HDF and MDF: properties and working with fibreboard
HDF is high-density fibreboard. It is firmer, more stable and heavier than MDF. It is smooth and has no grain. We laser-cut our fibreboard cutouts from 3 mm thick HDF.
At a glance
| Property | HDF |
|---|---|
| Density | over 800 kg per cubic metre – firmer, more stable and heavier than MDF |
| Our cutouts | 3 mm thick, so at least 2.4 kg per square metre |
| Surface | smooth and hard, no grain |
| Working with it | saw, mill and drill with sharp tools; does not splinter |
| Moisture | less sensitive than MDF, but not waterproof |
| Painting | sand lightly, remove the dust, prime if needed |
HDF and MDF: the difference
Both are fibreboards. MDF stands for medium-density fibreboard. HDF stands for high-density fibreboard. HDF has a very high density of over 800 kg per cubic metre. This makes it firmer, more stable and also heavier than MDF. It is less sensitive to moisture than MDF, but it is not waterproof either.
HDF has a smooth, hard surface. This makes it very easy to varnish and coat. Its high bending and compressive strength makes it the material for laminate flooring, furniture back panels and doors.
How much does an HDF cutout weigh?
Our HDF cutouts are 3 mm thick. With a density of over 800 kg per cubic metre, one square metre weighs at least 2.4 kg:
| Shape and size | Weight |
|---|---|
| Square 10 × 10 cm | at least 24 g |
| Square 20 × 20 cm | at least 96 g |
| Square 30 × 30 cm | at least 216 g |
| Square 50 × 50 cm | at least 600 g |
| Disc Ø 10 cm | at least 19 g |
| Disc Ø 30 cm | at least 170 g |
| Disc Ø 50 cm | at least 471 g |
Calculated with 800 kg per cubic metre as the lower limit – the board may be slightly heavier.
How HDF is made
To make HDF, wood waste such as sawdust and wood chips from softwoods and hardwoods is mixed and shredded. It is then ground into fine fibres. Binders are added, for example synthetic resin glues. A press bonds the fibres under heat and pressure. This creates the high density and great strength.
Working with HDF
HDF has no grain. That's why it doesn't splinter, and the edges can be worked evenly. You can saw, mill or drill it with sharp tools.
Painting HDF
The surface is very smooth. Before painting, roughen it by sanding lightly and remove the dust. A wood primer or sealing primer helps the paint stick better. Suitable options are:
- Acrylic paint
- Acrylic lacquer
- Synthetic resin lacquer
- Chalk paint
- Spray paint
After painting, we recommend sealing the surface, for example with clear varnish or wood wax.
HDF cutouts
- MDF/HDF cutouts, untreated – for painting and varnishing
- All fibreboard cutouts
- Clipboards – made from birch plywood or HDF