Im getting ready to build some closet shelving. Ive yet to work with the much-hyped MDF but thought Id give it a try given the smooth finish and low cost. My question is do I need to finish the edges with some sort of edging or can I sand it smooth and ease the edges with a router?
Thx
Pete
This 654-sq.-ft. ADU combines vaulted ceilings, reclaimed materials, and efficient design, offering a flexible guest suite and home office above a new garage.
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Replies
You can sand and rout fine but don't expect to be able to span between supports as far as you would with wood.
.........Rik.........
personally I'd use an edging.......beaded edging always worked for me.......glue and brads.
Be on the edge ; )
andy
My life is my passion!
http://CLIFFORDRENOVATIONS.COM
Agree with you Andy.
to get a little more span out of MDF, he can increase the width of the edgeing from 3/4" to 1 1/2". Still would be pushing it to get over 48" with out sagging with moderate loads.
FWW had an article on shelf spans with various material. Might find it in the archives at Knots.
Dave
MDF routes quite well.
Mill the edge, then tack cloth. Prime with an oil primer, that'll raise the "grain" less then latex. Scuff sand the rough edge after priming, then two coats of paint, oil or latex, your choice.
Do you need the banding Dave wrote about? Depends on the aesthetics and what you're packing on the shelves. The banding wiull certianly lok better and will make the shelf less prone to sagging.
Adding a 3/4" by 1-1/2" front edge piece will just about triple the load carrying ability of the shelf. For 3/4" MDF, a 48" long shelf can take about a 35lb load before deflecting 1/4". Add the edge band and it jumps to about 105 lbs. Long-term creep will bring the total deflection to about 3/8ths of an inch.
In your comparison of shelving boards with MDF, you might want to give a look to Melemine for smooth finish and decent strength at an economical cost.
Edited 4/3/2004 3:15 am ET by rez
On one of my customer's requests, I made A kitchen pantry out of MDF and oak trim.(He had several sheets he wanted to use up) It cuts and machines well, but the fine dust is terrible. Wear a mask or respirator. The sheets are heavier than veneered plywood.
All the above remarks are right on. It's great stuff, except for the weight and dust. Whether you router the edge or band it is largely an esthetics issue. I usually use a round-over bit. A face frame of, say, 1 1/4" poplar would add some strength. Plan on about three coats of primer and paint. This stuff really soaks it up.
There was a great article in FHB on using MDF for closet organizers about five years ago.
Al Mollitor, Sharon MA