When building or redecorating your house, materials can often drive the price up quicker than you’d imagine. This is especially common for those who want a wood ceiling yet don’t want to pay the exorbitant prices that come along with it. This is where MDF comes in, but can you use it for your ceiling?
MDF has become a popular choice for ceilings thanks to its durability, strength, and it’s tolerance against warping. It is an affordable option for those who desire a natural wood look for their ceiling and can do so without all the extra hassle of modern lumber.
In this article, we will discuss using MDF for your home ceiling. So read on! We have everything you need to know about MDF and how to use it to get the perfect natural-looking wooden ceiling.
What is MDF (Multi Density Fibreboard)
MDF is an engineered material that’s been around for over 50 years. MDF stands for multi-density fibreboard. It is created through a process that involves mixing resin with recyclable wood fiber, that’s then heated and compressed to form a durable wood substitute.
MDF has become so popular in recent years thanks to the semi-positive impact on the environment. The MDF wood panels are made of scrap wood fibers that would essentially be thrown away if not recycled into MDF.
Thanks to certain qualities the MDF possesses, such as durability and strength, some see it as an improved version of regular lumber. This has led builders and craftsmen to use it for furniture, kitchen cabinets, and even as a ceiling.
Using MDF for Your Ceiling
It’s possible to get the authentic look of a natural wood ceiling through MDF wood panels, which is why it has become so popular amongst homeowners in recent years. But what are the pros and cons of using MDF for your ceiling?
There are many advantages to using this durable, eco-friendly wood alternative, and once you do, you may wonder why you didn’t do so sooner.
It’s Easy To Install:
The MDF panels are easy to install on any ceiling to their design. It can even be a DIY project if you follow simple instructions that you can find online.
As MDF is relatively easy to install, it can also be removed easily if you decide to renovate the house at any point. Even if you want a slightly different layout, the panels on the ceiling can easily be taken down and rearranged.
MDF is Durable and Strong:
Even a few years ago, MDF was generally considered weaker than wood. Still, thanks to technological advances in the last decade, MDF is now considered as strong as multiple kinds of wood.
While standard lumber may be susceptible to warping under changes in temperature, eventually causing it to crack, the heat treatment in MDF keeps the wood fibers distributed evenly. Thus, MDF is less likely to expand and crack in hot and humid scenarios.
MDF is an affordable product:
Generally speaking, MDF panels are priced lower than that hardwood, making them an affordable material for your ceilings. Thus, you end up getting a lot more value for your money.
This makes it an excellent option for those on a tight budget who don’t want to sacrifice a natural-looking wood ceiling in their home. It is also easier to supply thanks to its factory production.
MDF is Easy to Decorate:
MDF doesn’t have a texture like solid timber. Thus it is a lot easier to work with when it comes to sanding and panting. On top of this, there are no knots that will shine through your coats of paint.
The Cons of MDF Boards
As with all materials, there are plenty of pros and a few cons to consider. While MDF is an excellent choice for ceilings, you should be aware of the following three points.
MDF Can Be Heavier than Wood
While many would assume that solid wood weighs much more than MDF, pound for pound, MDF is usually heavier. So take care when using it for your ceiling and always work with two people to evenly distribute the weight.
Factory Produced Wood is Easy to Damage
When it comes to sanding and painting your MDF, you should be careful not to reach the fiber core through heavy sanding. Repainting the panels and planks requires a delicate and gentle approach.
MDF Doesn’t Like Extreme Heat
MDF is exceptionally susceptible to extreme head as it’s made up of resin and wax-like compounds. So never leave your MDF around high heat sources such as fireplaces, stoves, radiators, and BBQs as this will cause damage to the boards.
MDF Panels for Your Ceiling
In recent years MDF products have become available in various styles, such as ceiling planks. These have become a popular material to use as a ceiling for homeowners worldwide and can be easily decorated to the homeowner’s preference.
A great product is the WoodHaven Planks, which can bring your ceiling to life with their contemporary feeling. It adds a hint of freshness to any ceiling and can even be used on interior walls.
The MDF planks come in a wide variety of styles and textures. Including natural wood finishes such as pine, bamboo, and maple. You may also find styles such as rustic wood, weathered beams, and even beadboard.
Is MDF a Safe Option to Use as Your Ceiling?
A common question homeowners ask is whether or not MDF is a safe option for your ceiling. These questions arise because of factory production, which often leaves clients wondering if any harmful chemicals will leak from the MDF boards.
MDF is completely safe to use within the home. The finished MDF boards are made from natural wood fibers free from toxic chemicals that may harm your family or the environment.
MDF panels and planks are considered eco-friendly and can safely be used indoors without the concern of inhaling harmful and toxic fumes or particles. They are also regarded as safe to use in children’s rooms and nurseries.
Conclusion
In this article, we have discussed why MDF is a great choice to use as the ceiling in your home. We have explained why it is an excellent alternative to solid wood for those looking for a natural look in their home without breaking the bank.
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