I have a detached garage that I just had built, the inside is unfinished but I am planning on finishing it myself. I am not a fan of drywall and I really like the idea of a tongue and grove look. I was wondering if MDF planks would be ok to attach directly to the rafters or would wood be better. The garage will be insulated (R29 walls, R40+ attic) and climate controlled. I live in Maryland which can be pretty humid in the summer, would that be a concern in this application considering the MDF would be facing the attic space albeit under insulation?
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MDF planks sold for ceiling should be fine, but you need to fully read and understand the installation instructions from the maker.
Here is on example.
https://pdf.lowes.com/productdocuments/98857456-6192-4bca-9547-26fab50e07b6/09370339.pdf?_gl=1*rfo2e1*_gcl_aw*R0NMLjE2ODA2NTI2MjYuRUFJYUlRb2JDaE1Jd0lDdjJyYVJfZ0lWdFkxb0NSMzhBUWtHRUFRWUJDQUJFZ0trSl9EX0J3RQ..*_gcl_dc*R0NMLjE2ODA2NTI2MjYuRUFJYUlRb2JDaE1Jd0lDdjJyYVJfZ0lWdFkxb0NSMzhBUWtHRUFRWUJDQUJFZ0trSl9EX0J3RQ..
Also consider how you will use the garage, If you will pull the car in when it is wet and/or snowy, you will end up with a lot of moisture in the garage.
If you use it for entertainment or a shop, it will have a different environment.
I would think it likely you would be better off with furring strips (wood or metal) installed to the joist, then hang the MDF on that. would allow for closer spacing and a smoother result than trying to go right to the joists or trusses.
wood is lighter in weight and stiffer, and has a bit of texture as well.
Thanks for the comments, I should've looked at the installation instructions on them as the FAQs and other information made no mention of not putting insulation up against them. The other hurdle that I didn't even consider is since those types of ceilings generally float the spans shouldn't exceed 21'. I doubt it varies much between manufacturers.
Seems like wood it the way to go, I'll just have to insure I prime/seal them before I put them up. Moisture from vehicles shouldn't be a huge issue as what would be in there for the most part typically wouldn't go out when it's raining.
I wasn't going to reply but when I saw the names of the other posters I felt compelled. I'd drywall and fire tape the ceiling first no matter what the final finish.
Mike