Using mdf for shelves. Bcworkz oct 16 12 at 1911. The mdf or plywood used for the bare shelves is 34 thick. Mdf is commonly used for shelving in closets and cabinets because its inexpensive and smooth. When i use mdf shelving for heavy loads i simply beef it up with wood.
It is denser stronger and more durable. Please support my channel. For these reasons it has almost as many applications as. Although medium density fiberboard furniture isnt of the same quality as solid wood furniture it is cost effective often environmentally friendly and incredibly durable.
Dos and donts of using mdf. Mdf is commonly used for shelving in closets and cabinets because its inexpensive and smooth. Mdf medium density fiberboard is an engineered wood product composed of small wood fibers and a binder compressed in high heat. Mdf is an abbreviation for a type of engineered wood.
So adding the poplar facing the the cubby sides means they extend less than 12 into the cubby on each side. But mdf isnt as stiff as plywood and will sag over time. Fixed shelves fully supported on 3 sides will be significantly stronger than only supported on 2 ends. You may have come here trying to figure out why or just wanting to know why to use plywood in general.
They turned out great but were a lot of work gluing scraping sanding etc. Plus tips for using mdf. Ive done these before by using biscuits to make 12 shelves. When it comes to engineered wood mdf is often considered a level above plywood.
From the top the overhand is 34 into the top of the cubby. I dont know about ultimate strength or long term creep but for the same thickness mdf is stiffer than the other options. A substantial front moulding detail will also significantly stiffen the shelf. The full name is medium density fiberboard.
My local yard has 12 mdf shelving in stock with a bullnose edge that looks great and is very inexpensive 105 foot for 12 pieces.