MDF & Particle Boards

 

Particleboard is cheaper, less denser and more uniform than conventional wood and plywood and is substituted for them when appearance and strength are less important than cost. Since it is less denser than conventional wood, it is the lightest and weakest type of fiberboard, except for insulation board. Medium-density fibreboard and hardboard, also called high-density fiberboard, are stronger and denser than particleboard. A major disadvantage of particleboard is that it is very prone to expansion and discoloration due to moisture, particularly when it is not covered with paint or another sealer. Therefore, it is rarely used outdoors or places that have high levels of moisture.