This study was undertaken in response to the many troubleshooting enquiries received from manufacturers and users of overlaid panel products as demand for and production of these products increase. In the past, Canada was without an independent laboratory for conducting overlay tests in accordance with Canadian and United States standards. During the past three years, Forintek staff have acquired the expertise and the testing equipment needed to effectively evaluate overlays in accordance with standard test procedures. Information on the various types of decorative overlays and coatings used to finish wood-based panels was summarized in terms of properties, adhesives used, and typical applications. A computer and a hard copy file database was developed from information gathered from the literature, from visits to mills and other facilities, and from discussions with industry representatives and other colleagues. A dedicated Overlay Testing Laboratory was established at Forintek with all the necessary test equipment and with displays of the reference standards and overlay and edgebanding materials. Three particleboard manufacturers provided Forintek with samples overlaid with melamine-impregnated paper for evaluation in accordance with standard test procedures. Two common problems with which Forintek has been successful in providing guidance to the industry are described.