using MDF for hive bodies. (medium density fiberboard)

[bayareaartist]

Hi,
I was wondering if anyone had tried this material.
cabinent makers have started using it, it comes in 3/4" thickness, it mills like a charm. and there is no warpage when you are working with it.
I just do not know of the price difference and it's ability to take the weather like regular lumber.

thank you.

[leominsterbeeman]

Too heavy.  
There is so much lifting associated with beekeeping that MDF would really be tough on the back.  

I made a hive cover  and ran out of plywood and used MDF for the roof.  the roof is so heavy that I didn't use it, and threw it in the dump.

[tejas]

MDF 1x6 were used for the base boards in our new home. Last month the ice maker line busted and flooded the kitchen area. The MDF base boards swelled up and all had to be replaced. I would not consider using this material on anything going outside.

[Jay]

Medium Density Fiberboard or MDF is not intended for outside use. This product has many wonderful uses (inside) cabinet bodies being one of them. However, you have already heard two excellent reasons why it is not used outside or for mobile projects. It is made by mixing sawdust essentially, with glue. When water hits it the sawdust expands, deforms the glue and it never regains its shape again. And, it's ungodly heavy (you don't have to move cabinets around once they're in place!). Use pine, fir or cypress! :D