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MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) is widely used in interior design projects due to its versatility, uniform finish, and ease of customization. It is a popular choice for manufacturing custom furniture, decorative panels, and coverings, providing a modern and sophisticated look to the spaces.
NB Projects - Home Office Voktum. For this edition, Juliana Boechat and Patrícia Nicácio, from NB Projects, developed a home office with refined, welcoming, and timeless choices. A Pau-Ferro MDF panel surprises with its screen-like appearance, giving the impression that it is detached from the wall. The projects were outlined with the slatted technique in all four corners, as if the panel were unfolding throughout the space in waves. The selection of furniture was designed to combine aesthetics and comfort at the same time. (Daniel Mansur/CASACOR)
What is MDF and what is its origin?
The MDF is a medium density wood fiber panel, produced from the compaction of wood fibers with synthetic resins. This process results in a homogeneous, resistant material with a smooth surface. The MDF emerged in the 1960s in the United States and quickly gained popularity in the global furniture industry. Dani Guardini and Adriano Stancati - Ristorantino Caffè. Impossible to enter the Ristorantino hall and not look up: designed with parametric techniques and artificial intelligence, the imposing MDF ceiling hovers over the 339 m² like a gigantic cloud capturing attention first – probably followed by the countertops and blue deep quartz tops. The futuristic atmosphere with touches of maximalism ideated by the Guardini Stancati office is filled with abundant natural light and biophilic principles. (Israel Gollino/CASACOR)
Types of MDF
There are different types of MDF, each suitable for specific applications. Below are the main types: Raw MDF
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Raw MDF is the most basic type of MDF, composed of wood fibers and resins, without any finish or coating. It is ideal for projects that require painting or coverings, being widely used in furniture that will receive decorative finishes, such as shelves, panels, and doors. Its main advantage is the lower cost compared to other types of MDF, in addition to allowing flexibility in customization with various finishes, such as paint, varnish, or contact paper.
Laminated MDF
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Laminated MDF already comes with a decorative layer, such as wood veneers or plastic laminates, eliminating the need for additional finishes. This type of MDF is ideal for making ready-to-assemble furniture, such as cabinets, tables, and shelves, which do not need painting or other finishes. It is widely used in commercial and residential projects that seek practicality and modern design. Its advantages include greater durability, scratch and stain resistance, in addition to having an immediate aesthetic appearance, with a ready-to-use finish.
Moisture Resistant MDF
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Moisture Resistant MDF (MR) is treated with products that increase its moisture resistance, preventing swelling and warping in humid projects, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. This type of MDF is ideal for furniture and structures in areas that are frequently exposed to water, such as kitchen cabinets and countertops. Its main advantage is its higher moisture resistance, which prevents warping of the material, ensuring its durability even in environments with temperature and humidity variations.
Fire Retardant MDF
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Fire Retardant MDF undergoes a special treatment with chemicals that make it more fire-resistant, slowing its spread. This type of MDF is essential in projects that require fire safety, such as commercial buildings, hospitals, schools, and hotels. It can also be used in the manufacturing of furniture and cladding panels in public areas. The great advantage of this MDF is its ability to increase safety in places that need to meet fire protection standards, offering greater protection without compromising aesthetics or functionality.
Project BMA Studio. Living room designed to be decorated with MDF shelves. (Guilherme Pucci/Divulgation)
Thicknesses and their uses
The MDF is available in various thicknesses, each suitable for a specific type of application: - 3mm to 6mm: Used for backs of furniture, sliding cabinet doors, and decorative cladding.
- 9mm to 12mm: Suitable for lightweight shelves, internal furniture dividers, and small table tops.
- 15mm to 18mm: The most common thickness for manufacturing custom furniture, cabinet doors, and shelf structures.
- 25mm to 30mm: Used in furniture that require greater strength, such as countertops, table tops, and structural panels.
- Above 30mm: Applied in robust pieces, such as large decorative panels and special furniture that require high durability.
Coatings for MDF
The coatings of MDF ensure greater durability and aesthetic variety. The most common include laminates, lacquer, melamine, natural wood veneer, and PVC. Each coating provides different textures, colors, and resistance to the material, expanding its possibilities of use. Additionally, there are options for matte, glossy, and textured finishes, allowing for a broader range of customizations.
Organic Emporium. With only 18.50m² available, product designer Jane Rocha created a customized reforested Pine structure that guides the audience's gaze to the shelves and the displayed products. Recycled OSB panels were also designed to replace the plaster, as well as MDF furniture sourced from renewable sources. Antique objects complement the decoration, highlighting cast iron pieces that, for years, served as the basis for Curitiba's classic street lamps and now form part of the table tops. (Divulgation/CASACOR)
Advantages and disadvantages
Among the advantages of MDF are its versatility, easy handling, and good cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, its uniform surface allows for a refined finish. However, the material can be sensitive to moisture, requiring special care to avoid swelling and deterioration. Breast Cancer Prevention - HUMSOL. Designer Jane Rocha and architect Laryssa Rocha present a space that seeks to inform and raise awareness about the prevention of the disease. Several visual elements refer to the theme, such as colors and circular shapes. The duo used MDF panels with special cuts, reminiscent of delicate lace. The female sculpture represents the image of self-examination. (Divulgation/CASACOR)
Care for MDF
To keep MDF in good condition, avoid exposure to moisture and excessive heat. Use slightly damp cloths for cleaning and appropriate products to avoid damaging the coating. Also avoid using sharp objects directly on the surface to prevent scratches and permanent damage. Another tip is to ensure that MDF furniture is well secured and installed to avoid deformation over time. CASACOR Paraíba 2016. Wine Cellar – Katiana Guimarães. Inspired by vineyards, the project starts from the sculptural ceiling in wood. From it, the wine shelves and a bench in MDF slats are born. The stone floor and focused lighting ensure the cellar atmosphere, ideal for wine tasting. (Divulgation/CASACOR)
The MDF can be combined with other materials to improve its durability and aesthetics. Among the most common options are glass, metals, acrylic, stone, and other types of wood. These combinations expand design possibilities and add value to the final product. Additionally, materials such as synthetic leather and fabrics can be applied to MDF to create unique decorative pieces. Ticket Office and Entrance Gallery - Cynthia Karas. The main element of the 12 m² environment is the 3D work that emerges from the walls. Made of MDF sheets, it is a replica of a work by artist Matteo Pugliese. The colors black and blue do not appear by chance: they are two trends for 2017, as are geometric shapes. (Divulgation/CASACOR)
Applications of MDF
The MDF is widely used in the manufacturing of custom furniture, doors, decorative panels, dividers, and wall coverings. It is also common in custom carpentry projects, allowing for creative solutions for various projects, such as living rooms, bedrooms, offices, and commercial stores. In addition, MDF has increasingly been used in the manufacturing of toys, electronic supports, and structural elements in exhibitions and fairs.
Difference between MDF, MDP, plywood, and others
Cada material possui suas características que colaboram ou não para a resistência a umidade, carga de peso e durabilidade. (CASACOR/CASACOR)
- MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard): Made of pressed wood fibers, it has a homogeneous surface and allows for refined finishes. Ideal for custom furniture and decorative pieces.
- HDF (High Density Fiberboard): Similar to MDF, but with higher density, being more resistant and durable. Used for laminate floors, doors, and furniture that require greater robustness.
- MDP (Medium Density Particleboard): Made of pressed wood particles, it is lighter and more moisture-resistant than MDF, being suitable for internal structures of furniture.
- Plywood: Made of thin layers of wood glued in alternating layers, ensuring high mechanical strength and moisture resistance. Widely used in the furniture industry and civil construction.
- Marine Plywood: A variant of conventional plywood, with a special treatment for resistance to extreme moisture, being ideal for boats, outdoor areas, and high-performance furniture.
- OSB (Oriented Strand Board): Made of strips of wood pressed in crossed layers, ensuring high structural resistance. Widely used in the construction industry and in the manufacture of rustic and decorative furniture.
- Solid wood: Natural and extremely resistant, it is the most durable and sophisticated option. Its cost is higher and requires periodic maintenance.
Project Núcleo - Arthur Lauxen, Bruna Feltes, and Beatriz Matte (Cristiano Bauce/CASACOR)
Frequently Asked Questions about the material
Is MDF resistant?
Yes, but not as much as solid wood. It holds well against moderate structural applications but can warp under excessive weight. Can MDF be used in outdoor areas?
It is not recommended because prolonged exposure to moisture can compromise its integrity. However, if it is necessary to use it in outdoor or humid areas, it is possible to apply coatings like PVC sheets, waterproofing resins, or special paints that increase its resistance to weather agents. Can MDF be painted?
Yes, especially raw MDF, which can be prepared with primer before painting. Is MDF eco-friendly?
Partially, as it can be made from reforested wood and is recyclable. Does MDF get damaged by termites?
Yes, if it is not treated. Therefore, it is important to choose materials with pest protection. Container House. The architects Denise Leal Ribas and Carolina Leal Ribas used reused containers, assembled with a process focused on reducing noise, pollution, and environmental impact. They applied MDF in the Chamois color (Masisa) on the walls and the ceiling received a coating from Hunter. The porcelain flooring (Portinari) ensures the unit of the spaces, super integrated. Proof of this is the suspended TV wall with cables and covered with wood sheets, which allows for a view of the dining table in marble Delfos Superior. The living room also communicates with the outdoor area through the cut in glass. (Divulgation/CASACOR)
CASACOR Publisher is an exclusive content creation agent, developed by the CASACOR Technology team based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho. 
