What is the Difference Between MR Plywood and MDF

When you are looking for new furniture materials, it is essential to know the distinction of MR Plywood vs MDF. The difference between MR Plywood and MDF can affect your selected furniture's durability, appearance, and usability long-term. Royale Touche has great quality MR Plywood that can be used in a wider scope of application and will outperform MDF in most cases. Here is a point-wise comparison of MR Plywood or MDF source of your product

Material Synthetic

MR Plywood

Made from sheets of natural wood veneers glued with high-quality adhesives layered cross-laminated pattern like 'veneer superior.' MR Plywood has much of its strength, stabilization, and lack of warping because of the cross-laminated birch plywood it is made with. This allows MR Plywood to be used in all load-bearing furniture items

MDF

It is made from wood fibers with resin and wax compressed into sheets with a smooth consistent veneer. MDF does not have the natural wood of MR Plywood, thus limiting its structural strength and durability

Strength and Durability

MR Plywood

Very strong and durable, MR Plywood is capable of load-bearing furniture use, wardrobes, bed frames, cabinets, and modular furniture use when load or rackable. MR Plywood layered structure means that it will resist bending, cracking, and sagging throughout time

MDF

Moderate strength, suitable for lightweight furniture and decorative panels. Large amounts of weight MDF will sag or break, so it should be avoided for structural or load-bearing furniture

Moisture Resistance

MR Plywood

MR Plywood is made to resist moisture and humidity and will continue to retain its strength and shape when placed in semi-humid environments. Royale Touche MR Plywood is perfect for use in kitchens, bedrooms, and bathrooms where, with potential for spills and some humidity, it will typically receive occasional moisture

MDF

Highly susceptible to moisture. Even minimal exposure to water will cause MDF to swell, warp, and lose density and structural integrity making it completely unsuitable where moisture is a common issue

Surface Finish and Appearance

MR Plywood

Has a natural wood grain and texture that gives a premium look to any furniture application. There are multiple laminates, veneers, and paints that are suitable for MR Plywood letting the possibilities for surface finish range without compromising strength

MDF

Has a smooth uniform surface that is well suited to paint and decorative surfaces. MDF does not typically have the natural texture of wood and usually additional measures are necessary like veneers to achieve a high-end finish but still provides an excellent substrate surface

Workability

MR Plywood

Can be machined, drilled, and shaped to be used in various furniture applications. MR Plywood will support modular styling of furniture, precision can be achieved for joinery and has square-edged panels, however, sharp tools are needed to ensure you achieve consistent and clean edges

MDF

Has a very consistent structure so it is very easy to machine, cut, and carve. With finishing MDF is good for bulk decorative designs but not suited to overly intricate designs. The more you cut or drill it, the weaker it gets

Weight

MR Plywood

MR Plywood is lighter than solid wood but heavier than MDF. MR Plywood provides a very good balance of strength and manageability. It is durable enough and light enough that lifting and achieving rigid assembly into a constructed space is manageable without compromising its integrity

MDF

Light as a feather, easy to use but limited strength means it is typically not considered a good material for furniture or anything that will carry any weight for a long period

Lifespan

MR Plywood

Definitely lasts longer. If maintained properly, MR Plywood will have a solid structure, duly keep its finish, and will hold its shape for decades. A great long-term investment for wardrobes, cupboards, bed frames, and other pieces of furniture we need over the years

MDF

Does not wear well. Over time, MDF deteriorates, it will sag, and become susceptible to moisture to the point where it is not a great product for long-term application. Works well for short-term use or novelty applications but not recommended for long-term durability

Safety and Environmental Considerations

MR Plywood

High-quality MR Plywood from Royale Touche Plywood has medium formaldehyde emissions making it suitable for use in furniture made for indoors, kids' bedroom, living space etc. and is eco-friendly, thus satisfies better indoor conditions

MDF

Some brands are made with more formaldehyde because of the resins used which may impact indoor air quality, but only if not sealed correctly

Cost and Value

MR Plywood

Was not an outright inexpensive product, however is often worth the price, having much higher durability, moisture-resistant properties, and longer usage life. Versatility is better than any other; price is relatively negligible for the value. For wardrobes and modular furniture, it is a product you want to get right and last for many years

MDF

Generally one of the cheaper products available, which would make it a good investment for single use or limited decorative applications, but remember if you sacrifice strength and moisture resistance, you will be looking for replacement costs that could be avoided with MR Plywood

Best Use

MR Plywood

Suitable for wardrobes, cupboards, frames, even shelves and modular furniture. For usable furniture where the strength, moisture integrity, and visual can stand the test of time, MR Plywood along with all its aesthetic options must be your best choice

MDF

Best for decorative panels, drawer fronts, sliding, partition walls, and ornamental furniture. Best suited in lower weight load areas, and very little moisture exposure

Conclusion

When looking at MR Plywood vs MDF and what would appear to be many differences, MR Plywood emerges as not just a better overall material but far outperforms MDF in strength, durability, moisture resistance, and long-term usability. Regardless of whether MR Plywood or MDF has its purpose, if looking for reliable furniture performance it is Royale Touche MR Plywood

Related Blogs

Major Differences Between Blockboard and MDF

What are the Major Differences Between MDF and Plywood