Toybox Using Hardwood Plywood Vs Mdf

Hdf vs plywood layers in engineered hardwood discussion in solid and engineered hardwood q a started by wjb oct 1 2015.

Toybox using hardwood plywood vs mdf.

Because of the smooth edges you can use a router to create decorative edges. It won t swell from the paint and once painted it won t absorb anything. Pine would do well too. Mdf is usually cheaper than plywood but a lot depends upon the grade of plywood and types of wood used.

However if you are after an effect plywood can be more giving than mdf. The fineness of the particles used to make mdf mean it generates a lot of dust. Mdf is generally cheaper than plywood. I am trying to understand the pros and cons of hdf vs.

Contractors working with mdf would do best to cut and sand outside or if that isn t an option make sure there is plenty of ventilation indoors. Higher grades of plywood are more expensive because they are more aesthetically pleasing often displaying natural hardwood or softwood grains. Also the is no problem with gluing mdf plywood together this works. Sheets of plywood ending up with a 3 in thick top.

Mdf is more dense than plywood or wood. Mdf offers smoother straighter surfaces than plywood. If dust is going to be a concern then plywood is a better choice. You have to keep water away from it and its strength compared to plywood is a topic of debate but for the right applications it can be a great option.

Plywood works but still is a softer less dense material. Wood on its own depending on type has all kinds of problems with expansion and contraction. The salesman we talked with said the hdf was just as good but how can that be. Mdf is very consistent throughout so cut edges appear smooth and won t have voids or splinters.

Both plywood and mdf are easy to use especially for diy experts who work with them regularly. I d be leaning toward mdf because it paints so well. While you can paint plywood higher grade plywood. Mdf with its smooth surface and lack of grain takes paint like a champ although for the best finish start with a coat of oil based primer.

Lower grades are used in construction work where they will not be seen e g for subflooring. Strips then gluing them together on edge to a base of two 3 4 in. I am preparing to build a workbench and would like a properly thick top of hardwood. The surface of mdf is very smooth which makes it a great surface for painting.

Let s look further into this and see if mdf is the right material for you to use in your build first a common misconception. Toy chest build mdf or plywood. The hard surface of plywood makes the furniture made from it durable and strong. Plywood layers in engineered hardwood floors.