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What is MDF – Ply Online’s Guide

MDF material samples on the table

Ply Online Admin |

MDF is an abbreviation of ‘medium-density fibreboard’. It is made from fine timber chips. It is usually produced in the form of smooth-surfaced panels, sheets, or strips.

Products created from wood-plastic materials are a smart and less expensive alternative to natural wood. MDF panels and boards have become widely popular in this field, because sometimes MDF panels can even be more practical than solid wood. The reason for their popularity lies in the quality characteristics and properties of the material. Let's dive deep in the understanding of what is MDF, explore its pros and cons, and how these panels differ from plywood.

Technical Characteristics of Medium-Density Fibreboard

A distinctive feature of the material is its flexibility, allowing for decorative use in finishing and other types of work.

Standards established for this material must be strictly followed during production. The optimal density of MDF ranges from 720 to 980 kg/m³. Based on this parameter, two types of MDF exist:

  • HDF (High Density Fibreboard): density starting from 800 kg/m³.
  • LDF (Low Density Fibreboard): density up to 600 kg/m³.

 

MDF is also classified by its quality into three grades:

  • Grade I: Completely homogeneous boards without any possible defects.
  • Grade II: Minor scratches, chips, and other small imperfections may be present.
  • Grade III: Material with visually noticeable defects.

 

Grade I products are used for finishing work, while Grade III is reserved for rough construction.

MDF Thickness

MDF panels come in various thicknesses, which often determine their possible area of application.

  • 3-6 mm are often used for packaging, drawers’ bottoms and backing for cabinets.
  • 8-10 mm are typically used in the production of wardrobe doors and other furniture elements.
  • 16-19 mm are commonly used for cabinet fronts, especially in kitchens.
  • 16-30 mm is suitable for countertops and cornices.
  • 25 to 60 mm are used for interior doors, chair and armchair components, staircases, and other high-strength products.

 

Panel Formats

It's worth mentioning the various formats in which MDF panels are available in the Australian market. For ceiling finishes, MDF can be purchased in strips up to 3 meters long and 25 centimetres wide. These panels usually feature a locking mechanism that simplifies the installation process.

MDF panels installed on a frame are a cosy solution for walls. In furniture production, MDF is typically used in sheet form.

MDF material coatings

MDF lacks unique external characteristics, so it often undergoes additional finishing at the final stage. Here are the most common options:

Veneering

Veneering involves covering MDF panels with a thin layer of real timber. This enriches the products with an authentic appearance while also increases the material's resistance to moisture and other factors.

Stone Veneering

A very thin layer of natural-based stone is attached to the surface of the panels. MDF products with this type of covering exhibit increased resistance to mechanical damage.

Plastic or Acrylic Coating

This cost-effective option allows displaying a wide range of colour choices. Panels coated with acrylic or plastic provide a modern and stylish finish.

PVC Film Coating

This method offers a variety of textures, patterns, and colours. Panels covered with film are also known to as ‘laminated’. This technology increases the MDF's resistance to moisture, dirt, and cleaning agents.

Painting over MDF

Painting provides additional protection for the panels. Different enamels, varnishes, and other coatings can be used to enhance aesthetics and durability.

Pros and Cons of MDF material

Pros:

  • Sustainability: Typically, MDF sheets are made from the timber sawdust and leftovers from timber milling.
  • Resistance to Mould and Pests: The production process reduces the risk of mould and pest damage.
  • Durability: MDF is a long-lasting product, given it is used in dry conditions and does not carry substantial load.
  • Wide Variety of Finishes: There are numerous options for panel appearances. MDF can be impregnated with various pigments (red, blue, yellow etc.) and fire-retardant agents.

Cons:

  • Low Resistance to Moisture: Standard types of MDF are typically not recommended for the outdoor use.
  • Low Strength in Thinner Sheets: The thinnest MDF sheets have lower durability.
  • Low Screw Withdrawal Force: Poor screw holding capacity. If the furniture parts were joined together, then chances to dismantle and re-assemble it again are very low.
  • Low Vibration Tolerance: MDF is not designed to tolerate vibration caused by movement or sound.