High-density fibreboard
High-density fibreboard (HDF) is a very similar product to its better known composite board cousin MDF (medium-density fibreboard), the only difference being, as the name suggest in the density of the board. Whilst MDF is normally produced at a density of 620-750 kg/m³, anything over 750 kg/m³ or normally around 900 kg/m³, might be considered as high density. The increased density tends to make the product more rigid and darker in appearance. HDF might also be called hardboard which is a similarly high density composite board product, although there can be a difference in the way they are manufactured.
High-density fibreboard is normally produced in thinner sheets, as low as around 3mm and up to 8mm. It may be used as a replacement for ply products in furniture, for example as backing boards but is generally used as a component part of laminate flooring because it is harder wearing than lower density products and has a slightly greater resistance to moisture, though as with most fibreboard products moisture can cause expansion and blistering. As with any composite fibre product care should be taken when cutting and appropriate equipment used.
The production of composite board products generally uses one of two processes; a dry process and a wet/dry process. The former uses synthetic binders, often formaldehyde-based agents or glues, to bind the wood fibres under pressure. The latter might use steam and pressure along with increased levels of natural binders to glue or cement the wood fibres together to form a board. There are also a number of variations in between the two processes and the environmental impacts of the two types of process can be significant, so it is worthwhile asking about manufacturing details.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Adhesives.
- Blockboard.
- Cedar.
- Chipboard.
- Confederation of Timber Industries.
- Cross-laminated timber.
- Engineered bamboo.
- Glulam.
- Hardboard.
- Laminated veneer lumber LVL.
- Lime wood.
- Low-density fibreboard LDF.
- Medium density fibreboard - MDF.
- Modified wood.
- Oriented strand board.
- Plywood.
- Softwood.
- Timber.
- Timber construction for London.
- Timber preservation.
- Timber vs wood.
- Types of timber.
Featured articles and news
Latest Build UK Building Safety Regime explainer published
Key elements in one short, now updated document.
UKGBC launch the UK Climate Resilience Roadmap
First guidance of its kind on direct climate impacts for the built environment and how it can adapt.
CLC Health, Safety and Wellbeing Strategy 2025
Launched by the Minister for Industry to look at fatalities on site, improving mental health and other issues.
One of the most impressive Victorian architects. Book review.
Common Assessment Standard now with building safety
New CAS update now includes mandatory building safety questions.
RTPI leader to become new CIOB Chief Executive Officer
Dr Victoria Hills MRTPI, FICE to take over after Caroline Gumble’s departure.
Social and affordable housing, a long term plan for delivery
The “Delivering a Decade of Renewal for Social and Affordable Housing” strategy sets out future path.
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
The proposed publicly owned and backed subsidiary of Homes England, to facilitate new homes.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.