What is MDF and Why is it Used in My Home?

MDF stands for medium density fiberboard. It is basically what many people called particle board or pressed plywood. What makes it stand out is that there are certain safety issues that have many homeowners concerned. You can safely live with this material if you understand what the various risks are and how to avoid them.

During the process of making MDF sawdust and tiny shreds of wood are pressed together, making a single board. During the pressing process it is glued together. The material is glued with a substance called urea formaldehyde. Of course, this is where the problem lies.

Formaldehyde is potentially dangerous to humans, especially if the boards are cut or are close to the general living quarters. Cutting the pieces throws particles into the air which are often breathed in. These particles then rest in the lungs and are considered highly dangerous. There is a chance that inhaling the substance can cause cancer.

Typically, MDF is used in certain things like furniture, inside walls, and under floors. It is very cheap to purchase so builders can save a lot of money when using it. Most people can live free from danger when the material is tucked away. Certain types of exposure create a much greater risk to the people living in the home.

A house fire is filled with all kinds of chemicals that can be inhaled during the process of escape. One of the big dangers of using this type of board is that the fumes of a house fire can be laced with formaldehyde along with other substances. This can cause serious problems in the lungs immediately following exposure as well as years after the event.

There has not been adequate research done to indicate the true safety level of exposure in furniture. Many bookshelves and couch frames are made from this material. Wood veneer furniture often has a layer of higher quality wood on the outside and low quality medium density fiberboard on the inside. Chances are that is how your kitchen cabinets were made.

While there are not enough studies to indicate the true effects of MDF the studies that exist show an elevated risk of cancer. Never willingly expose yourself to the dust or fumes from burning this material. Consider replacing furniture with this material with furniture that has been crafted from pine, oak, or other wood that is not pressed. Pressed board that is laced with formaldehyde should be considered a moderate health hazard when it is not confined from the living area. Some suggest having it in the home at all can cause serious health problems, yet there is no scientific evidence to back up these claims.