MDF board: All you need to know about this engineered wood product (24 designs)

Medium Density Fibreboard (MDF) is manufactured by grinding up residual hardwood or softwood pieces into fine particles, mixing them with wax and a resin binder, and then applying high heat and pressure. It typically has more density than plywood. Despite being constructed of separated fibres, it can be utilized as a building material just like plywood. Among the numerous applications of the MDF sheets, the most popular one these days is the jali design. In addition, MDF board price depends on multiple factors like grade, finishing- laminated or veneered, thickness, etc.

It developed as a substitute for solid wood by utilizing the huge waste of wood chips and sawdust produced by lumber mills.

Large-scale mass production of MDF boards began in the 1980s. Today, these boards have become a bankable option for builders, woodworkers, and architects for the features they offer.

This article aims to shed light on the following aspects related to MDF boards:

 

 

Composition and processing of MDF boards

Medium Density Fibreboard is generally made up of 82% wood fibre, 9% urea-formaldehyde resin glue, 8% water, and 1% paraffin wax.

Its density is typically between 500 kg/m³ (31 lb/ft³) and 1,000 kg/m³ (62 lb/ft³). It is denser than other woods because of the presence of heavy resins.

This material is turned into panels by pressing it together under high temperature and high-pressure conditions, often using a defibrator.

After the formation of the board, professionals sand it down to smooth irregularities and give it a soft finish. Oil, varnishes, and paints may then be coated over the board. Moreover, the finishing sometimes requires laminates and veneers.

For better-quality boards, add more wood fibres to the container.

This forms almost the same board but with a higher density. The quality and finish of this board are also superior.

 

Also see: Plywood sheets – What you need to know about them?

 

Properties of MDF board

These boards are used by manufacturers and construction companies because they are strong, lightweight, and paintable. Furthermore, these have a consistent thickness that makes accurate cutting easier. The following are some noteworthy properties of this building material–

1. Sturdy and durable
2. Heat resistant
3. Moisture resistant
4. Termite and borer resistant
5. Smooth surface

 

Advantages of MDF board

There are several advantages of using this board-

• More flexible than other types of wood
• Used for curved surfaces because of its ability to be shaped easily
• Stable dimensions that will not expand or contract unlike natural wood
• MDF board comes at an affordable price and is less expensive than natural wood
• Consistent in strength and properties along the whole surface
• Dense, flat, and stiff
• Has no knots
• Does not exhibit an easily recognizable surface grain due to the presence of fine particles in it
• When painted it produces a smooth surface
• Since it has no grain it can be cut, drilled, machined, and filed without damaging the surface
• It can be glued with PVA wood glue
• High pull-out strength on the surface

 

Also see: Room partition designs: Your inspiration & buying guide

 

Disadvantages of MDF board

As much as there are pros to using the Medium Density Fibreboard, there are cons to it too and it’s better to be aware in order to make an informed decision-

• Low-grade MDF may swell and break when saturated with water
• Flexibility may cause it to warp or expand in humid environments, if not sealed
• May release formaldehyde, which is a known human carcinogen and may cause allergy, eye, and lung irritation when cutting and sanding
• Its cutting tools become dull easily
• Screwing into the edge of a board

 

Safety precautions

Medium Density Fibreboard can be dangerous to use if the correct safety precautions are not taken. Hence, here are some important points to remember while working with them-

• It contains a substance called urea-formaldehyde which is released by its surface while cutting or sanding the board. As a result, it becomes important to ensure proper ventilation when using it. Also, use facemasks while sanding or cutting the board with machinery.
• The dust produced when machining MDF is very dangerous. Therefore, wear masks and goggles at all times.
• The edges of MDF cutters will blunt very quickly because of the glue present in the board. Tungsten carbide-edged MDF cutter will prevent dulling.
• Screws and nails can be used on MDF. However, there is the possibility of split edges. The screws should be at a maximum distance of 25mm from the edge.
• While painting it is a good idea to coat the entire sheet, panel, or board to contain the ill effects of urea-formaldehyde.
• Wax and oil finishes are great finishing options but they don’t contain urea-formaldehyde effectively.
• Phenol-formaldehyde is a good alternative because it does not release urea-formaldehyde.

 

Types of Medium-Density Fibreboard

 

On the basis of features

Medium Density Fibreboard comes in three different varieties-

• The moisture-resistant MDF boards are suitable for wet areas such as bathrooms. It is marked by green stamps on the board edges.
• Fire retardant MDF boards are used in kitchens. It is marked as a red or blue stamp on the product edges.
• Ultra-light MDF board weighs approximately 30 per cent less than standard MDF board. They are used where weight is a factor of consideration, for example, in furniture.

 

On the basis of finishing

 

Veneered

Manufactured from high-quality wood veneers attached to medium-density fibreboards, the veneered MDF Board gives a more natural appearance to wood.

That is why today’s builders substitute solid wood with veneered MDF.

This board is made by wrapping a 1-2 mm thick hardwood around the MDF board using heat and pressure.

These veneered boards need more care and maintenance than laminates.

These can be used in offices, conference halls, and home interior walls.

Generally, Veneered MDF is a more cost-effective option since the veneer coat protects the fibreboard and makes it safe for usage.

 

Also see: Laminate vs Veneer: Which one should you opt for?

 

Laminated

Laminated Medium Density Fibreboard has a unique surface finish which makes it a great substitute for plywood.

The laminate coating is an additional layer added to the fibreboard surface making it scratch-resistant and highly durable.

Depending on your requirement, the board can be laminated on one side or both sides.

Laminate MDF boards are extensively used in partitions, panels, cupboard shutters, doors, tabletops, etc.

 

Grades of MDF boards

Medium Density Fibreboard is available in two grades-

• Interior Grade- It refers to the MDF board suitable for use in interior applications
• Exterior Grade- It refers to the board suitable for exterior applications. It is packed with features like moisture and heat resistance to combat weather.

 

Applications of Medium Density Fibreboard

These boards are primarily used for indoor applications due to their poor moisture resistance. They are available in raw form, with a finely sanded surface, or with a decorative overlay. They are popular in the following areas of application-

• It may be used to make wall-panels
• For flooring purposes
• For furniture such as cabinets and storage units
• In modular kitchens
• MDF jali designs are a valuable add-on for decorative ceilings and doors

 

MDF designs

 

MDF jali designs for ceiling

 

Image Source: kathuriya.com

 

MDF jali design is an appealing option for the home. It is a brilliant ceiling design idea.

This false ceiling adds exquisite detailing to an otherwise dull bedroom ceiling.

 

MDF board white cornices

MDF cornices look great adorning the walls of your home. They add a royal and luxurious touch to the home.

Image Source: Silver Springs Woodworks

Image Source: FrenchyFancy

 

A plain white cornice outlines any area with a pleasing simplicity.

 

Checkered board flooring

 

Image Source: Armstrong Flooring

 

This soothing and classic black & white combination is a great design idea for MDF Board flooring.

Black works magically with this predominantly neutral-toned room.

 

MDF jali door design

 

Image Source: Civil Engineering Discoveries

 

As mentioned above, MDF jali designs are an attractive design option for doors.

This symmetrical pattern makes the entrance to your home stand out from the mundane.

 

High-gloss kitchen cabinets

 

Image Source: Deco Group

 

This modular kitchen design has a dominant presence of laminated MDF for furniture.

This kitchen combines a rustic aesthetic with a modern set-up.

 

Paintable MDF bath

 

Image Source: bathpanelstore

 

The blush pink exterior of this bathtub made of MDF panels is eye-catching.

A waterproof MDF sheet is the best choice for bathroom furniture.

 

Textured panels for wall

 

Image Source: Walmart

 

MDF can be shaped to resemble a horizontal or vertical striped pattern.

A vertical pattern gives the illusion of length to a room while the MDF texture adds to the style quotient.

 

MDF board for bathroom furniture

 

Image Source: badkamer-voordeel

 

For obvious reasons, a waterproof MDF sheet is the best choice for bathroom cabinets.

They make for sturdy and stylish bathroom accessories.

 

3D wall panelling

 

Image Source: Design Chronicle

 

This MDF wall panelling is exquisite. It makes your wall seem three-dimensional and gives it an artistic look.

 

Statement wall panel

 

Image Source: Wattpad

 

Emphasize your bed with this MDF jali design wall panel. It adds elegance to your bedroom.

 

TV table

 

Image Source: SKLUM

 

For a more classic feel, opt for an MDF board TV table instead of getting it wall-hung.

The drawers provide additional space for one to store their Blu-Ray stack!

 

Painted MDF board cabinet

 

Image Source: This Old House

 

This kind of cabinet is perfect for the kitchen workspace. It is stylish in a subtle way due to the presence of two complementary colours.

 

Black cornices

 

Image Source: Shutterfly

 

If you thought that only neutral shades would work on cornices, you are in for a surprise!

MDF wood cornices look just as stately in a matte black finish.

 

Mdf jali design for mandir

 

Image Source: Venetian design

 

If you want an enclosed but visible space for your place of worship, then MDF wood panels along with an MDF jail design will do the trick.

 

MDF jali designs for mandir

 

Image Source: Decor Units

 

This slidable MDF sheet is a great option to lower the cost. You don’t need to invest in multiple sheets- just the one would do.

Also, the MDF jali design makes the temple look beautiful.

 

Panel top

 

Image Source: Article

 

The dining room furniture can be upgraded to a wooden exterior with MDF tops for the metal table and chairs.

 

MDF wooden floor

 

Image Source: About Flooring

 

These MDF sheets replicate the look of a wooden floor and make for a warm atmosphere.

 

Simple panelling for walls

 

Image Source: Pinterest

 

The plain blue vertical grid look of this MDF wall panel is classy and looks great in a study room.

 

MDF sheet partition

 

Image Source: Civil Engineering Discoveries

 

Decorative MDF sheets are art pieces unto themselves. This MDF design for partition adds to the overall look of the living room.

 

Movable panels for partitions

 

Image Source: ArchiExpo

 

These efficient sliding Medium Density Fibreboard doors save space that would be needed to allow the opening of the door.

 

Watch this video: How to seal and paint MDF edges? (9 mins 38 secs)

 

 

MDF board brands

 

ASIS

ASIS Exterior Grade MDF offers uniform thickness and a homogeneous structure.

These boards are high on moisture resistance, termite resistance, borer, and fungus resistance also. Moreover, these boards are eco-friendly and possess very low levels of formaldehyde emissions.

ASIS pre-laminated MDF is available in 43 contemporary designs and colours with 2 distinct finishes namely suede and matte.

They are available in Grade I (exterior MDF); Grade II (interior MDF); one-side laminated; both-side laminated; one-side bare; both-side balancing variants.

 

Action Tesa

Action Tesa MDF boards have the best routing characteristics due to special German technology used to press the boards in a way so that compression pressure can reach its core.

Thus, the core is densified which is required for high-quality routing.

• Interior grade plain and pre-laminated MDF
• Exterior grade plain and pre-laminated MDF

 

Century Prowud

Century Prowud Medium Density Fibreboard is borer, termite, fungus, and highly moisture resistant. Additionally, it is made with a higher density, and to a higher standard.

These products are perfect for creating durable furniture of all shapes and sizes, as well as stunning interiors of every design.

The brand offers the following two ranges in MDF boards-

• Densified Water-resistant board
• Densified Interior Range

 

Vir

Vir Medium Density Fibreboard, from the house of Rushil Décor, is a new-age product, a great alternative to solid wood and plywood. Also, it is a favourite of OEMs, SCPs, and conventional wood furniture manufacturers across India.

Vir products are as follows-

• Interior Grade
• Exterior Grade
• Interior Grade Decorative
• Exterior Grade Decorative

 

Archidply

Archidply Medium Density Fibreboard is extensively used in partitions, panels, false ceilings, cupboard shutters, and panel door inserts, among others.

Products from this brand are-

• Prelaminated
• Plain
• Pre-veneered

 

Duratuff

DURATUFF MDF boards find application in both interior and exterior decoration & furniture making.

They provide the following products-

• Pre-lam Interior Grade
• Pre-lam Exterior Grade
• Plain Exterior Grade
• Plain Interior Grade

 

Price and size of MDF boards

Good quality MDF board price ranges from Rs 40 per square foot to Rs 120 per square foot. Also, the laminated MDF board price is higher than the plain MDF board price. The MDF board price highly depends on the thickness and grade of the material.

The standard size of MDF boards across most brands is 2440mm (8 ft) x 1220mm (4 ft). Thus, the MDF Board price is also standardized.

Other variants of size are available as per specifications. Thus, the MDF Board price also slightly varies.

MDF sheets are available in a great range of thicknesses from 5 mm to 30 mm, as per the application.

Sr. No.	Brands	Grades	Sizes	Thickness
1.	VIR	Interior and Exterior	8 ft x 4 ft	7.5mm, 7.8 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 11mm, 12mm, 15mm, 16.7 mm, 17mm, 18mm, 22mm, 25mm, 30 mm
2.	Archiply	Interior and Exterior	8 ft x 4 ft, 8 ft x 6 ft	5.5 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 11 mm, 12 mm, 16.7 mm, 17 mm, 18 mm, 25 mm
3.	Action TESA	Interior and Exterior	8 ft x 4 ft	5.5 mm, 7.5 mm, 8 mm, 11 mm, 12 mm, 15 mm, 16 mm, 17 mm, 18 mm, 25 mm
4.	Pioneer Panel	Interior and Exterior	8 ft x 4 ft	7.5 mm, 8 mm, 11 mm, 12 mm, 15 mm,17 mm, 18 mm, 25 mm
5.	CROSSBOND	Interior and Exterior	8 ft x 4 ft	7.5 mm, 9 mm, 11 mm, 12 mm, 15 mm,16 mm, 17 mm, 18 mm, 25 mm

 

Our recommendations (Buy here)

 

Century Prowud Medium Density Fibreboard Densified Interior Range

Woodmartshop Pre-laminated Medium Density Fibreboard

B U Y  H E R E

 

Archiply Decor Pre-laminated Medium Density Fibreboard

B U Y  H E R E

 

VIR Interior Grade Medium Density Fibreboard

B U Y  H E R E

 

 Mark Glam Medium Density Fibreboard

B U Y  H E R E

 

Action Tesa Pre-Laminated Medium Density Fibreboard

B U Y  H E R E

 

Century Prowud Medium Density Fibreboard

B U Y  H E R E

 

ASIS Exterior Grade Medium Density Fibreboard

B U Y  H E R E

 

VIR Proplus (Exterior Grade Medium Density Fibreboard)

B U Y  H E R E

 

Archiply Decor Plain Medium Density Fibreboard

B U Y  H E R E

 

Conclusion

MDF boards are the result of the pursuit of substitutes for natural wood. It aimed to make use of the high levels of waste produced by lumber mills.

In recent times, it has emerged as a sustainable building material.

Besides being a strong and sturdy material, an MDF board also offers great flexibility in design.

While there are many reasons for using it, there are also drawbacks. Major drawbacks include the release of formaldehyde as well as expanding and warping issues. However, it remains easy to overcome all of these drawbacks by taking precautionary measures.

Safety measures can minimize these problems to a significant extent.

The categorization of MDF boards into different types depends on their finish, their density, and their special features.

Wall panelling, flooring, doors, cabinets, and other storage units mainly use MDF boards.

The designs and applications of MDF sheets are plenty.

If manufactured and installed correctly and with precision, MDF sheets are one of the best composite wood products on the market.