MDF Vs. Plywood: What’s The Difference?

Whether your next project is large-scale construction or a DIY at-home stint, you know that your choice of material will impact the final result. Especially if you are working with wood. Now we have been a trusted name in the lumber sector for far too long to tell you that the choice between MDF and plywood may not be as obvious as you think.

 

Both carry their strengths, which makes them the best option for certain applications, but they also have their own weaknesses. Knowing both can help you make the right call when it is time to build the item on your agenda – be it cabinets, shelves, or something else entirely. Let us break down both of them for you so you can choose wisely. 

 

 

What Is MDF?

 

Let’s start with MDF or medium-density fiberboard. A type of engineered wood product, MDF is made by compressing and pressurizing wood fibers and resin under high heat. At the end of this intensive process, you get a smooth and dense board that is devoid of the grains and knots of natural wood. MDF has uniform thickness and patterns throughout. 

 

Its symmetry and toughness actually make it perfect for building:

 

• Cabinet doors
• Furniture 
• Decorative panels 
• Interior trims and mouldings 

 

MDF can be customized to achieve any finish. So if you have a particular paint job in mind and want to achieve a flawless finish, MDF is the way to go. 

 

 

What Is Plywood?

 

Unlike MDF, plywood is almost all natural. It is made by gluing together multiple thin veneers of wood with alternating grain patterns. This cross-grain method is what gives plywood its immense strength and durability. It makes it more resistant to warping and cracking when compared to solid wood. 

 

You can use it to build a wide variety of structures:

 

• Subfloors and underlayment
• Wall and roof sheathing
• High-load capacity shelves
• Structural applications 

If you are a fan of the appearance of natural wood, you will enjoy the wood grain patterns of plywood. You can stain it for a more polished appearance or leave it exposed for a rustic look. 

 

 

MDF vs. Plywood: How Do They Differ From Each Other?

 

They might seem like close cousins of each other on the surface but MDF and plywood differ quite a bit. In fact, their differences might help you pick the better option of the two for your next project. Let us explain. 

 

Strength and durability

 

Because of the way they are manufactured, MDF and plywood differ in their inherent strength. MDF might be smooth and dense, but it tends to sag under stress or when subjected to heavy weights. Plywood, on the other hand, retains its shape for a long time and can handle heavy loads while being lightweight itself. 

 

Workability

 

At Fonthill Lumber Inc., we have worked extensively with both materials for various projects, and we can tell you that each has its pros and cons. For example, MDF is easy to cut and will not splinter during the process, but it will generate tons of fine dust that you will need to protect yourself from. On the flipside, plywood might be harder to cut, but it can hold screws and nails better. 

 

Appearance

 

This is purely personal preference. MDF does not feature natural wood grain patterns and has a very smooth texture, which makes it perfect for paint jobs. Plywood has natural wood grain patterns, which give you the flexibility to use the material as is. 

 

Moisture Resistance

 

MDF is quick to absorb water, so you can expect this type of wood to swell over time in high-moisture areas. Plywood is better at resisting moisture. You can safely use it in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements if you like.

 

Cost

 

MDF is the more affordable, albeit less enduring choice, while plywood might cost more, but it lasts longer. 

 

 

Which Should You Choose?

 

Between MDF and plywood, you should choose MDF if you need a smooth, paint-friendly surface for cabinets, shelves, and decorative elements. Pick plywood if your project requires greater strength, durability, and load capacity. 

 

Conclusion

 

Irrespective of whether you pick MDF or plywood, you need to partner with a reliable lumber yard to source both. Fonthill Lumber Inc. is one of the leading suppliers of MDF, plywood, and other engineered wood products in the Niagara region. Contact us to get customized wood products delivered straight to your site.