MDF vs. solid wood: which is better?

If you've ever wondered why some furniture is so much cheaper than others or what that term "MDF" on so many labels means, you're in the right place. 

Let's solve all your doubts and compare the differences between the MDF and solid woodWhich one is better, read on and find out!

MDF what is it?

The MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) is a type of engineered wood that is manufactured from pressed wood fibers bonded with resin. This material has become a popular alternative in furniture manufacturing for several reasons:

1. It is more economical than solid wood.

2. It has a smooth surfaceideal for painting or lacquering.

3. It is versatile and can be cut into different shapes without splintering.

Unlike solid wood, which comes directly from tree trunks, MDF uses recycled wood fibers. MDF uses recycled wood fibers, making it a more sustainablewhich makes it a more sustainable option.

MDF wood is good

MDF has some important advantages, but you should also be aware of its disadvantages to make an informed decision.

Advantages of MDF:

1. Will not warp or crack as natural wood does as natural wood does when there are temperature changes.

2. It is easier to paint and customizesince it has no visible veins.

3. It is more economicalwhich makes it perfect for projects with a tight budget.

Disadvantages of MDF:

1. It is not as strong as solid wood. This means that it does not support as much weight and can be damaged over time.

2. Does not react well to moisturewhich makes it less suitable for furniture that will be outdoors or in humid areas.

Therefore, the MDF wood is good for for certain uses, such as cabinet doors, shelving, and decorative furniture, but it is not the best choice forbut it is not the best choice for dining tables o furniture that will receive a lot of daily use..

MDF Material vs. Solid Wood

Durability

The solid wood wins in this aspect. It is much stronger and more durable than MDF. Solid wood furniture, such as the ones you can find at Oak.Storecan last for generations if properly cared for.

Price

MDF is much cheaper to produce, which makes furniture made from this material more affordable. However, this also means that its durability will be less.

Aesthetics

Although MDF can mimic the look of wood, the natural beauty of solid wood is difficult to match, the natural beauty of solid wood is difficult to match.. Each piece of wood has a unique grain pattern, which adds a special, authentic touch to each piece of furniture.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is MDF material good for furniture?

Yes, it is a good choice for decorative and light-duty furniturebut it is not the best choice for pieces that will support a lot of weight or be in contact with water.

What is the difference between engineered wood and MDF?

The MDF is one type of engineered woodbut there are other types, such as plywood or laminated wood, which have different properties and uses.

What are the advantages of solid wood over MDF?

Solid wood is more durable, resistant and aesthetically superior. In addition, solid wood solid wood furniture increase the value of your home and can last a lifetime.

What we mean when we talk about "MDF".

MDF stands for medium density fiberboard, a type of engineered wood that is widely used in the manufacture of flat-pack furniture and cabinet doors. Although it is essentially a material made from recycled wood fibers, wax and resin, composite wood is denser than plywood and about as strong as most types of natural wood.

MDF comes in many varieties and grains that vary in price depending on the size of the material, the thickness, the type of glue used and the species of wood used to manufacture it.

MDF - The good news

1. Is MDF strong? It will not warp or crack

Due to its unique structure, MDF is virtually immune to warping and cracking. Its ability to withstand extreme moisture is due to the fact that each board expands and contracts the unit. This flexibility allows the engineered wood to fully retain its original shape. But how strong is MDF? Standard MDF can support up to 90 kg in weight. That is why the durability of MDF furniture is a superior advantage compared to solid wood.

2. It is much more accessible

With some exceptions, MDF materials are much less expensive than their natural counterparts. They are available at local stores and their panels come in sizes ranging from 5 feet to 10 feet, making them ideal for projects that require large, seamless pieces of wood.

3. It can be easily painted or dyed.

One of the main differences between MDF and natural wood panels is that the former has no visible grain. This makes the job of painting or staining the wood much easier since you won't have to worry about any wood grains or knots seeping through and ruining all your hard work.

4. It is an option for cabinet doors

When it comes to strong MDF cabinet doors, you'll find a variety of styles available, such as flat, inset or raised panel designs. Some boards even offer improved water resistance, which is why so many kitchen and bathroom cabinets on the market are made from this material.

MDF - The bad news about flat packs

1. MDF scratches easily

This alone would not be a problem if MDF had been sanded. Unfortunately, that is not the case, as sanding engineered wood will only expose its fiber material. This means that any scratches or dents your furniture receives will be permanent. In this regard, solid wood is a better alternative, as even a casual sanding job will often be enough to erase the damage.

2. Weighs much more

When comparing solid and engineered wood, you'd think the natural equivalent would be heavier, right? Well, as it turns out, the opposite is true. In fact, MDF is so heavy that cabinet installation becomes several times more difficult than assembling normal hardwood cabinets.

3. Does not react well to heat

If exposed to extreme heat, the core materials of this engineered wood will be irreparably damaged, rendering the material completely unusable. That is why you should try to avoid placing MDF furniture near fireplaces, cooking stoves or in your outdoor garden at all costs.

4. Not weight friendly

While this type of engineered wood is very commonly used in cabinetry, open wall shelving and bookcases, placing too many books or heavy china plates on top can cause the material to gradually sag over time. You can avoid this by reinforcing your MDF furniture with solid wood.

Which type of wood wins the fight?

As you may have gathered at this point, gold medal does not belong to either of these materials. In reality, your choice between MDF and solid wood will generally come down to your personal aesthetic preferences, budget and how you intend to use each of the materials.

However, when it comes to choosing cabinet doors, medium density fiberboard clearly takes the lead. We recommend using this material if you want to give your kitchen or bathroom a little facelift, or if you're someone who favors convenience and practicality over visual appeal.

But, if you are a traditionalist who loves classic designs and for whom budget is not really a concern, then solid wood is the material you need to make the project of your dreams come true and here at Oak.Store we can offer any furniture item.

Conclusion

In short, both materials have their place in the world of furniture. If you are looking for inexpensive furniture that is easy to customize, the MDF can be a good choice. But if you want durable furniture with superior aesthetic value, solid wood is the best choice. solid wood is the best choice.

At Roble.Store, we offer solid wood furniture that combine quality, sustainability and design, perfect to give your home that unique touch you are looking for.