Difference Between MDF and Particle Board

19th February 2023

Although solid wood is a preferred finishing material for furniture, it comes with a price disadvantage. Manufacturers of furniture often use particleboard and medium density fiberboard (MDF) in their products to reduce the overall cost of their materials.

Particle and medium density fiberboard (MDF) are both composite materials. The main advantage of these is that they are much cheaper than wood. In this article, we will talk about the differences between particle and medium density fiberboard.

What is MDF Board?

Medium-density fibre board (MDF) is a type of wood-based material that’s commonly used for making home skirting. It’s made by combining wood fibers with glue. This mixture then goes through a press machine to create a board. 

 

Medium-density fiberboard, also known as MDF, is an engineered wood product made up of wood fibers. Unlike other types of wood, it does not have visible wood grain, knots, or rings. The process of making the composite involves using glue, heat, and fibers. Hardwood and softwood are used to produce it.

This type of material is commonly used for building projects, and it creates a stronger and more resilient material than plywood. We use a sealant on the veneer to prevent water damage. Fiberboard can be fire retardant and moisture resistant.

What is Particle Board?

A particleboard is made from waste wood products such as wood chips, wood shaving, and sawdust. These are then combined with other resins and glues to form a type of engineered wood product.  A particle board is made from waste wood, such as wood chips, resin, and wood scraps. Various chemicals are used to make it waterproof, insect-proof, and fireproof. These include dye, wax, release agents, and wetting agents.

The weight distribution of wood chips is evenly spaced to make sure that the finished particle board is not too top heavy. To create the ideal bond between the wood bits and the resin, compression is applied several times to the sheet. An oriented strand board is a typical type of particle board. An important structural component for commercial and home builders is OSB particle board, which is characterized by its various layers of wood that are arranged in a specific orientation. This type of wood is commonly used for wall and floor bases.

Conclusion

The various properties of particle and medium density fiberboard (MDF) make them unique. When choosing a suitable board, it is important to consider the needs of the users. In this article, I will talk about the differences between particle and MDF.

 

The type of material that you use when building cabinets will also affect the longevity of the finished product. For instance, if you are planning on using a wood composite for the frame, you might opt for plywood. This type of material holds its screws well and can withstand the effects of paint. Its multiple layers make it incredibly lightweight and durable. A simple shelving unit can be made with medium density fiberboard (MDF) in order to save money. However, keep in mind that this type of wood can be prone to water damage.