What do you know about MDF?

[JazzDad]

Hello. I may not be in the best topic area, but there are a lot of viewers here.
I'm looking for first-hand knowledge on MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard). I like the idea that it supposed to be green-friendly, but wonder if it truly is. I've read that it contains formaldehyde. [img]/forums/images/icons/frown.gif[/img] Also, is this just another variant of particle board? Thank you.

[Gatorboy]

I'm not sure about formaldehyde, but it is very HEAVY. [img]/forums/images/icons/ooo.gif[/img]

[ScottAR]

Yes it contains formaldehyde.
Yes it is a variant of particle board.
And YES it's heavy, around 96lbs. a sheet.
HTH

[RobS]

It's also hard on cutting tools. Use carbide tips and plan on getting dull much quicker than virgin wood. A dull blade can still plow through normal wood (to an extent) but won't have much impact on MDF. It's the resin in the MDF that causes this [img]/forums/images/icons/smile.gif[/img]

[JazzDad]

Thank you, gentlemen. From what I've gathered, I believe I'll stick with the real thing. The cost differential isn't worth the risk. I don't like what happens to particle board when it gets damp.