MDF furniture: advantages and features of the material. Pros and cons of MDF kitchens: features of the manufacture and operation of different types of panels The advantage of MDF is that

Date: 2012-03-12 10:13:36
Thanks to the modern range of kitchens, the variety of their models, shapes and styles, you can choose the best product for any layout. Today, a wide range of products is revealed to the buyer, differing in materials of manufacture and design. A special place among them is occupied by MDF kitchens. Advantages and disadvantages of these products incline many buyers to give their preference to them. Due to the high performance characteristics of MDF, this material is gaining more and more popularity. Products in some aspects even bypass wooden counterparts, since they are resistant to changes in humidity.

Advantages of MDF kitchen

One of the main advantages of such kitchens is that they are not afraid of moisture. Therefore, if the hostess accidentally spills water on them, it will not bring any harm. This result was made possible by the use of a special technological method in the manufacture of MDF. In its production, special substances are used, combined with wood filler. As a result, the resistance of the tree to high humidity is significantly increased.

In addition to advantages of MDF kitchen include their resistance to bacteria, fungi and other microorganisms. The material is reliably protected from their reproduction. Kitchens are hygienic, and almost all detergents are suitable for cleaning them.

MDF kitchens are safe to use. They include urea resin, for the manufacture of which natural ingredients are used, in addition, it is considered a non-toxic substance. If we compare advantages of MDF kitchen with chipboard, then over time no harmful phenolic compounds are released into the atmosphere.

Other advantages MDF kitchens

If we talk about the flexibility in using the MDF kitchen (it is also called medium density fibreboard), then they are in no way inferior to their wooden counterparts. Through the use modern technologies it is possible to produce furniture of various High Quality. Kitchens can belong to any modern style and direction. Exterior finish MDF can perfectly imitate metal, wood or other materials.

The use of veneer is considered one of the most natural designs. In addition, it is simply magnificent in texture and resembles a tree. Such kitchens are perfectly combined with upholstered furniture.

When all kinds of glass inserts are used in the design of kitchens, it looks quite modern. As an example, consider matte translucent doors that will look great in a kitchen of any style. A wide selection of used colors and various shades will help you choose a kitchen for any room.

And the most undeniable advantage of MDF kitchen is its cost. Practical and inexpensive, they continue to conquer the market, repeatedly proving their high performance.

Disadvantages of MDF kitchen

Main disadvantage of MDF kitchen is its high flammability. Therefore, experts recommend the detail to consider the location of the kitchen in such a way as to protect it not only from potential contact with open fire, but also with hot objects. If there is wiring near the MDF, increased attention should be paid to its insulation and safety.

In addition, MDF kitchens are prone to mechanical damage. Do not be afraid of accidental small damage - they will not be able to cause harm, but if the impact force is significant, appearance products will be damaged. The reason for this is that the density of MDF is significantly inferior to fiberboard and chipboard. Modern MDF boards are distinguished by excellent resistance to high moisture, but old-fashioned boards are lame in this regard. Therefore, when choosing a product, you need to be careful.

The above features of MDF kitchens show that they can become the best option. After weighing the pros and cons, you can make the right decision about choosing the material for your kitchen.

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 producer of this plate material is China.

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 method workmanship brought the material one of the advantages.

Advantages and disadvantages of MDF panels

Complete environmental friendliness. Unlike chipboard and fiberboard, MDF does not chemical compounds emitting 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 diverse 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 fire. 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 method of mounting on a frame base is much more often used. 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 a similar 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. In addition, corner places are also trimmed 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.

MDF is a reliable and durable material, which is widely used in the production of cabinet furniture. MDF has a number of features that are important when buying - its strengths and weaknesses that may affect the choice of furniture.

1. Material structure
The structure of MDF determines the high density, uniformity, strength and smooth surface of the board - in essence, it is wood flour glued together under high temperatures and pressing. The particles bind together during pressing paraffin and lignin - a natural substance that is also found in natural wood.

2. Eco-friendly
Binders used in MDF production, are responsible for its environmental friendliness - the minimum level of harmful fumes. Most often, according to this criterion, MDF is compared with chipboard, in which the particles are glued together with formaldehyde resins - and the comparison here is in favor of MDF. The environmental friendliness of MDF often becomes a determining factor when choosing furniture for a bedroom or children's room, where safety is especially important.

3. Durability
MDF board is a durable material that securely holds fasteners due to its dense homogeneous structure.

4. Smooth surface
The smallest particles in the structure of the board make its surface smooth, without roughness and irregularities, unlike the main "competitor" of MDF - chipboard. Thanks to this feature, the decorative layer - enamel, plastic or PVC film - creates a perfectly even coating of the MDF board.

4. Moisture resistant
The material is highly resistant to moisture, especially if the plate is specifically made waterproof during the production process. Waterproof MDF boards are not afraid of temperature changes, mold or mildew. Therefore, MDF furniture for the bathroom is a completely justified choice. However, when buying furniture in a room with high humidity, it is worth checking the quality of the processing of the ends so that the water does not have a chance to get inside the plate.

5. Possibility of fine processing
Another criterion by which MDF is clearly superior to chipboard is the ability to fine-tune the board. MDF can be milled or curly elements made from this material. This feature, which brings MDF closer to natural solid wood, makes it a suitable material for the manufacture of original furniture fronts with fine workmanship, carvings and various decorative details.

6. Possibility of manufacturing radius facades
MDF has a feature that favorably distinguishes MDF from other materials for the production of furniture - plasticity. It is easy to make radius furniture facades from MDF - convex or concave, embodying interesting and unusual design solutions.

7. Cost
According to its characteristics, MDF approaches natural wood, but MDF furniture will cost less than solid wood furniture. But compared to chipboard furniture, the price will be higher. Therefore, today furniture manufacturers offer a compromise: simpler furniture bodies that do not require fine processing are made of chipboard, and facades that combine complex design and original decorative solutions are made of MDF.

7. What is MDF afraid of
For all its merits, MDF has a flaw that is important to be aware of when buying furniture for the kitchen - the material cannot boast of resistance to high temperatures. At temperatures above 70º C, the surface of the plate may be deformed, and decorative coating- crack or peel off. Therefore, in the kitchen, MDF furniture is best kept away from open fire and protect from excessive heat. Also, MDF can suffer from the fall of a heavy object on the surface, which will leave a dent. Therefore, if for furniture MDF facades quite suitable, then as a material for a kitchen worktop, for example, chipboard will become a more economical and functional option.

From the name of particle boards it is already clear what they are made of. Sawdust and shavings are joined by hot pressing. Raw materials for production are taken from woodworking waste (most often these are hardwood and coniferous species). All natural ingredients are held together by synthetic resins and formaldehyde. The latter is dangerous to human health. Low-quality slabs can contain forty times more harmful substances than allowed by environmental regulations.

The smell distinguishes a good stove from a bad one. If you feel a sharp unpleasant odor, then you have a poor quality product.

Now such boards are being laminated, sealing harmful resins inside the product and preventing them from evaporating. The surface of the chipboard is covered with a melamine film, which, with its texture and color, is very reminiscent of natural wood, well, or has a similar color.

The abbreviation MDF came to us from in English and means that in front of you is a board made of medium density wood fiber. It is distinguished by a more even texture, since particles so small that they look like dust are used in the manufacture.

These particles are held together by urea resins, the formaldehyde content of which has an acceptable level in accordance with the European class E1.

We compare the basic characteristics

Strength

For chipboard, this indicator varies in the range from three hundred to six hundred kg / m3. It depends on the group of plates and their quality. In MDF, the spread is not so large: from 720 to 870 kg / m3. This means that the second type of boards is more durable and dense, so that in conditions of high moisture, MDF adequately show itself and sometimes even surpass some types of wood.

Surface appearance

Chipboards are distinguished by a relief surface, so scrupulous grinding will first be required to apply any coating, otherwise the appearance will not be very aesthetic.

MDF immediately after manufacturing have a perfectly smooth surface and no defects.

decoration

Chipboard is a very stubborn board. Even a simple design leads to chips. It is not surprising that most often these boards are used for the manufacture of elements or frames hidden inside furniture.

Due to its malleability, MDF is more often used to create interesting design facades. No chips, graceful curves and intricate patterns: MDF boards are an aesthete's dream.

Advantages and disadvantages

If you carefully read the article, you should have come to the conclusion that MDF definitely took the lead. But each type of plate has something to brag about.

Chipboard classification

Sometimes on the plates you can see symbols that do not seem obvious at first glance. Let's take a look at them.

By placing the stove in water for 24 hours, manufacturers determine which of the three classes it belongs to:

Moisture resistant (thickness increases only 15%)
Class A (by 22%)
Class B (by 33%)

For home furniture, especially for bathrooms, moisture-resistant boards are used, which perform well during use. To increase resistance to resins, paraffin is added.

Obviously, class B is the cheapest, has a rough surface and is prone to chipping.

There is a division of plates according to grade: first, second and without grade. Even a plate of the first grade may have flaws, but the lower the grade, the more there are.

In addition to the above, chipboard is distinguished by the degree of grinding, by what technological process was used to obtain the final product: extrusion or lamination, as well as the size of the chips used.

MDF classification

These slabs also differ in what technology was used. Whole-pressed - these are plates, so to speak, without frills, such as they are. Laminated are distinguished by a variety of colors, because they are covered with a polymer film. Moisture resistant boards are made at higher temperatures and from high quality wood.

In appearance, MDF is divided into:

Covered with a thin layer of veneer.
With a glossy polymer surface.
Painted.

Available. You will find boards in any store, and the assortment will be very wide, since the number of factories, both domestic and foreign, that manufacture chipboard is huge.
Price. These plates will be affordable for everyone. Even with all its shortcomings, chipboard remains the first in sales in the furniture market.
Moisture resistance. This criterion applies to laminated boards.

Difficulties in repeated use. If you often move or for some other reason you need to disassemble the cabinet, be prepared for the fact that the second time the screws will hang out in the holes. Use glue or sealant to fix them. Chips may also appear.

High resistance to moisture and high temperatures. Even in the event of a flood, such slabs can retain their original shape for several hours.
Convenience during repeated use. No chips or problems with re-drilled screws.
High density and strength. At the same time, the thickness of the plate varies from 4 to 22 mm.

High price. It is at least one and a half times higher than that of chipboard. And if you choose a plate with a decor or a special coating, then even higher.
Softness. On impact, a dent may be left.
Easy flammability.

In conclusion, it is worth saying that each of the plates is good in its own way. The buyer needs to focus on his own taste, calculate the possibilities of the wallet and choose what best fits into the design of the room. Perhaps you should look at a compromise option when furniture frames are made of chipboard, and beautiful original facades are made of MDF. The cost will be average and there is a place for a flight of fancy.

Angelica Bondar

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Which is better: MDF or chipboard for the kitchen? In order to understand this issue, you should compare both materials.

Chipboard is made by pressing wood chips and synthetic glue under high pressure. These boards are laminated on both sides to prevent delamination. chipboard is good material for the production of furniture.

Wide range of colors and patterns, easy handling and reasonable price make this material quite popular. Facade lamination can be matte, semi-gloss or glossy.

MDF - a board made from crushed wood dust and organic compounds. MDF is the base material used in the production of furniture and interior elements (skirting boards, decorative wall panels, moldings). MDF is also the basis for the production interior doors. The surface of the plate is covered with a special film or pasted over with artificial or natural veneer.

Types of kitchen finishes from MDF

MDF panels may have various finishes, and this affects the strength, quality and appearance of the plate. As a rule, there are three main ways of finishing:

Lamination with a special film. The surface is covered with PVC film. This keeps the board dry. Thanks to this, MDF is a pretty good material for kitchen furniture.
Veneer cladding. A thin layer of natural wood (that is, veneer) is glued onto the surface. Furniture with such a finish is decorative, looks natural. Unfortunately, the veneer is quite soft and not very resistant to damage, so it requires careful care.
Varnish coating. A layer of varnish is applied to the facade, which forms a moisture-resistant protective coating, endowing the product with heat resistance. Unfortunately, this coverage has its drawbacks. Fingerprints and even stains from water drops remain on the plate.

Advantages of MDF:

MDF is widely used in the production of kitchen furniture due to its many advantages:

Easy to process. From MDF you can make the most complex and unusual shapes.
It is made from environmentally friendly raw materials and is completely safe for humans.
Easy to clean. This is important, especially for a room like the kitchen. The material has a smooth, non-porous surface, so not only does it not absorb dirt, but it is also easy to clean with special products.
Boards of this type, especially lacquered boards, are resistant to grease. They do not leave stains from acids and chemical substances so they can be successfully used in the kitchen.
The countless colors, patterns and finishes available mean that there is something for everyone in their dream kitchen. It is also possible to make the furniture matte, semi-matt or glossy. The surface can be fully adapted to any style of kitchen.
Attractive price compared to natural wood. MDF furniture is available to almost everyone.

Disadvantages of using MDF

Unfortunately, like any material, MDF also has some disadvantages:

Low resistance to water and moisture. Edges not protected by acrylic or metal strips are particularly susceptible to this. They quickly absorb moisture, swell and deform over time.
Susceptibility to scratches. In most cases, this applies to varnished surfaces. It is not recommended to use products containing abrasive substances as cleaning.
With constant exposure to steam, the surface made of MDF can become matte and, because of this, slightly discolor.
When a scratch appears on the facade, it is difficult to pick up paint and paint over only the damaged area. You have to completely repaint the entire surface.
Over time, the material loses its strength and elasticity. Fittings and doors of kitchen furniture begin to loosen.

Features of MDF countertops

High temperature resistant - you can put a pot of boiling water on them.
Under the influence of light, the color of the surface does not change.
Furniture on which the film is correctly installed does not absorb water vapor and water; over time, the material does not delaminate.
Resistant to soft household detergents, as well as stains of milk, coffee, tea, wine - they are not absorbed due to lamination.
Quite resistant to scratches and dents.
May fade due to direct exposure to steam.

These features apply to the working surface of the countertop. You should be aware that in the case of installing appliances under countertops, sheet metal or plastic must be additionally fixed on the underside, which will create additional reinforcement of the structure.

Chipboard - the main advantages and disadvantages

Chipboard material in the production of kitchens is easy to process and maintain the main physical and mechanical parameters. The main advantages include:

The tabletop made of chipboard is quite strong and durable.
The material is scratch resistant. Pollution can be cleaned with household chemicals.
Modern technologies in the production of laminated chipboards provide the production of furniture of various shapes and any colors.

Concerning negative aspects, I would like to point out the following. When buying chipboard, pay attention to the icons E1 or E2. The E1 marking on a product means that 10 grams of formaldehyde was used in the production process per 100 grams of wood chips. If E2 is indicated on the chipboard, then the amount of formaldehyde can reach 30 grams. Perhaps the presence of a toxic substance in the composition is the most important drawback of chipboard.

Comparison of kitchen furniture

To specifically determine the material for kitchen furniture, you need to understand which is better - chipboard or MDF kitchen, and what is the difference? It is equally important to study their advantages and understand the shortcomings.

What will last longer, MDF or chipboard

One of the most important criteria when choosing furniture is the durability of use. This must be taken into account so that you do not have to change cabinets and countertops every two or three years. It is important to decide whether the kitchen facade will be made of chipboard or MDF.

MDF furniture boasts good strength. Obviously, a chipboard product will lose its attractive appearance a little faster. The durability of a modular MDF kitchen is one of the positive features of this furniture. All due to the fact that the composition of the material is almost natural and environmentally friendly. In addition, if properly cared for, the equipment will last for many years.

Chipboard or MDF: which resists scratches better?

Another very important feature of furniture is its resistance to mechanical damage. MDF furniture is resistant to external factors such as physical wear, heat And greasy spots. The situation is worse in the case of steam or water - they damage the structure of the MDF. For a chipboard surface, humidity and high temperature are not dangerous.

The next feature is that furniture components made of laminated chipboard and MDF break about the same. In case of resistance to mechanical damage, such as scratches, chipboard holds the lead. This material is resistant to many household chemicals.

Environmental friendliness

An important aspect is the comparison of chipboard and MDF in terms of the content of harmful substances in its composition. The latter negatively affect human life.

Chipboard furniture is produced using formaldehyde. This substance is used as a binding element. Although the products are divided into classes E1 and E2, and in the first version the toxic substance was used less, furniture made of laminated chipboard is toxic, and this adversely affects health.

In MDF, the composition of the plate is close to natural wood and does not have any negative impact on humans. However, in terms of cost, a chipboard countertop is cheaper than an MDF product.

aesthetic value

Which is better: MDF or LSPD for the kitchen? The attractive appearance of the furniture is another main feature which is very important when buying. Much depends on the desires, needs and financial capabilities of the client. Quite easy to impress guests by installing in your home beautiful cuisine. There is a large selection of colors and patterns on the market, so it's no problem to find something that really suits your taste. If you want a kitchen with a rounded shape or with stained glass, then give your preference to MDF. Chipboard is not so plastic material, and it cannot take such shape. However, the color range is much wider and more diverse for furniture made of laminated chipboard.

The right choice of material from which your kitchen furniture, is of great importance. The type determines the character of the furniture, and as a result, the style of the interior is created. After reading, it is easy to determine which is better, MDF or chipboard for the kitchen.

After analyzing all the main features of MDF and chipboard, as well as the disadvantages and advantages of each material, we can say that MDF is the most environmentally friendly and durable material. However, with regard to the variety of colors, chipboard furniture can be made in almost any color. If we consider the prices of furniture, then a chipboard kitchen will be more affordable. The final decision on which is better, MDF or chipboard for the kitchen, will depend only on your choice.