Anybody ever used MDF on a boat project ?

[gm280]

I realize that 3/4" MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) is amazingly heavy, but the 1/2 " size is reasonable. And being how it is also very very easy to both cut and router and takes a sanding like butter, I was wondering if anybody has actually used to build anything for their boat. I have never seen MDF rot, but that doesn't mean it doesn't. So that is why I'm asking if other has tried it? I also know they make MDO (Medium Density Overlay) that has a white paper type outer finish but I've never used any of that stuff... Just wondering?

 

[Average_azn]

MDF degrades very quickly when in contact with water. I wouldn't use it, even if you seal it. one small leak and it swells like a sponge

 

[gm280]

MDF degrades very quickly when in contact with water. I wouldn't use it, even if you seal it. one small leak and it swells like a sponge

Are you sure you're not thinking of particle board or wafer board? Because I've never ever seen MDF swell with contact with water. But that doesn't mean it won't either.

 

[Average_azn]

I only know because I made a desktop out of MDF once and after a few weeks the surface was swollen all over from beer/glass rings :lol:
I don't know how it will perform if you seal it really well, you could probably get away with it. When i decked my boat i used the best ply i could find because there was no way in hell i was doing that again any time soon.

 

[gm280]

I only know because I made a desktop out of MDF once and after a few weeks the surface was swollen all over from beer/glass rings :lol:
I don't know how it will perform if you seal it really well, you could probably get away with it. When i decked my boat i used the best ply i could find because there was no way in hell i was doing that again any time soon.

Oh this isn't for decking or stringers or even bulkheads. I used exterior grade plywood for those things and covered them in CSM/1708 and polyester. But I had MDF projects for speaker cabinets in the past and the leftovers would get wet and never ever swelled up . I even put some in a bucket of water to see what would happen, and it didn't swell up. That is why I was asking others... You could be thinking about pressboard. That stuff will swell up in high humidity...

 

[alldodge]

Haven't ever used it on a boat project and from what I read I probably won't. Do believe it could be sealed so it would not be an issue for inside boat projects but not for exterior side.
http://www.differencebetween.info/difference-between-mdf-and-marine-plywood

 

[jigngrub]

Here's a few things you may or may not know about MDF:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medium-density_fibreboard

I personally wouldn't use it in a boat even if it was free although I'm sure it would last for a few years if it was properly sealed. If you use it let us know how it turns out.

I have used the MDO that you spoke of extensively in concrete formwork, it is very long lasting in the wettest of conditions. It is also very strong and durable, it has to be for formwork. MDO is one of the best wood materials for boat work and building.

 

[gm280]

Here's a few things you may or may not know about MDF:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medium-density_fibreboard

I personally wouldn't use it in a boat even if it was free although I'm sure it would last for a few years if it was properly sealed. If you use it let us know how it turns out.

I have used the MDO that you spoke of extensively in concrete formwork, it is very long lasting in the wettest of conditions. It is also very strong and durable, it has to be for formwork. MDO is one of the best wood materials for boat work and building.

jigngrub. Thanks for the link. I knew some of that but no all. It was interesting read. I have used it before for speaker cabinets in autos, son's vehicles, certainly not mine. The fact that it is so heavy and solid and glues and machines really well makes it the top choice for speaker cabinets. I haven't had any issues with water or moisture but I guess it is possible. I was mainly curious as if anybody actually used it on their boating projects. And if so, did it last very long... More so just interested then wanting to use it in my boat build. But thanks for the reply and link. I do appreciate it!