Unlike solid wood or plywood furniture, MDF furniture is not very strong and durable but is resistant to termites. It has to be handled with care. In case it gets damaged, it is difficult to repair it. Note that the drawers of MDF furniture cannot hold excess weight.
As mentioned earlier, the only other time we would not recommend using MDF in baseboard applications is in high moisture areas like bathrooms. Even if water isn't directly falling onto it, MDF can slowly absorb moisture in bathrooms where 45 minute steam showers are happening more often than not.
When baseboard made of medium-density fiberboard sustains water damage, your best solution is to replace it. However, if the damage is not significant, you can attempt repair. MDF in its undefiled manufactured state is stable and consistent. When it gets wet, it swells and distorts.
Medium density fiberboard (MDF) performs much better than real wood in at least some areas. It is a composite material of high quality. MDF is made from resin and recycled wood fibers. It is pressed to produce dense sheets that remain stable in all weather conditions.
MDF is a high grade, composite material. It is made from recycled wood fibers and resin. It is dried and pressed to produce dense, stable sheets. Because of this process, MDF does not warp or crack like wood.
It should be noted that whichever method you use, MDF is moisture-resistant, not water-resistant, nor waterproof, and is still prone to swelling and warping if in direct contact with the elements.
MDF (medium-density fiberboard) is inexpensive, durable, and a good choice for many woodworking and carpentry projects.
Formaldehyde is an integral part of the adhesive used to bond together the wood fibres which form MDF panels. At extreme concentrations, formaldehyde is known to cause some serious health problems but there is no health risk from the amount of formaldehyde gas given off by MDF.
Although MDF is stronger, it is more difficult to repair if dents or marks are made on the material. Finger jointed pine is slightly more expensive than MDF. As it is a natural timber material, it is softer than MDF and can be more susceptible to marks.
MDF can remain in proper condition for up to 10 years. Particle-boards can last for up to 25 years. Costlier than particle-board. Cheaper.
They won't eat the MDF. MDF is artificial wood that is made by attaching layers of pulpwood with glue. MDF is used to make trims around your doors or windows inside your home. The glue used in making the MDF can also act as a repellant for termites.
As MDF is full of potentially toxic chemicals, such as formaldehyde and VOCs, MDF furniture is not a safe choice. The best option is solid wood furniture with a natural finish.
Under current legislation softwood dust, hardwood dust and formaldehyde are considered to be hazardous to health. Both softwood and hardwood dusts are known to be respiratory sensitisers and may cause asthma and other respiratory problems.
Highly versatile, MDF can be used for a number of different purposes including kitchen and bathroom furniture and window sills. It has a very consistent structure, which means any cut edges appear smooth and reduces the risk of splintering.
Seal MDF Edges Which Are the Most Absorbent
You can use an acrylic paint sealer or drywall sealer, or you can use glue or oil based primers which will help prevent the edges from swelling. Use whichever primer will dry fastest in your particular humidity.
Water damaged MDF is evident by its bubbles, so sanding it down so that the material is even and smooth is critical. You can choose to do this step either by hand or with an electric sander. Selecting a medium-fine grit, around 100 or 120, is a safe bet.
Medium density fiberboard (MDF) is used in a variety of ways, but the most common are the construction of furniture items such as cupboards and stereo cabinets. Like most building materials, MDF is vulnerable to mold growth if it is exposed to too much dampness and not enough sunlight.
With so many pieces made of MDF, it follows that they will eventually wear down and become chipped, dingy, or just dated-looking. Fortunately, you can paint MDF and bring these pieces back to life. You can even build new cabinets, shelves, and furniture from MDF and paint them—resulting in a smooth, glass-like finish.
Using MDF for your kitchen cabinets is a good idea
Using MDF for kitchen cabinets or kitchen cabinet doors combined with solid wood casings is a good idea. Not only is MDF an affordable option but it is durable and doesn't warp. It can be finished in a variety of ways from painting to staining and varnishing.
When it comes to strength, plywood is the winner.
MDF is a softer material than plywood and tends to sag or split under pressure. That's why it's important to reinforce it if you're going to using it to build shelves or other weight-bearing furniture.
MDF panels hold screws as well as most natural woods, but drill a pilot hole first. You also can join this wood composite with spiral grooved dowels, coated staples, and ring shank nails.
Around the 5-7 year point, an MDF kitchen will exhibit significant age and wear signs. Although an MDF kitchen may be a less expensive option for a quick refresh, read on if you want something that will last!