The experiments described were designed to test chemical surface treatments as a technique for improving bond integrity of a treated plywood and lumber. The treatments consisted of aqueous solutions of sodium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, and tri-sodium phosphate, in 1 Normal and 3 Normal concentrations, applied by brush to plywood and lumber bonding surfaces. The effects of all treatment combinations were evaluated in terms of shear strength and wood failure in both dry and wet conditions, as well as resistance to delamination.