When it comes to deciding between MDF and Solid wood, one usually chooses the latter. Mainly because solid Wood is well known for its durability and aesthetics. So is this an indicator that solid wood is far better than MDF? That just might not be the case. In contrast between MDF and Solid wood, both has its pros and cons depending on individuals lifestyle and preference. This is why every homeowner must understand the features and benefit as well as the disadvantage of MDF and Solid Wood.
Let's look further to understand what is MDF and Solid Wood.
WHAT IS MDF ?
MDF is a short Acronym for MEDIUM DENSITY FIBRE. It is a high-grade composite material made out of recycled softwood and hardwood fibres compressed with wax and resin binder making it into panels by applying pressure and high temperature.
MDF will be perfect for individuals who are looking for affordable alternatives to Solid wood without worrying about heavy maintenance and care.
What are the benefits of MDF
1. PRICES ARE WALLET FRIENDLY .
Unless if you are comparing the prices between high-end MDF to the less expensive type of wood, MDF is affordable due to its inexpensive and low cost. This does not only make MDF an affordable alternative compared to solid wood, it also made it easily accessible.
2. DURABILITY
When it comes to withstand changes in heat and humidity, High Grade MDF are considered as the go to material. Reason being, High Grade MDF expand and contract when there is changes in heat and humidity and unlike solid wood, this will not distort the shape of the furniture thanks to its structure.
3.ENVIROMENTALLY FRIENDLY
If you are the type of person who cares for the environment, MDF will be the perfect options for you. It is considered as environmentally friendly as it is made out of a combination of real wood excess. This means less excess and harvested trees can now focus more on creating valuable products. This will then create lesser strains for our forests.
4.IDEAL MATERIAL FOR CABINETRY
Due to its ability to withstand moisture, High-Grade MDF is the perfect material choice to use when building a door cabinet be it in the toilet or even the kitchen which is very crucial. Besides able to withstand moisture, MDF provides flexibility in choosing its manufacturing designs.
WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGE OF MDF
1.MDF IS HEAVIER
Everyone usually will assume solid wood will be heavier compared to MDF. This is actually not true. Because its so dense, it makes MDF heavier to work with. It's one of the popular reason why MDF are used for door cabinets.
2.MDF CAN'T SUPPORT TOO HEAVY WEIGHT
Despite MDF being widely used for cabinetry, if too much weight is being put on MDF boards that are not designed to withhold such, it might simply sag. An effective way to ensure this does not happen, do combine the usage of both solid wood and MDF for that extra support.
WHAT IS SOLID WOOD ?
It is a type of timber that is yielded from the forest. Solid wood has structures that do not have hollow spaces and its specifics differs among species.
If you are into an elegant and sleek homestyle that says quality to guests who visits your home and are very meticulous in taking care of your furniture, look no further! Solid wood will be the one for you!
WHAT ARE THE MOST POPULAR TYPE OF SOLID WOOD?
#1. EUCALYPTOUS
It is one of the least expensive woods and easily attainable due to its capacity to grow quickly.Not only it is attractive, it is environmentally friendly, and awesomely practical. It is well known for its durability as it is able to withstand rotting and decay.
#2.PINE
Pine wood is commonly used by carpenter and manufacture company mainly because of how easy it is to work with. They are light in weight and are resistant to expand and contract. It is able to withstand rotting and decay provided the pine wood is treated for rotting and decay. This itself will cost more. Then again if you want your Pine wood furniture to last really long, take it as an investment where you will be rewarded with a longer lasting furniture at the end of the day.
#3.TEAK
If you are familiar with the name 'Kayu Jati', then you'll surely know that Kayu Jati is actually Teak wood. It is one of the most expensive solid wood. Due to its strength, aesthetics and ability to resist other damaging elements.
#4.ACACIA
Like eucalyptus wood, they are affordable and durable. If you are concern with the environment, you will be pleased to know that acacia are sustainable as the tree itself can grow in any condition in every part of the world.
What are the benefits of solid wood?
1. DURABILITY & STRENGTH
Solid Wood offers long lasting strength and durability as they are known for the ability to with stand harsh conditions to a certain extent, with proper care and maintenance. And they are suitable for outdoor use.
2.TIMELESS DESIGNS
As the name suggest, Solid wood furnitures itself are made of wood which is timeless. You will never go wrong styling your house with solid wood furniture and it has been used by many generations in the past.
3. Creates that first wow impression
Some people look at Solid wood furniture as a very expensive and absurd purchase while others look at it as an investment to their home. It enables home owner the ability to express their creativity and care for their home. This in turn will create that first wow impression.
What are the disadvantage of solid wood?
1. Expensive Price range
Solid wood takes time to grow and are fire resistant making them more desirable. Think about supply and demand. If there is a high demand and there is low supply, the prices will definitely be on the expensive side.
2. Require greater effort for maintenance & Care
If you are the type who leads a busy and hectic lifestyle, owning a solid wood can be tough, as it requires great effort to maintain and care for solid wood furniture to ensure that it last for years and years .
CONCLUSION
At the end of the day it boils down to individual's lifestyle and preference. When deciding what kind of material you want to select for your furniture, always have in mind what is your personality and how is your lifestyle like. As this will help to narrow down on the practicality and the best type of wood that meets everything said above.
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