Moisture Resistant MDF

Details

There are MDF options to suit all budgets and requirements. Our moisture-resistant MDF boards are well-suited for use in environments that are prone to humidity and high moisture levels, such as bathrooms, kitchens, or utility rooms.

Water resistant MDF is engineered with hydrophobic substances throughout the fibres that repel water and prevent moisture absorption. Waxes and resins create a water barrier within the wood fibres. This allows the MR MDF to withstand spills, splashes and high ambient humidity without swelling, rippling or loss of bond strength that occurs in regular MDF.

While not completely waterproof, MR MDF demonstrates significantly improved water resistance and dimensional stability in damp conditions. The enhanced moisture protection expands the possibilities for MDF in new wet applications.

With a slight green tint, MR MDF offers a smooth, consistent surface that machines and finishes beautifully. The enhanced durability retains high bond strength for overlays and laminates. Painted MR MDF achieves a flawless factory-finished look.

Our moisture-resistant MDF is also now available to be primed on one, or both sides of your sheet making our moisture-resistant MDF ideal for painting. For more information on what MDF to choose for your project, see our guide ‘Choosing the Right MDF’.

Additionally, the light and smooth surface of our moisture-resistant MDF sheets make it easy to mark up for cutting or sanding down, and it can be cut into various shapes and forms with ease using an electric saw, router, or handsaw. Please note that when cutting MDF, appropriate protection must be worn due to the dust particles MDF can create.

Our moisture-resistant MDF is ranked with the Euroclass D Fire Rating, though if you require MDF to prevent the spread of fire, please see our flame-retardant MDF which can prevent the spread of fire by up to half an hour.

Key Features of Moisture Resistant MDF

• Hydrophobic agents resist swelling and warping when wet
• Maintains strength and form in humid/damp conditions
• Minimizes moisture absorption through edges and surfaces
• Added waxes create an internal moisture barrier
• Prevents growth of mould, mildew and fungi
• Ideal bonding properties for overlays and laminates
• Hard, scratch-resistant surface stands up to wear
• Consistent smooth face optimizes painted finishes
• Easy to cut, drill, joint and edge using woodworking tools
• Strong and stable; resists bowing or rippling
• Lighter than plywood for easy handling and installation

Applications & Uses

• Bathroom vanities and cabinets - MR MDF is ideal for bathroom cabinetry where moisture levels tend to be high. It resists swelling and damage from splashes.
• Kitchen cabinets and shelving - For cabinet boxes, kitchen doors, and pantry shelving in kitchens where spills may occur. Provides moisture protection.
• Splashbacks and wall panelling - Used for tub/shower surrounds, bathroom wall panels, and kitchen splashbacks. Handles humidity well.
• Countertops - Can be used as a substrate for laminate or granite/quartz countertops. Resists damage from spills.
• Furniture - Used to construct desks, tables, shelves, and other furniture where moisture resistance is valued.
• Garage storage and workbenches - Ideal for garage cabinetry, shelving units, and workbench tops where condensation is common.
• Flooring underlayment - Provides a stable and moisture-resistant substrate layer for vinyl, laminate or other floating floors.
• Restaurant and bar areas - Used for cabinets, partitions, wainscoting, and table tops in high-humidity restaurant and bar environments.
• Signs, displays and exhibits - Where high humidity or outdoor exposure is expected. Improved water resistance.
• Hotel bathrooms and cubicles - Well suited for hotel furniture that sees heavy use and potential water exposure from guests.

Specifications

Manufacturer's Datasheets

For the full technical details, download the manufacturer's datasheet here:

Medite MR MDF

Frequently Asked Questions

What is moisture-resistant MDF?

With a slight green tint, water resistant MDF, also known as MR MDF, contains a moisture-repellent resin that provides increased resistance to humidity. As a result of this, our MR MDF is ideal for use in high humidity areas or areas of high moisture.

Is all MDF moisture-resistant?

Not all MDF is moisture-resistant. MDF is a porous material, and moisture-resistant sheets prevent the MDF sheets from warping or being affected by moisture.

Can you paint moisture-resistant MDF?

Often chosen for its inexpensive cost to create furniture, MDF can be painted to add some character or personality to any piece. We have written a guide to assist you in painting your MDF.

How do you waterproof MDF panels?

Moisture-resistant MDF sheets are already resistant to moist areas and humidity, however, you can improve its hydrophobia by coating it in an appropriate waterproof primer or paint. 

Can you bond overlays directly to MR MDF?

Yes, MR MDF has excellent bonding properties for laminates and veneers. PVA wood glues achieve high-strength joints.

Do you need to prime moisture-resistant MDF?

Moisture-resistant MDF is easier to paint than other MDF types, however, we still recommend using a primer to ensure an even flat paint coverage. We are equipped with providing your sheets primed for you saving you time and effort.

How should edges be treated on MR MDF?

Edges can be finished with self-adhesive edging strips, solid wood edging, or PVC edging using standard techniques.

How does it compare to plywood for moisture resistance?

Plywood uses waterproof glues but can still separate when wet. MR MDF retains its form and strength better than wood-based boards.

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