Replies

1. 
   jackplane | Jan 04, 2005 12:27am | #1

   As you note, mdf is the economical choice. But it can be heavy.

   The panels could be poplar,for stability and light weight, and the frames could be mdf with an additional layer of primer, and finish coats for extra protection.

   There are also composites available like a foam-core(plastics) which could then have the raised edges sealed, but by this point you're on the losing curve of time/money.

2. 
   sawdustmaker | Jan 04, 2005 01:28am | #2

   I would go with the MDF with suitable hardware for the weight. It's economical, easy to shape, and takes paint well. Seal the edges and cut faces prior to painting, and wear a dust mask.

1. 
   ao11225 | Jan 04, 2005 03:30pm | #3

   Aren't there diferent grades or types of MDF? If so, what is the best to use?

    

1. 
   jaypoe | Jan 04, 2005 03:46pm | #4

   I am aware of two types of MDF. Standard and light weight MDF.

2. 
   jackplane | Jan 04, 2005 04:30pm | #5

   There is only one type of mdf- mdf, medium density fibreboard.It comes in different thicknesses. hdf or high density fibreboard is another matter, too dense.

3. 
   JMartinsky | Jan 04, 2005 05:08pm | #6

   Dear Aro,
   Jay is right, there are two types of MDF, standard and light weight. I have yet to find a use for the light weight stuff, but be advised that MDF gets heavy, fast. A sheet of 1" will weigh in at over 100 lbs, or so it seems. Good Luck!John

4. 
   JohnWW | Jan 04, 2005 06:31pm | #7

   There are dozens of forms and thicknesses of the product, some of them fairly exotic, but you'll never see them at a local lumberyard.  Try to find a plywood supplier in your area, they can tell you what is available.

   John W.

3. 
   notDusty | Jan 04, 2005 06:35pm | #8

                      aro ,

            As far as the material mix goes , one way is to use Poplar or soft Maple for all the faces and door frames and I use MDF for the panels when building paint grade case work. I personally will not use MDF for the box's , extremely heavy with no added strength to it . Instead for the box's especially the finished ends try using Maple plywood , not select white but either a shop grade or whatever your supplier has on hand at a reasonable price . The Maple plywood is much smoother and takes paint better than Birch . Here out West there is more than one grade or type of MDF. When I use it for raised panels I use the 1/2 " higher density type , when you shape the raised panel detail it is not as porous and sands out much better. When I use it for flat frame and panel inserts I just use 1/4" standard MDF.You will cut down on much weight on the doors by using 1/2" .

                  good luck                  dusty

1. 
   ao11225 | Jan 04, 2005 06:44pm | #9

   Great info. Thanks