What Is MDF Timber?

MDF stands for "medium density fiberboard" wood. It is a composite hardboard wood made from pieces of wood fibers secured together by glue, resin, pressure and heat. MDF wood is used to make many kinds of storage units and floors.

Identification

• MDF has a smooth surface. People can paint MDF cabinets or storage units with oil or water-based paints. Common sizes for MDF wood include 1/4-inch to 1 1/4-inch thickness with 48-to-61-inches in width and 73-to-121-inches in length.

Benefits

• MDF timber does not have a grain, so wood product manufacturers can cut it in any direction, unlike other woods that must be cut along the grain. Since MDF wood does not have knots, manufactures can drill holes and put joints at any location in the wood.

Considerations

• MDF wood has a greater weight than particleboard. It contains urea formaldehyde that can be released during cutting, which may cause eye and lung irritation in some people.