While home renovations and DIY projects are at an all-time high, more questions and concerns are coming around for materials needed, such as the wood vs. MDF baseboard debate. It’s entirely understandable; even the baseboards in your home need suitable material—however, homes. Homes are increasingly using medium-density fiberboard (MDF), and it’s been used in furniture, bathroom cabinetry, and kitchens; some people are contemplating whether or not this should be used for their baseboard material.
This is the right post for you if you’re questioning the MDF vs. wood baseboard for the suitable material. The materials like MDF vs. pine can genuinely make a world of difference in your home; this includes the feel and the overall appearance of the space. But, first, you need to know everything about these two types of material to make an informed decision.
Using MDF Baseboards
MDF, a medium-density fiberboard, is a cost-effective material for baseboard and casings. So, how can this differ from wood? Well, it’s derived from trees, but the similarity between this material and wood ends at the mill. MDF’s wood source is mostly small branches mashed into a pulp and reformed for building material. Therefore, when shopping for MDF, it usually comes in numerous sizes.
When considering MDF vs. pine baseboards, it’s best to note that this lightweight material will become less durable over time. This essentially means that it’s going to be less sustainable compared to wood. In addition, the extra fine dust that MDF emits during the cutting and installation process can be unhealthy. So, when using MDF baseboards, it’s advisable to wear a mask during renovation. Let’s dive into the pros and cons of using MDF baseboards for your space.
Pros of Using MDF Baseboards
- Flexible material, which can be great for curves.
- MDF doesn’t split
- More affordable, especially when needing a lot of material
- It can be a good substitute for shiplap
Cons of Using MDF Baseboards
- Easily damaged from high humidity and moisture
- Prone to chipping or breaking easily
- Cannot use wood stain; it needs to be painted
- Has the potential not to be eco-friendly
Using Wood Baseboards
Wood is usually the primary go-to for baseboards. Wood is still the preferred option for the MDF moulding vs. wood debate. Since this is the most popular option, even for home improvement stores, you’ll find various types of wood such as Oak, Maple, Pine, and Poplar. For trim work, Poplar and Finger Jointed Pine tend to be the two most popular wood materials base on their durability and economy grade. Unlike MDF, using wood materials for a project will allow for more creative options, such as being painted or stained. If you want something more high-end for your space, you can even opt for Teak or Ipe wood.
While the cost of wood varies based on the type of wood you plan on purchasing, it’s still usually slightly more expensive than MDF. Wood is more robust than MDF; even softwood is considered significantly stronger. If you install baseboards in a high-traffic or high-impact area, MDF would not be the right option due to its lack of durability. It’s also important to know that, unlike MDF, there will be a need for inspection when choosing a wood baseboard.
There is the potential for irregularities such as splits or twists that can occur; these will negatively affect the installation and the overall quality of the finished product. If you choose wood, make sure you know the type of wood you’re choosing, and always inspect the wood before purchasing. You may consider some additional points before choosing wood for your baseboards.
Pros of Using Wood Baseboards
- Eco-friendly building material
- Lightweight
- Can be left natural or stained
- Durable material for high impact
Cons of Using Wood Baseboards
- More expensive compared to MDF
- It cannot be curved
- Wood can split when nailed
- The type of wood can impact the project
How to Decide Between MDF Board vs. Wood Baseboards
Even after all of this, you may still feel stuck on deciding what may look and work best for your space. But, you can think of it this way: if you’re installing the baseboard in a wet or high moisture area (such as a bathroom), then MDF would be the wrong decision. On the other hand, if you’re worried about the cost and installing a large number of baseboards, then MDF baseboards are at an advantage. Lastly, if you’re concerned about aesthetics and want something natural, solid wood baseboards such as pine, oak, or maple would be an excellent option.
Final Thoughts
So, which is right for you? Short answer; it depends. Yes, even the MDF moulding vs. wood material debate it’s just going to depend strongly based on some factors. One factor will be your location, budget, and where the moulding will be placed. In the end, this is your renovation project, so you will have the best idea of the solution and your preferences. Now that you know the significant differences between the two materials for baseboards, you should be able to make a well-informed decision.
