What is Particleboard and How is it Different from MDF?

Particleboard , or novopan , is a wood derivative that is manufactured by applying high pressure to sawdust and wood chips that are left over from the processing of natural wood. Although it comes from natural wood, particleboard is not considered a natural material because a resin binder is used in its manufacture. It is widely used in the manufacture of interior furniture , especially in furniture with large surfaces such as wardrobes , dining tables , TV cabinets and desks . If you want to learn more about MDF, you will find our relevant article here .

What is particleboard made of?

In addition to the natural wood residues and the resin binder that we already mentioned, particleboard is often coated externally with melamine or even wood veneers , for greater durability.

What are the advantages of particleboard?

Particleboard can be considered environmentally friendly , as it is not made from whole tree trunks, but from their remains. At the same time, it is resistant to ultraviolet light and stains , while painting it is particularly easy, even without extensive experience in painting furniture . The most important advantage of particleboard, however, is by far its significantly lower cost compared to natural wood.

What are the disadvantages of particleboard?

The biggest disadvantage of particleboard is its resistance to moisture , and specifically its relative lack of it. At the same time, it has a tendency in some cases to wear out more easily . For these very reasons, particleboard is rarely used plain, as its coating with melamine or veneer is particularly important in ensuring the durability of the furniture .

What are the differences between particleboard and MDF?

Particleboard or MDF? Which material is better? This largely depends on how much (and what kind) use the furniture is going to see. Particleboard is cheaper than MDF, is less dense , and has less resistance to moisture than MDF. So for outdoor furniture , such as garden tables , MDF is usually the safest choice. If you want to learn more about MDF, you will find our article on this material here . On the other hand, for a piece of furniture where the purchase cost is a big factor in its choice, or which is generally not expected to face very heavy and intense use, particleboard may be the ideal choice.

What is your personal opinion about particleboard as a furniture manufacturing material? We would be very happy if you could share your opinions with us below in the comments!