What Is MDF?
MDF Full Name: Medium-Density Fiberboard
The Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF) is a designed wood product formed from wood fibers obtained by breaking wood and softwood with a defibrillator.
The wood fibers are then glued using wax and resin adhesive. They are transformed into panels, applying high temperature and pressure. The resulting smooth wood product has no wood grain and shares many characteristics with particle boards. However, MDF is slightly stronger particleboard.
MDF is a designed wood composite that is similar to the particleboard but is much denser and stronger than the particleboard.
Imagine if all the sawdust has been removed from other wood product manufacturing processes and then the sawdust has been mixed with binders and pressed into large plywood-sized sheets.
Okay, this is very simplified, and it is not exactly the process they use to manufacture MDF, but it gives an idea of the composition of the product.
Because it is composed of such small wood fibers, there is no wood grain in the MDF. And because it is pressed so hard at such high temperatures, there are no gaps in the MDF like those found in the particleboard.
Here you can see the visible difference between the chipboard and the MDF, with the MDF at the top and the chipboard at the bottom.
Advantages of MDF
MDF is generally cheaper than plywood. The MDF surface is very smooth and you don’t have to worry about knots on the surface.
Because it is so smooth, it is a great surface for painting. I recommend the first conditioning with a quality oil-based primer. (Do not spray the aerosol primers on the MDF! It simply absorbs and is a huge waste of time and money. It will also scratch the )
Also due to its smoothness, MDF is a great substrate for the veneer. MDF is very consistent, so the cut edges look smooth and free from gaps or splinters
Due to the smooth edges, you can use a router to create decorative edges. The consistency and smoothness of the MDF allow for easy cutting of detailed designs (such as a roll or cut designs) using a scroll saw, band saw or jigsaw.
Disadvantages of MDF
MDF basically glorified the cluster.
Like the chipboard panel, MDF absorbs water and other liquids like a sponge and swells, unless it is well sealed on all sides and edges with primer, paint or other sealing product. Again, I recommend a quality oil-based primer. No aerosol primers!
As it consists of fine particles, MDF does not hold the screws very well and it is very easy to remove the screw holes.
Because it is so dense, MDF is very heavy. This can make work difficult, especially if you don’t have a helper who can help you lift and cut the large leaves.
MDF cannot be stained. Not only does it absorb the stain like a sponge, but also because there is no wood grain in the MDF, it looks horrible when it is stained. (Sort of like a particle stain. Why would you bother?)
MDF contains VOC (urea-formaldehyde). Gas removal can be greatly minimized (but probably not eliminated) if the MDF is encapsulated with primer, paint, etc.
but care must be taken when cutting and sanding to avoid inhaling the particles. I recommend cutting and sanding while using a particle mask.
What Is Plywood?
Plywood is made from debarked logs. The thin layers are peeled from the wooden logs, rotating them along their horizontal axis.
The veneer sheets obtained from this process are cut to the desired dimensions, dried, patched, glued and then cooked in a press at 140 ° C (284 ° F) and 1.9 MPa (280 psi) to form a plywood panel.
Depending on the type of plywood, it may or may not be smooth and useful for visually pleasing the internal pieces of wood. Some types of plywood can be stained and made to look good for kitchen cabinets.
Plywood is also a product of engineered wood that is made by pressing and gluing veneer sheets into a single solid piece.
Advantages of Plywood
As it consists of layers of wood veneer with the grains in each layer in a different direction, it is a very strong building material. It is less susceptible to water damage than MDF and does not absorb water and swells as quickly or easily as MDF.
It is sustainable, which makes it perfect for kitchen cabinets, tables and other projects where you want a large stained wood surface. It holds the screws very tightly, as the varied wood grains in each layer give the screws something to hold.
Although most plywood contains urea-formaldehyde and other VOCs, it is now possible to buy plywood without formaldehyde. Look for the Purebond brand at Home Depot.
Disadvantages of Plywood
It is more expensive than MDF. And obviously, the higher the score and the more special the wood species, the more expensive they become.
Due to the layers displayed on the edge, it is necessary to end the edges in some way. This can be done with iron bands or pieces of wood or decorative moldings.
Plywood usually splinters at the edges when cut, so it is more difficult to achieve a smooth cut with plywood than with MDF.
It is more difficult to cut detailed drawings in plywood (rolled, cut, etc.) because the edges fragment and you get edges that show layers and may have empty spaces in some
Like MDF, most plywood contains urea-formaldehyde and other VOCs that can release gas into your home. Take precautions when cutting.
MDF Vs Plywood
The plywood comes not only in different thicknesses but also in different degrees, so you can choose the right one for your project.
The lower classes are used in the construction of houses for floors and other things. Obviously, these types of plywood do not have to be beautiful, as they will be covered up.
The highest grades of plywood (grade of stain, the grade of a cabinet, etc.) are much more beautiful and smooth.
They have consistent wood grains and generally have no holes or other major imperfections. And cabinet-type plywood is always sanded very smoothly on the surface.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about MDF and Plywood:
What is the main difference between MDF and plywood?
MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) is made from wood fibers bonded with wax and resin, while plywood is made from thin layers of wood veneer glued together.
Which one is cheaper, MDF or plywood?
Generally, MDF is cheaper than plywood, but the cost can vary depending on the quality and grade of the plywood.
Can MDF be stained like plywood?
No, MDF cannot be stained effectively due to its lack of wood grain. It tends to absorb stain unevenly and may result in an unsightly finish.
Are MDF and plywood both susceptible to water damage?
MDF is more prone to water damage as it absorbs moisture like a sponge, while plywood is less susceptible due to its layered construction.
Which material is easier to work with, MDF or plywood?
MDF is generally easier to cut and shape due to its consistency and lack of wood grain. However, plywood may hold screws better and is stronger for certain applications.
Are there any health concerns associated with MDF and plywood?
Both MDF and plywood may contain VOCs (volatile organic compounds), including formaldehyde. Proper precautions, such as wearing a particle mask when cutting or sanding, should be taken to minimize exposure.
Can plywood be used for projects requiring a visually pleasing finish?
Yes, plywood can be used for aesthetically pleasing projects such as kitchen cabinets and furniture, especially higher-grade plywood with smooth surfaces and consistent wood grains.
What are some alternatives to traditional plywood and MDF?
Some alternatives include plywood without formaldehyde, such as the Purebond brand, and other engineered wood products like oriented strand board (OSB) or particleboard.
How should MDF and plywood be sealed or finished for best results?
Both MDF and plywood should be sealed on all sides and edges with a quality primer, paint, or other sealing product to prevent moisture absorption and enhance durability.
Which material is better suited for specific projects, MDF or plywood?
The choice between MDF and plywood depends on factors such as cost, strength, water resistance, and desired finish. MDF is often preferred for painting and veneering, while plywood may be better for structural applications and projects requiring a natural wood look.
