Why are MDF mouldings becoming more popular than timber?

Let’s face it…there will always be a place for solid wood. It is beautiful and if you want to achieve that rustic or raw wood look then it is a fantastic material for applications such as wooden shelving, exposed beams, doors or flooring. However, if you are trying to source a wood material to paint, then it isn’t the best option, and more and more people are discovering why.

The last year has made everyone look at their homes in a different light and making improvements became top of the agenda. People have been discovering DIY skills they never knew they had! MDF has featured heavily in many online shopping baskets, so we thought it would be a good idea to explain why it is becoming the preferred option for an increasing number of applications within the home, from kitchen cabinets and built-in wardrobes to shelving, staircases, wall panelling and mouldings.

1. MDF is free from defects and knots, which means it doesn’t need the same lengthy preparation process before painting that you would have with solid wood.

2. It is brilliant for painting because the boards are so smooth, so for applications such as internal wall cladding or panelling it is a clear winner.

3. Where you will find rough edges and imperfections with solid wood, you get consistently smooth edges with MDF, so it is unequalled when achieving seamless lines for decorative joinery applications like interior barn style doors or furniture panelling.

4. It comes in long lengths

5. MDF provides more customisation options as it is really easy to create decorative trims or mouldings using the correct tools, making it a perfect choice for wall panelling trim, skirting, architrave, dado rails and picture rails.

6. It is resistant to moisture, warping and swelling and so provides excellent function in areas of humidity, such as bathrooms and kitchens, which is why it is the favoured material for skirting, architrave, window board and kitchen cabinets.

7. For the eco-conscious among us, MDF is actually recycled wood. MDF manufacturers’ take wood chips leftover from the production of timber lengths and other wood products, which might normally end up in landfill or being burned, and turn them into MDF by using glue and pressure heat. MDF is also a low-waste material in that you basically use what you buy. There is little to no wastage unlike with solid wood where inconsistency, knots, defects and warping can lead to a lot of the product being unsuitable to use. The varying lengths of timber can also make it more difficult to work with.

8. It is affordable! MDF is generally cheaper to buy than solid wood and provides far more benefits for the user meaning you get much better value for money.

So, there you have it… the reasons why MDF is fast becoming every DIY and interior lover’s best friend. Not only does it make life easier and provide a ream of benefits when completing home projects, but you can do it all without breaking the bank.

For more information visit samonline.co.uk or call our sales team on 028 9442 8288.