MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) and plywood are two popular choices for construction and woodworking projects. Both materials have their own strengths and weaknesses, but when it comes to strength, which one comes out on top?
MDF is made from fine wood fibers combined with resin and pressed into sheets under high pressure. It is dense, uniform, and smooth, making it a popular choice for cabinet and furniture making. Plywood, on the other hand, is made from thin layers of wood veneer glued together with the grains running perpendicular to each other.
What is MDF?
MDF stands for Medium Density Fiberboard. It is an engineered wood product made by breaking down hardwood or softwood residuals into wood fibers, combining them with wax and a resin binder, and forming panels by applying high temperature and pressure.
Characteristics of MDF:
| Strength | Medium to high strength |
| Weight | Heavy |
| Smoothness | Smooth surface that is ideal for painting |
| Cost | Generally more affordable than plywood |
What is Plywood?
Plywood is a type of engineered wood sheet material that is made by gluing together multiple thin layers of wood veneers. These layers are stacked in alternating perpendicular directions to improve strength and reduce the risk of warping. The adhesive used in plywood is typically a resin, which provides durability and stability. Plywood is known for its versatility, as it can be used in a wide range of applications such as furniture, cabinets, flooring, and structural framing.
Density Comparison
MDF typically has a higher density compared to plywood. The density of MDF ranges from about 700-900 kg/m³, while the density of plywood ranges from about 400-700 kg/m³.
Advantages of higher density:
- Higher density can result in better strength and durability.
- Higher density can provide better resistance to moisture and warping.
- Higher density can result in a smoother surface finish.
Strength of MDF
MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) is a strong and durable material that is engineered by breaking down hardwood or softwood residuals into wood fibers. These fibers are then combined with resin and wax, and compressed under high pressure and temperature to create a dense, flat panel.
One of the key strengths of MDF is its consistent density and stability, which makes it less prone to warping, cracking, or splitting compared to natural wood. This makes MDF an ideal choice for projects that require uniform strength and structure.
When properly manufactured, MDF can have high strength and impact resistance, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, including furniture construction, cabinetry, shelving, and flooring.
However, it is important to note that excessive exposure to moisture can weaken MDF, so it is essential to use proper sealing and finishing techniques to protect the material from water damage.
Strength of Plywood
Plywood is known for its high strength and durability, making it a popular choice for structural applications. The cross-grain construction of plywood gives it increased strength in all directions, making it less likely to warp or crack compared to solid wood.
Factors affecting plywood strength:
| Factor | Effect on Strength |
|---|---|
| Number of layers | More layers typically result in higher strength |
| Quality of adhesive | Strong adhesive enhances overall strength |
| Thickness of veneers | Thicker veneers generally add to strength |
Impact Resistance
MDF has lower impact resistance compared to plywood. Due to its composition of wood fibers and resin, MDF is more prone to denting and scratching when subjected to impact. Plywood, on the other hand, made from multiple layers of thin wood veneers glued together, has better impact resistance and is less likely to dent or scratch when hit with force. Overall, plywood is a better choice for applications where impact resistance is a crucial factor.
Moisture Resistance
MDF:
MDF is not as moisture-resistant as plywood. When exposed to moisture, MDF tends to swell and break down more easily than plywood. It is important to keep MDF away from wet or humid environments to maintain its integrity and strength.
Plywood:
Plywood is more resistant to moisture compared to MDF. Its layers of wood veneer provide better protection against water damage, making it a more suitable choice for areas prone to high humidity or moisture exposure. However, plywood can still be affected by prolonged exposure to water, so it is important to seal its edges properly to enhance its moisture resistance.
Durability Comparison
MDF is known for its consistent density and lack of voids or splinters, which can result in a smoother finish and better resistance to warping or cracking compared to plywood.
On the other hand, plywood’s cross-grain construction makes it more dimensionally stable and less prone to expansion and contraction with changes in temperature and humidity, potentially leading to better long-term durability.
When it comes to durability, the choice between MDF and plywood ultimately depends on the specific project requirements and environmental factors such as moisture levels and exposure to the elements.
Application in Furniture Making
Both MDF and plywood are commonly used materials in furniture making due to their strength and versatility. MDF is often preferred for furniture that requires a smooth surface finish, such as cabinets and shelves, as it does not have visible grain patterns. On the other hand, plywood is frequently used in furniture that requires strength and durability, such as tables and chairs.
MDF in Furniture Making
Due to its smooth surface finish, MDF is a popular choice for furniture that is painted or veneered. It is also easier to shape and can be CNC machined to create intricate designs. However, MDF is not as strong as plywood and may not be suitable for furniture that requires heavy load-bearing capabilities.
Plywood in Furniture Making
Plywood is known for its strength and durability, making it a great choice for furniture that needs to withstand heavy use. It is often used in furniture that requires structural stability, such as tables and chairs. Plywood can also be finished with veneer to give it a more polished look.