term solution, or is there something even simpler and more permanent that you’d recommend?

Thanks heaps in advance!

[AlanM52]

Hi @Jay_11,

Yep... that will work and you could also use PVA glue.

Cheers

[JacobZ]

Hi @Jay_11,

As @AlanM52 has already mentioned, yes, your solution would work.

He has also mentioned PVA glue , which is the other option I would recommend for an adhesive in this application. Personally, I would use PVA glue over the silicone. PVA is about the best glue you can use for bonding things to timber, so it would be perfect for this application.

The other option is to remove the melamine strip altogether and replace it with a new strip of iron-on melamine. You would just need to cut it to length, then use an iron to activate the heat-activated glue that bonds it to the surface beneath. If there is any excess melamine due to a difference in the thickness of your shelf, you can trim it with a utility knife, ensuring you wear gloves to protect yourself from lacerations.

Let me know what you think and if you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob

[Jay_11]

Thanks @AlanM52 and @Jacob

Appreciate the confirmation and advice.

I might go with the PVA route which I'll head to Bunnings to buy some. Maybe i'll use some cotton buds to get the PVA glue in since it's a narrow gap and some small clamps to hold it down 

[JacobZ]

Hi @Jay_11,

That sounds like a solid plan.

Let us know how you go.

Jacob