MDF is the material you have probably heard of. In the vast majority of cases, it is mentioned in the context of the furniture industry, but its scope is much wider, and the list of works using medium density fibreboard also includes interior decoration. Today I want to talk about such material as MDF panels.
This material appeared in the United States back in 1966. MDF came to Russia much later - in 1997, and immediately began to gain its position in the furniture industry. Well, the largest manufacturer of this board material is the PRC.
Like chipboard or fiberboard, this material is based on wood fragments. However, there are fundamental differences in the manufacturing process. If the first two options contain binding resins of synthetic origin, which hold the chips and fibers together, then MDF is made differently - sawdust is pressed under high pressure and temperature. At the same time, in such extreme conditions lignin is released from them, which serves as a binder. This manufacturing method brought the material one of the advantages.
Advantages and disadvantages of MDF panels
- Complete environmental friendliness. Unlike chipboard and fiberboard, there are no chemical compounds in MDF that emit harmful substances. The emission of formaldehyde in this case is close to that of natural wood;
- Low material cost. Despite the fact that MDF is generally more expensive than similar chipboard materials, the cost of finishing panels based on them remains very low and looks more attractive than in the case of wood;
- Attractive appearance and a varied color palette;
- The panels are laid on a pre-installed frame, which allows not to carry out work on leveling the wall. In addition, this approach allows you to carry out wiring and other communications under the wall;
- The material has even geometric shapes, which simplifies installation as much as possible. Simplicity also contributes to the castle connection;
- Unlike wooden panels does not require varnishing after installation.
Other advantages of MDF panels include the fact that insect pests are completely indifferent to them, they perfectly absorb sound and poorly conduct temperature, which gives them the function of a heater. In addition, cracks do not appear in such panels over time.
The disadvantages are traditionally the wooden nature of such panels. Like everything created on the basis of this material, these finishing elements are highly flammable, so it is not advisable to install them in rooms with a high chance of ignition. Also, MDF panels are afraid of water, and in this sense they are even less preferable than solid wood. They can only be used in interior decoration, in well-heated rooms with low level humidity. Otherwise, mold may soon form.
Panel mounting
The technology implies a frame and frameless mounting method. In this case, the latter is used only if the surface of the wall does not have even the slightest curvature, as well as poorly adhering fragments. In this case, installation work can be carried out using liquid nails or wood glue. It is necessary to apply the latter not in a continuous layer, but in a zigzag pattern. In this case, the wall must be previously cleaned of dust, dirt and grease stains, since all this drastically reduces the quality of installation.
But in general, the mounting method on frame base. Of course, in this case there is a drawback - a decrease in usable area, but at the same time, not only wiring, but also insulating material can be hidden under the surface. As for the frame, it can be made from wooden beams, or from metal guides.
The wooden frame as a whole is easier to assemble, and it is also much easier to sheathe it - even small carnations can handle it, which makes neither a screwdriver nor self-tapping screws unnecessary. However, the advantages of this approach are partly offset by the fact that you have to spend time on impregnation. wooden surface antiseptic compounds in order to increase the durability of the base. With a metal frame, there are no such problems, as well as with durability. In addition, its components are perfectly even, while wooden bars may have problems with it. However, sheathing such a frame is more difficult - a screwdriver and special screws are required.
In general, the arrangement of the frame in this case is identical to how such a structure is created in the case of plasterboard walls. In this case, the step between the guides should be approximately half a meter. You can read more about the arrangement of the frame in other articles on our site.
As for the installation of panels, this can be done diagonally, horizontally or vertically. If you choose the latter option, you must start from the top corner. The design is assembled according to the tenon-groove principle. Meanwhile, in the case wooden frame the lower part of the groove is fixed with small nails, and when metal frame a clamper is mounted on this part of the plate, which is screwed with self-tapping screws. At the same time, the kleimer itself does not interfere with the tenon-groove design to assemble as tightly as possible.
In this case, the uppermost edge of the top panel and the lower (usually trimmed) edge of the bottom panel are fastened with nails or self-tapping screws. Attachment points can be hidden by skirting boards. Besides corner places also finished with strips or corners, the color of which matches the color of the MDF panels. Therefore, purchase these items immediately, so that there are no differences in color. You can attach them to the same liquid nails or silicone-based sealant.
Unique MDF kitchen
Modern furniture is made from environmentally friendly and durable materials. Talk about what each furniture factory adheres to regulated requirements and standards, it would be wrong. However, no one will argue with the fact that the current materials really have good quality. Consider, for example, MDF for the kitchen - its main features, pros and cons.
What is kitchen MDF?
Benefits of MDF kitchens
MDF stands for "fine fraction". In fact, we are talking about medium-density panels. A popular material is obtained by dry pressing: wood chips are exposed to elevated temperatures and then pressure. Unlike the production of, for example, chipboard, in our case, adhesives, epoxy resins or other artificial substances are not used. It is due to this that the plates have every right to be called environmentally friendly. The coupling is carried out thanks to the lignin secreted by the tree itself.
Non-standard kitchens from MDF
A key feature of MDF is its homogeneous composition. Configurations, shapes and sizes of products from this material can be as different as, for example, from modern plastic. Let's say right away that the wood-based panels we are considering must be produced in the factory. At home" required results And quality characteristics not achieve. We recommend that you stop wasting time and effort. Moreover, the price of the panels is affordable and low.
MDF or other analogous materials - compare and choose
Why should you abandon other popular materials and choose MDF kitchens? Because furniture made from this type of raw material will have a number of undeniable advantages. In order for you to see for yourself, let's make a small comparison of the options.
Classic MDF kitchens
Chipboard is a material that can imitate various shades and types of wood with maximum accuracy. However, not everyone can afford to buy a kitchen with laminated chipboard facades. The reason is the rather high cost of the plates.
Laminated chipboard kitchens
Another disadvantage of the solution is the increased density of the material, due to which fine processing is simply impossible. You may have heard that laminated particle boards are absolutely not afraid of thermal influences. But this is an exaggeration: if you put a hot pan on their surface, the red-hot dishes will ruin it.
Advice! Chipboards can be laminated or laminated. In the latter case, chipboard furniture will be durable and practical. But if the situation is made of laminated material, the period of its operation will be some few years. Unscrupulous manufacturers often do not warn buyers about this. As a result, at the end of the warranty period for the kitchen, the furniture fails and loses its beauty.
Pros and cons of a finely dispersed fraction
Stylish and original design from MDF
A significant advantage of MDF is the environmental safety of the material. Even under the influence high temperatures furniture will not emit hazardous substances (which, by the way, can eat into liquids and food).
Plates have all the advantages ordinary wood, with the difference that their cost is an order of magnitude more affordable. If you need a wood kitchen, but there is not enough financial resources for a natural solid wood, there is a way out.
Original MDF kitchen design
MDF lends itself to fine processing and allows you to get exquisite lines of doors with patterns from openwork cabinets. During a long period of operation, the material retains its original appearance and shape.
Does MDF have its drawbacks? The only relative disadvantage is that the number of plate manufacturers in our country is small. The panels are delivered from abroad, so their cost is higher. However, the market situation has changed in recent years.
What you need to know about MDF kitchens?
Bright design of the MDF kitchen
Now let's talk about the advantages and features of MDF kitchens. Russian salons mainly offer ready-made and fully equipped headsets. You may encounter a limitation in the choice of furniture dimensions. But even this problem can be dealt with quite easily.
For example, sets from Belarus arrive in the Russian Federation various types. Simply put, you can purchase those modules that will allow you to create a harmonious kitchen space to your taste.
Another furniture factory from Ukraine brings standard sets in different configurations. Models of kitchens created from MDF can be 2 meters or more in size.
Speaking of producing enterprises, you can make out several ready-made MDF kitchen options.
Features of completed kitchen furniture sets
The furniture factory will offer you a kitchen that has the following qualities and parameters:
- Execution options - 2 m. and 6 m. Each kitchen module is delivered in individual packaging;
- The set includes corner cabinets. If you want to arrange kitchen furniture along two walls (letter D), this solution will be the most convenient;
- Kitchen facades wall cabinets- glazed frames.
Due to the presence of sashes of the lifting mechanism, they are convenient and reliable in use.
Exciting MDF kitchen design
The Russian factory will offer you its development called Nastya. Its key distinguishing features are:
- There is glazing on the doors;
- All modules are interchangeable. You can create unique interior, arranging the furniture as you wish yourself. The kitchen will look as harmonious and unified as possible;
- Facade kitchen panels are made of MDF covered with matte or glossy protective film, which perfectly imitates the texture of wood;
- The choice of the buyer several options for the location of the kitchen module: along one wall, corner with a pencil case and corner.
Advice! Along with the products you will receive detailed instructions for their assembly (for each module separately).
MDF kitchen in a discreet style
MDF allows you to create not only original and modern carved kitchen facades, but also other masterpieces furniture production. Tables can be made from these boards, for example: also in a wide range of colors and also with carved ends and unusual shapes. Such products easily fit into any interior. They have a spectacular effect that cannot be achieved with laminated chipboard.
Stylish MDF kitchen
In addition, beds for children are produced from MDF - this speaks best of all about the environmental friendliness of the material. The shape of the beds is any - from boats to sports cars.
Advice! The frame of MDF furniture is created using cheaper raw materials - laminated chipboards. You can find furnishings that are free of adhesives and other artificial materials, but its price will be significantly higher.
Now you know about the purchase of which kitchen set is preferable. If you see that other materials were used in the manufacture of the headset, it means that with their help the factory tried to strengthen the structure or decorate it decoratively.
- from high-quality MDF have the following important advantages:
- The maximum variety of options for the execution of facades. MDF boards can be coated with other solid materials, painted or pasted over with protective and decorative films;
- Wide range of configurations. Due to the average density of the panels, manufacturers can create the most unusual and truly spectacular forms of products. If you have your own ideas about what should look like, you can try to implement them. Order and combine modules: you have a worthy choice today.
Advice! If you see that veneer was used in the production of kitchens and other MDF furniture, then the quality of the product is the highest (as, most likely, the cost of the goods). But is it worth paying more? If kitchen set If you like it, then the answer is no doubt yes. Over a long period of operation, the overpayment will fully pay for itself. Your environmentally friendly furniture will delight with its unchanging beauty for years to come. Before buying, make sure that there are extended official manufacturer's warranties.
MDF differs from alternative materials in a number of advantages:
PRICE
The cost of MDF boards is at least 60-70% cheaper than natural wood.
PHYSICAL AND MECHANICAL CHARACTERISTICS
MDF, despite its lower cost, surpasses natural wood in terms of physical and mechanical characteristics, since MDF is devoid of heterogeneity of properties and internal defects of wood, such as knots, cracks, and the hardness of MDF is higher than the hardness of the most commonly used wood species.
MDF warps much less, has a higher density, and such an indicator as "variance in thickness" is practically not applicable to MDF.
MDF is characterized by a uniform distribution of properties throughout the body of the plate
The strength of MDF is 1.8-2 times higher than the strength of chipboard. The strength of MDF is ensured not only by the use of synthetic resins, but also by the participation of natural binders in the interfiber interaction (lignin)
MDF has a swelling coefficient many times lower than chipboard
MDF boards have a minimum difference in thickness and sheet dimensions
MDF does not lose its shape with a sharp temperature drop
MDF does not crumble
MOISTURE RESISTANCE RESISTANCE TO TEMPERATURE VARIATIONS
Due to its high moisture resistance, MDF is used in the production of kitchen furniture and bathroom furniture. Under the influence of steam, MDF furniture does not warp.
MDF very well tolerate the effects of kitchen steam - they do not swell or warp
HIGH LEVEL OF THERMAL INSULATION PROPERTIES
In terms of thermal insulation properties, MDF boards 12 mm are equivalent brick wall 150 mm thick or reinforced concrete panel 260 mm thick.
HIGH LEVEL OF SOUND INSULATION
MDF boards have a high level of sound absorption
TECHNOLOGY THAT GIVES SPACE FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF DESIGN SOLUTIONS
MDF is easily laminated and veneered, thanks to a perfectly flat, unlike chipboard, surface
MDF is easy and economical to paint, thanks to a perfectly flat hard surface, which, compared to chipboard, absorbs paint less, which reduces its consumption.
MDF is suitable for surface embossing, which is not possible for chipboard
MDF is suitable for milling edges, corners and surfaces, which is not possible with chipboard. This allows you to give MDF parts a wide variety of shapes and greatly expands the possibilities of their application.
MDF is suitable for the manufacture of curved surfaces, which is also impossible for chipboard. The technology for bending MDF blanks is similar to the technology for manufacturing bent products from natural wood and plywood.
MDF, due to its high strength, holds furniture fittings much better than chipboard.
MDF will be indispensable in cases where high density rates are required for attaching hinged structures.
ENVIRONMENTAL FRIENDLY
MDF, despite the lower cost, is close to natural wood in terms of environmental characteristics
MDF is more environmentally friendly than chipboard due to low formaldehyde emission - it is recommended to use it for the manufacture of children's furniture, kitchen furniture.
HYGIENE
MDF is resistant to various fungi and microorganisms, which makes MDF products hygienic and safe in everyday life.
FIRE SAFETY
MDF is difficult to ignite
Every person who plans to carry out repairs in his house is interested in using high-quality and safe building materials. MDF panels designed for wall and ceiling decoration are especially popular.
Modern MDF panels are a worthy replacement for wood panels, but at the same time they are made from wood dust or shavings by pressing. Before making a final decision, it is advisable to carefully familiarize yourself with all the advantages and disadvantages of the finishing material, because only a responsible approach will allow you to successfully implement existing plans and ideas.
So, what can you still focus on when choosing and further using MDF panels?
Advantages of MDF panels
Modern MDF panels, which are produced in accordance with all applicable standards, have important advantages:
- The building material is environmentally friendly. In its manufacture, it is customary to use the technique of dry pressing with the addition of lignin, which is also a natural raw material. For this reason, MDF panels can be used without unnecessary fear for interior decoration of residential premises.
- Installation work with this building material is always pleasing simplicity and ease. Laying panels is carried out by the designer, so the performers should not have special knowledge or skills. Often, in order to carry out the installation of MDF panels, you just need to use construction tools. As a result, the repair activities will be completed on-line.
- MDF panels allow you to create almost any design. This is due to the fact that they can be easily sawn and cut to the optimal shape.
- Each person can choose exactly those MDF panels that he likes in color and shade. Moreover, manufacturers can imitate natural natural materials, including wood, stone, brick, granite. Besides modern technologies allow you to imitate even the skin.
- MDF panels have optimal heat and sound insulation characteristics. For this reason, the cost of additional Construction Materials not required. In addition, it will save time and financial costs.
- MDF panels provide the basis for a creative approach to decorating a room. For example, panels are ideally combined with wallpaper and paint, so these options should also be considered.
Paying attention to the above advantages of using MDF panels, you can be sure that they are the ideal materials for interior decoration of residential premises.
Disadvantages of MDF panels
By carefully studying MDF panels, one can understand that they also have serious drawbacks. So, what are the nuances to be prepared for?
- Raw edges of MDF panels can absorb moisture and swell, as a result of which the product is deformed. For this reason, the panels are not suitable for use in a bathroom or kitchen where there is a high level of humidity.
- Panel capable burst if a fist or ball strikes the structure. This is due to the fact that the material does not have even the slightest elasticity.
- Walls on which condensation may accumulate should not be paneled unless they have additional moisture resistance.
- MDF panels can easily ignite. In this regard, it is best to hide the wiring and cables in special boxes. In addition, a special insulating layer created on the basis of mineral wool. Similar preparatory work help improve fire safety.
It is advisable to carry out preparatory measures and installation of MDF panels only with the involvement of an experienced specialist. It directly depends on what will be the result of finishing the living space with modern MDF panels and how long finishing material will please with its impeccable appearance.
Types of MDF panels
Currently, the variety of MDF panels pleasantly surprises. So, which options should you pay more attention to?
- Whole-pressed MDF panels are medium density, perfectly smooth surface. Their advantages include aesthetics, hygiene, moisture resistance. It should be noted that all-pressed panels are ideal for furniture production.
- Laminated MDF panels are similar to solid pressed ones, but at the same time the front side is covered with a transparent film. As a result, there is increased protection against moisture, mechanical influences. It is important to note that the transparent film can give the panels the appearance of real wood.
- moisture resistant MDF panels are traditionally produced from a denser material. Wood fibers must be of high quality. Only the correct manufacture of moisture-resistant panels allows you to successfully decorate the kitchen, bathroom and any room with high humidity.
A careful study of all available products will allow you to understand which option it is advisable to opt for. If desired, you can choose MDF panels that are ideal for the room and can long time maintain their optimum performance.
The cost of MDF panels depends on the technical parameters, decoration method front side and the use of special effects. Amazing variety standard and original panels make such products ideal for almost every person who is thinking about finishing their home after repair.
MDF is one of the most popular materials used in the furniture industry. It has a pleasant appearance, is practical and reliable, and is very environmentally friendly compared to other materials. An undoubted advantage is the possibility of fine processing, which allows you to create exquisite and exclusive furniture.
What is MDF?
MDF is a medium-density fibreboard, which is based on fine chips, more like wood dust, which is held together with a special adhesive. The material is presented in the form of plates formed by dry pressing under high pressure and temperature.
History of occurrence
MDF was first used in America in the 60s of the last century. This material appeared as a result of improvements in the fiberboard production process and was called Medium Density Fibreboard, which means medium density fiberboard. Expensive and hazardous to health, the "wet" process of manufacturing fiberboard was replaced by dry pressing of crushed wood chips. IN THE USSR MDF production was not adjusted. In the CIS countries, the production of this unique material was mastered in 1997. Today, China is the world leader in the manufacture of MDF boards.
Technology and production stages
The production of fibreboard is an advanced process for making chipboard or fiberboard, although MDF boards differ in strength. The process of manufacturing wood fiber boards includes several interrelated steps:
1.Preparation of raw materials
The basis of the material is small wood shavings, which are obtained from logs, peeled from the bark, which are subsequently chopped into chips. Sometimes shavings can be obtained as a result of grinding waste from the woodworking industry. Next, the chips go through the stage of cleaning from dirt, sand, foreign objects. The resulting blanks are processed with steam under high pressure, after which they are transferred to spinning discs. At this stage, the wood fiber is ground so finely that it resembles felt. Next, the material is subjected to thorough drying.
Prepared timber logs for further processing
wood chips
Processing wood chips into wood flour
Formation of wood flour
2. Bonding
The resulting wood fibers are held together by natural resins, which are released from the wood when heated. Also at this stage, a mixture of binders is added, including urea-formaldehyde resins, paraffin. The resulting homogeneous mass is dried under the influence of temperature. Further, with the help of cyclones, air is removed from it.
3. Formation of layers and pressing
The glued and dried fiber is leveled on a special forming machine under the influence of forming rollers. Next comes weighing on the scales and pre-pressing. Then the plate goes to the main press. As a result, a finished material- MDF. Next, the tape is cut into certain dimensions with a dividing saw and cooled for 30 minutes.
4. Sanding
Finished MDF panels are sanded. This is necessary to equalize the thickness, make the surface smooth, and remove possible defects. At this stage, the production process of MDF panels is completed. In this form, the material can be sent to the consumer.
MDF board without decorative coating
To endow MDF panels with decorative qualities, they are subjected to finishing, which may consist of staining, laminating or veneering.
Each stage of production takes place under the supervision of qualified specialists. At the end of the process, the batch is checked in the laboratory for many indicators: moisture resistance, density, strength, roughness. Be sure to check for formaldehyde content.
Advantages
- The versatility of the material. Due to the structure of the material, it is very popular and widely used in various areas of human life: the furniture industry, construction, interior design.
- Practicality. MDF is enough solid material and is not subject to minor mechanical damage. In addition, due to the density, the plates perfectly hold fasteners, which significantly extends the life of furniture, wall or ceiling panels.
- Decorative. A rich variation range of MDF boards allows even the most demanding consumer to choose an option.
- Environmental friendliness. In the manufacture of MDF panels, no synthetic additives are used, which makes it possible to compare the safety of the material with natural wood. The use of natural ingredients makes MDF safe for health. Even over time, the material does not emit toxic compounds.
- Hygiene. Fibreboards are not subject to the natural process of decay, as well as to the effects of other pathogens that destroy the basis of the material.
- Moisture resistance. MDF is not affected by moisture, does not swell or warp.
- Homogeneity of the material. MDF boards are made from a homogeneous mass of wood fibers mixed with an adhesive, which guarantees the absence of external and internal defects. The plates are absolutely smooth and even.
- Lifetime. Compared to solid wood furniture, MDF products will last much longer if properly cared for.
- Heat and sound insulation.
disadvantages
- Easy flammability. MDF ignites quickly on contact with an open flame. In addition, the material may ignite upon prolonged contact with hot objects. The cause of ignition can even be faulty wiring, next to MDF furniture.
- Low resistance to mechanical damage. Despite the high density of the material, particle boards can be damaged if a heavy object is dropped or hit.
- The need for additional drilling of holes for fasteners. Due to the hardness of the material, it is impossible to drive a nail or screw a screw into it, it is necessary to pre-drill the necessary holes for the subsequent connection of the parts.
- Dust. During the processing of MDF, a huge amount of fine dust is generated, so it becomes necessary to use a respirator to prevent small particles from entering the respiratory tract.
- Price. Particle boards are distinguished by high cost, compared to other materials - chipboard, fiberboard. To a greater extent, this is due to the fact that the production of this material has not been established in our country.
MDF classification
Chipboards are divided into several categories depending on the external coating of the material. There are the following types of MDF:
- painted;
- laminated;
- veneered.
Painted MDF boards
Laminated MDF boards
Veneered MDF boards
Most inexpensive material is painted MDF. Painting does not protect the product from mechanical damage and wear. They are also vulnerable to moisture. However, painted MDF boards are highly decorative and allow you to implement many design solutions.
Laminated MDF boards are obtained by coating with a special PVC film, which gives the material a decorative effect. Thanks to the MDF film, it can have various color solutions differing in texture and texture. The surface can be glossy or matte. Due to lamination, the material is highly resistant to moisture and mechanical damage.
Veneered MDF boards look like solid wood and have a very attractive design. Veneering consists in gluing the thinnest plates of natural wood to the surface of particle boards.
Application
The use of MDF boards is very common in various industries. this is due to the high strength, reliability, environmental friendliness of the material. The use of MDF in the furniture industry is popular. It is used for the manufacture of cabinet furniture, commercial equipment, and linear products. Due to its dense structure and numerous color variations, this material is widely used for the manufacture of exclusive luxury furniture. The possibility of fine processing allows you to create unique furniture masterpieces. MDF boards with a decorative coating are used for the manufacture of furniture facades for PVC cladding. Often MDF is used in the manufacture of countertops.
Actual use of fibreboard in construction:
- in the production of doors;
- in the manufacture of laminated floor covering;
- in the manufacture of window sills;
- for leveling walls;
- when creating arches, partitions and other interior elements;
- in the production of wall and ceiling panels;
- as a heat and sound insulator.
The use of MDF boards is also widespread in other areas, for example, when sheathing train cars, trams, buses, and in the manufacture of warehouse packaging for non-food products. Cases of various types are made from MDF musical instruments as well as acoustic systems.
The appearance of MDF made a revolution in the furniture industry. This material is significantly inferior in price to natural wood and at the same time technical specifications is on a par with it, and in some aspects even surpasses it. The material is easy to process, and due to its density and uniformity, it allows the production of curly products. It is not subject to rotting, drying out, does not warp or deform. Today, MDF is one of the most popular materials in the furniture industry.
