What is MDF? A Guide to Medium Density Fibreboard

MDF — short for Medium Density Fibreboard — is one of the most widely used sheet materials in interior joinery, furniture-making, and shopfitting. It’s smooth, consistent, and easy to cut, making it ideal for everything from boxing in pipework to building custom shelving.

At Wood Green Timber, we stock a wide range of MDF boards including moisture-resistant, white-faced, veneered, and decorative bead & butt panels, all available for cut-to-size and local delivery across North London and Hertfordshire.

What is MDF Made From?

MDF is made by breaking down wood fibres into a fine, fluffy texture, then combining them with resin and pressing them into dense, flat sheets. The result is a board that has no grain or knots, which machines cleanly and gives a consistent finish.

Unlike natural timber or plywood, MDF doesn’t splinter or chip as easily, making it great for shaping, routing, drilling and detailed work. Its uniform density and smooth surface also make it a go-to choice for painting, veneering, or laminating.

What is MDF Used For?

MDF is incredibly versatile and used across a huge range of interior applications. Common uses include:

• Cabinetry and furniture making

• Built-in wardrobes and cupboards

• Shelving and storage units

• Wall panelling and boxing in

• Skirting, architraves and mouldings

• Shopfitting and interior displays

• Decorative detailing (especially with routed edges)

It’s not recommended for external use, but with the right finish or by choosing moisture-resistant grades, it performs brilliantly in most dry or humid internal environments.

Types of MDF We Stock at Wood Green Timber

We’ve got all the popular MDF board types ready to go:

Standard MDF

Perfect for general-purpose interior joinery and panelling.

Moisture-Resistant MDF (Green Core)

Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and utility rooms where humidity is a concern.

White-Faced MDF

Great for clean, modern finishes – no need to paint.

Oak-Faced & Veneered MDF

Premium options for furniture, shelving and display work.

Bead & Butt MDF Sheets

Decorative panels with a classic tongue-and-groove look – ideal for wall cladding and feature walls.

Flexible MDF

Used for curved joinery, rounded panels, arches and design features.

Fire-Rated MDF (Available to Order)

Suitable for commercial or regulatory settings – delivery within 2–3 working days.

All boards can be cut to size at our Wood Green branch — just send us your cutting list and we’ll get it done, usually same or next-day.

Why Choose MDF?

• Smooth, paintable surface

• Easy to cut, rout and machine

• No knots or grain = consistent finish

• Wide range of types and sizes

• Affordable and reliable for interior use

Whether you're building bespoke furniture or fitting out a shop, MDF gives you a clean and consistent material to work with — and when you buy from Wood Green Timber, we’ll make sure you get exactly what you need, cut to size and ready to go.

Need MDF for Your Project?

We’ve been supplying MDF to builders, joiners and DIYers across North London and Hertfordshire for over 40 years. With high stock levels, expert advice, and fast turnaround, we’re here to help you get the job done properly.

Drop by our Wood Green or Potters Bar branches, give us a call, or order online for collection or local delivery.