Deciding between medium-density fiberboard (MDF) and plywood for a project can be a conundrum for many DIYers. While MDF and plywood are both sheet materials found near each other at home improvement centers, containing real wood, and highly engineered in their finished forms, they are manufactured differently so they do not function the same.
Plywood is a versatile and strong sheet material that is often used for underlayment, furniture and flooring while soft yet stable MDF often works for cabinet doors, trim and shelves. So why is one material chosen over another? Let’s break down the differences between MDF and plywood so you’re ready to make the best choice for your next DIY project. MDF Vs. Here’s what you need to know about plywood.
What is MDF?
If you wonder”MDF is plywood” And whether there really is n difference between the two materials, the reality is that they are very different. MDF starts with hardwood and softwood fibers, which manufacturers glue together with various resins. They then subject the material to high heat and pressure to form the panels. MDF has no grain, isn’t as smooth as plywood, and is what it looks like: pressed wood fibers.
Types of MDF
Under the umbrella of MDF products are different types of panels with different features.
- Standard MDF: used for shelves, furniture, cabinet doors
- Moisture-resistant MDF: Along with its green core, it contains resins to help resist moisture
- Fire-retardant MDF: Added chemicals can help slow the spread of fire.
- Exterior MDF: Resists moisture in partially exposed areas
- Ultralight MDF: Lighter weight than standard MDF and used for trimwork
pros
- Less expensive than plywood
- Paint takes well
- No lumps or grains
- Have a smooth surface (not as smooth as plywood)
- Easy to cut and root
- Can be made fire resistant
opposition
- Softer than plywood
- Heavier than plywood
- Makes more sawdust
- Screws do not take well
- Swells with contact with water
- Corners prone to scratches and damage easily
- May contain formaldehyde
What is plywood?
Plywood starts with very thin layers of wood from peeler logs. Since plywood is made of wood strips, its surfaces take on a solid-wood look better than MDF. Higher grades of plywood are smooth and quite attractive, with plenty of grain, yet none of the knots that can mark solid wood.
types
Here are some Common Types of Plywood There are advantages and disadvantages of plywood to consider.
- Softwood plywood: Made from softwood trees, often used for subflooring.
- Hardwood Plywood: Made from an outer layer of hardwood with a softwood core, often used for furniture.
- Flexible plywood: Bendable plywood that can be bent for furniture or arches
- Marine-grade plywood: Waterproof glue helps for use in boats or outdoor projects
pros
- smooth surface with wood grain
- No knotholes
- Can flex for curved surfaces
- Does not strain
- Less susceptible to water damage than MDF
- Less expensive than wood
- Fasteners hold better than MDF
- Easy to color and stain
- Can be made to resist moisture or fire
opposition
- Costs more than MDF
- Need an edge
- Not as simple as routing or shaping
Difference between MDF and Plywood
While they may look similar, these two popular wood combinations are not interchangeable. To help you decide between them, we’ve addressed their primary differences in the categories that matter most to the average DIYer.
strength
Understanding the differences in plywood vs MDF strength will help you choose the right material. Plywood is stronger than MDF and is used in marine construction and as underlayment for roofs. MDF is a softer material than plywood and tends to bend or split under pressure. That’s why it’s important to reinforce it if you’re going to use it to make shelves or other weight-bearing furniture. Plywood also has more flex than MDF, so you can gently bend it to create curves; Also, plywood does not expand, contract or warp even in temperature extremes.
weight
Plywood Vs. MDF weight is an important detail. Because it is slightly denser than plywood, MDF weighs significantly more. This can be a major problem if you need to lift, hold or clamp panels in place or build something that requires overhead reach, such as elevated shelves.
Durability
Plywood can be more durable than MDF, especially in wet conditions. Because MDF can heat or scratch more easily than plywood, it is not used as underlayment, for shipping crates, or to board up windows during storms.
Price
At home improvement stores, you’ll find both lumber options in sheet form of various thicknesses and grades—the higher the grade, the higher the price. Although the price depends on the thickness and grade of the material, in general, MDF costs less than plywood. If you are cost conscious and have no other factors recommending one material over another, MDF wins the price war.
When to use MDF
Planning to make a furniture, frame or cabinet door with intricately scrolled or routed trim? Then you will find it easier with MDF. Because of its lack of grain and its softness, MDF is easy to cut and won’t split or crack along the edges, whether you’re carving into curves, sharp corners, or ridges. Conversely, due to its stacked construction, plywood has rough edges and is not suitable for fancy curves or cuts. A straight cut can also turn out ragged edges, but our Tips for cutting plywood You can save those imperfections.
Because of its construction, MDF creates more sawdust when cut than plywood, so you’ll need to be extra careful about working in a well-ventilated area and wearing a respirator or other protective mask and goggles. MDF, with its smooth surface and lack of grain, Takes paint like a champ. For the best finish, start with a coat of oil-based primer. Use MDF to make:
- shelves
- Trimwork and panelling
- Cabinet doors
When to use plywood
Look at the edge of a piece of plywood, and you’ll see the thin layers of wood it’s made of. That means you’ll need to finish any exposed edges of your project if it’s made of plywood, usually with either edge banding or molding. This is not a problem with MDF, which does not show layers at the edges.
Because it is soft, MDF does not anchor screws very well. So if your project involves a lot of screws or nails, plywood may be a better choice. While you can paint plywood, high-grade plywood looks great with stain because of its solid-wood-like grain and finish. Use plywood for:
FAQ
Plywood lasts longer because it tolerates moisture better, is stronger and withstands loads better.
Plywood is stronger than MDF. Cross layers of plywood construction hold it up to loads, resist bending forces and hold fasteners more securely.
The wood fibers of MDF easily remove moisture, causing it to expand and soften. While plywood is better at resisting moisture than MDF, it can swell and warp.
Although you can screw into MDF, it is always best Predrill a pilot hole To avoid splitting. Don’t just try to attach the end of a sheet of MDF.
A pair of materials works well for cabinet making. The strength of plywood is great for cabinet boxes and the simple and easily workable nature of MDF with router and paint is great for door fronts.
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