MDF Kitchens Disadvantages: Major Cons Of Not Using MDF In Kitchens

Major Cons Of Not Using MDF In Kitchens

MDF (medium-density fiberboard), is basically an engineered wood that is obtained by breaking down the hardwood as well as softwood composites. Since it is made from small wood fibers, so there are no visible wood grains. The main points that the user should consider before using it in kitchens are mentioned below:

Can not Repair MDF Cabinet Door

When the user installs the MDF cabinet doors in the kitchen, then they must be aware of its con to accept the scratches. If the user brushes up against the surface using a pair of jeans on it, this can easily scuff the door. If a scratch happens, then it cannot be easily repaired. The user can sand a solid wooden door to remove the surface damage, but not in the case of MDF. The user will need to apply a matching stain to cover up all the cracks, use putty for deep marks, or replace the entire cabinet door.

Do Not Work Well In Extreme Heat

If it is kept inside or underneath shade outside of a patio or porch, then the user can avoid this disadvantage. Otherwise, when the MDF receives exposure to extreme heat, then the inside or core materials of the MDF can easily break down. That makes it important to completely replace it because it cannot be repaired. This con is the reason why it is usually not considered for outdoor kitchens.

Does Not Retain Its Value

Kitchen furniture, as well as cabinetry that is made from the solid wood, tends to have its long-term value better than those made from medium-density fiberboard.

MDF Cabinet Doors Cannot Be Stained

The user has only one decorating option with medium-density fiberboard that is painting. The user cannot stain the cabinet doors. The MDF material will soak everything up and will start to swell. Since there is not any visible wood grain on MDF, so there is no point in staining it because the product will not look nice at all.

Might Contain Urea-Formaldehyde

There are some of the medium-density fiberboards that contain VOCs such as urea-formaldehyde. The user can minimize the off-gassing in some kitchens or bathrooms by applying an immediate layer of paint, but the user cannot sand or cut the material because of this con. If the user does saw into the cabinet doors, then they must take care to avoid inhaling any of the particles.

Less Density To MDF Cabinet Doors

When the user chooses the medium-density fiberboard over the solid wood for the cabinet doors or any other kitchen furniture, then they are choosing a product that is not as dense, which, in turn, means the user needs to be very careful about how to install the hinges on the doors. The screws need to be attached at closer intervals to stripping issues. It also will not take the modifications very well.