Medium Density Fibreboard (MDF) is a type of hardboard. The wood fibres are glued to produce resin that bonds through heat and pressure to produce MDF. The result is a dense, flat, machined strip of wood. MDF can be easily cut, drilled and filled without damaging the board. It also works well with glue, paint, varnishes, veneers and laminates. Different types of MDF are defined by the type of wood used.
Step One
Alder - Alder is a commonly used wood for MDF. It has a density of 530kg and is used in Europe and the United Kingdom. It is similar to the poplar tree for its soft timber. It is classified as a light, reddish brown.
Step Two
Beech - Beech MDF board has a density of 720kg. Used in the United Kingdom, Europe and the United States, beech MDF is used for making furniture, flooring and musical instruments. In construction, it is used for wood-strip and woodblock flooring.
Step Three
Birch - The Birch MDF board is used in the United Kingdom, Europe and the United States for many different types of construction and furniture. The birch has a density of 660kg.
Step Four
The American Cedar - The American Cedar MDF board is used in both South and Central America for making cabinets, boats and light construction. It has a density of 480kg.
Step Five
The Western Red Cedar - The Western Red Cedar MDF board is used in North America for roof shingles, greenhouse construction and indoor furniture. This lightweight, durable, reddish-brown board has a 370kg density.
Step Six
The European Cherry - The European Cherry is a popular American and European tree. This MDF has a 560kg density and is used to build specialised and decorative furniture.
Step Seven
Ebony - Ebony is an African/Asian tree with a 430kg density. This dark wood is commonly used to construct cutlery handles and craftwork for wooden furniture such as tables, chairs and bookshelves. The wood has been listed as endangered.
Step Eight
Oakwood - Oakwood is best for construction because of its strength and durability. This MDF has a density of 740kg and is used for furniture, fittings, flooring wood strip in the United Kingdom, Europe and North America.