MDF has several uses within construction but is largely used for furniture building, particularly on the economic side.
Furniture
MDF is commonly used for making furniture, both pre-built and flatpack. This could be shelving, cabinets, or other decorative designs. When joined together, MDF cabinets can be strong enough for general use, though they will offer a lower level of strength than normal wood. For shelving, MDF can sag in extended lengths, so a solid wood underframe will probably be needed. The ease of painting and other decoration methods on MDF will also bring benefits, allowing a wide range of looks to be easily applied.
Flooring
MDF boards can be used as temporary flooring, cut into attractive boards. As MDF has a shorter shelf life than real wood, this is not a permanent installation. It's also worth remembering that MDF and water do not mix. This means that using MDF as flooring within a kitchen or bathroom can be a recipe for trouble, with boards swelling from any spilt water, though water-resistant models are available. Due to its low cost, MDF can be an excellent temporary flooring solution.
Skirting
MDF is used to construct smooth skirting boards for use throughout a house. Due to its lack of grain and defects, MDF can give a pristine look, and can also be coated in a wide range of colours. The ease of sculpting MDF also allows for a variety of skirting board designs.
Window Sills
Due to its smoothness and easy decoration, MDF is popularly used for window sills. MDF can be carved into a rounded shape and painted in colours such as white. When buying window sills made from MDF you should be looking to buy moisture-resistant models, due to the threats of moisture.
Panelling
MDF panels can be used as low-cost wall panelling, giving a suite of style options to your walls. From Jacobean panelling with a grid design, to vertical boards, to more experimental looks. MDF can be cut to size and installed on your wall, and painted over to give a beautiful and unique look. Using MDF for wall panelling has grown in popularity in recent years, giving texture to the walls of a home.
