If you are planning to install some new kitchen cabinets, there are a few great materials to consider. If you want something cost-effective, MDF is a good option to consider. If you want something cost-effective that also looks good, then thermofoil might be the better option. These two things are closely related, but they aren’t the same, so let’s figure out which one is best for you.
MDF and Thermofoil: The Basics
Before we get to talking about similarities and differences, let’s first figure out what both MDF and thermofoil are.
What Is MDF?
MDF stands for medium-density fiberboard. MDF is made by taking exploded wood fibers, either softwood or hardwood, essentially sawdust, and then mixing that with resin and wax. This mixture is then pressed into large sheets using heat. MDF is a very cost-effective building material that is known for its user-friendliness and how easy it is to work with. It’s also very easy to finish.
What Is Thermofoil?
Thermofoil is a special type of vinyl that is heated and then pressed onto an MDF core. Thermofoil is usually never used for anything else aside from pressing onto MDF to change the finish, and it is generally only used for making drawers and cabinet doors. This allows for a very cost-effective way to make those cabinet doors look a little better while also adding some protection from the elements and staining.
Similarities of MDF and Thermofoil
Let’s figure out what makes MDF and thermofoil similar. Although, as you will see, there really aren’t many similarities.
1. They Are Closely Related
The biggest similarity between these two things is that you would never have thermofoil without MDF. Thermofoil is always pressed onto MDF, which does indeed connect them, at least in a certain way.
2. They’re Both Cost-Effective
Although MDF cabinets lined with a layer of thermofoil will be a bit more expensive than MDF cabinets without thermofoil, both are still very cost-effective. Thermofoil-lined MDF cabinets will still be much more affordable than ones made of plywood or even solid lumber.
3. They’re Not the Most Durable
Although exactly how durable these materials are can vary, neither has a reputation for being very long-lasting. Expect to get about 10 years maximum out of MDF or thermofoil-lined MDF cabinets.
4. They’re Not Overly Fire Resistant
Although this also differs, the fact is that MDF will combust if exposed to too much heat, and thermofoil will more or less just melt.
Differences Between MDF and Thermofoil
Now that we know what makes them similar, let’s figure out what makes thermofoil different from MDF.
1. The Composition
MDF or medium-density fiberboard is made out of exploded wood fibers, whereas thermofoil is made out of vinyl.
2. Durability
Although both aren’t the most durable, that layer of thermofoil on the MDF does allow for a bit of added durability, especially where impact resistance and scratch resistance are concerned.
3. Moisture Resistance
Another big difference here is that MDF is really not very water resistant at all. With prolonged exposure to moisture, MDF will absorb water and start to crumble. However, if there is a layer of thermofoil covering that MDF, seeing as thermofoil is waterproof vinyl, it will help to add a certain amount of water resistance to the equation. This, in turn, not only makes the cabinets stronger but also gives them more resistance to warping.
4. The Finish
MDF just doesn’t look all that great, and if you want to achieve a nice finish, you first have to sand and paint it. On the other hand, thermofoil already comes completely finished, as that outer layer is the finish, technically speaking. Thermofoil also comes in a variety of colors. Simply put, unlike MDF, thermofoil doesn’t require any additional painting or finishing.
5. Ease of Cleaning
The other big difference here is that, because thermofoil is solid and sleek vinyl, it doesn’t stain easily, and is also very easy to clean. MDF, on the other hand, stains much easier and is also much harder to clean.
MDF vs. Thermofoil: Which Should You Use?
When it comes down to it, if you are going to be installing MDF cabinets, you may as well make them thermofoil. Realistically, that thermofoil is just an added layer of protection on top of the MDF that also happens to look rather nice.
Summary
Now that you know what exactly both MDF and thermofoil are, you can determine for yourself which one you would like to use for your next kitchen cabinets and drawers.