When it comes to finding the perfect material for your project, knowing about the key differences between the available materials is vitally important, and there can be a lot to consider as part of this choice. As such, it is often easy to overlook the benefits and drawbacks of each material – which is why, today, we’re taking a quick look at the main differences between MDF and particle board to help you decide which will work for your needs.
What is MDF?
First of all, let’s take a look at MDF. MDF, which is short for medium density fiberboard, is a type of wood material that is made from the fibers of hardwoods and softwoods, combined into a single panel. Often, these fibers will be wood scraps or waste pieces of wood, making it an excellent option for sustainable development.
Benefits of MDF
MDF has a variety of different uses, and it is often a popular choice for furniture makers, DIYers, hobbyists and interior designers. Not only is the material highly versatile for a range of potential applications, MDF is also a very cost effective and affordable option for many, thus lending itself to a wide array of applications.
In addition to being versatile, MDF is also highly scratch and splinter resistant, making it ideal for use in furniture or worktops (where splinters may be likely to form). It also boasts a very smooth and high-quality finish, allowing it to be easily painted with very little finishing needed to achieve a high standard of finish.
What is Particle Board?
Thus far, we’ve looked at the properties of MDF – but what about particle board? Well, particle board is a specialist product that’s made from wood particles of varying sizes and shapes, often chips and fragments. These particles usually come from waste wood and chippings, and they are bound together by resin. The formed panel is finally compressed to help maintain its overall shape, thus forming a lightweight and relatively durable structure.
The Benefits of Particle Board
Particleboard has a wide range of applications, ranging from furniture making and wall paneling to flooring and more. The material tends to lend itself, particularly toward light construction projects due to its affordability and lighter structure, which help make it easy to use without breaking the bank.
However, it is worth noting that particle boards can be very brittle and can potentially be easily damaged if not handled correctly. Furthermore, particle board is prone to water damage or humidity; as such, ensuring the particleboard is not used in outdoor projects unless treated with basic waterproofing or damp conditions is vital to ensure that it lasts and provides a versatile material overall for your project.
Find the Perfect Material for Your Needs
Ultimately, there is a lot to consider when deciding which material to choose, and it’s always crucial to evaluate what you want to achieve and what the final use of the product is going to be before making a decision. Fortunately, if you need any further support, our experts here at Tacon Wood can help – so, contact us at taconsales86@gmail.com if you need any more ideas or support with this all-important decision.
