Wood or MDF wall panels: which to choose?

Materials for finishing walls have become a subject of close attention from both interior designers and homeowners. Among the variety of options for wall coverings, MDF panels stand out for their versatility and practicality. Unlike traditional wooden panels, which require special care and have a number of restrictions on operation, MDF material offers a lot of advantages that provide not only aesthetic appeal, but also the functionality of the product.

This article discusses the key advantages of MDF panels over their counterparts - wood panels for walls.

Wood panels are characterized by their unique texture and natural relief, but there are some disadvantages to consider.

Disadvantages of wood wall panels:

Sensitivity to moisture. Wood absorbs moisture, which can lead to its deformation, cracks, as well as the appearance of fungi and mold.

Exposure to insects. Wood paneling can be susceptible to damage from insects such as termites or bark beetles. This may require additional treatment and protection costs.

Care Requirements. Wood surfaces require special care, including cleaning and periodic application of protective coatings. Without maintaining the appearance, wood can lose its appeal.

Cost of the issue. Wood panels are more expensive compared to other materials. The cost depends on the type of wood and the quality of processing.

Limited color palette. The variability of color solutions when choosing in favor of wooden panels is many times less than when choosing panels made of MDF or other alternative materials.

Environmental aspects. For the production of one package of panels (on average) it is necessary to cut down 2-3 trees. This is wasteful in terms of natural resource.

These factors can affect the choice of wall material, and it is worth carefully evaluating the pros and cons before making a decision.

Advantages of MDF over wood:

Cost-effectiveness. One of the main advantages of MDF panels is their cost. Manufacturing MDF requires fewer resources, which significantly reduces material costs. This makes MDF a more affordable option for consumers who want to create a stylish interior without investing too much.

Stability and durability. MDF panels are highly resistant to temperature changes. Unlike natural wood, which can shrivel or deform, MDF retains its shape and size even in conditions of changing temperature conditions.

Environmental friendliness. Modern technologies of MDF production allow minimizing the use of toxic substances. Stella panels are manufactured using safe resins and adhesives that meet environmental standards. Moreover, MDF can be made from recycled wood fibers, which makes it a more environmentally friendly option. All Stella panels have Forest Benchmark certification, so they are completely safe for health and can even be used to decorate children's rooms.

Easy installation. Because of their lightness and ease of processing, MDF panels are easy to use for craftsmen and DIY project enthusiasts. They are easy to cut, drill and join, which makes the installation process much easier.

Versatility in design. MDF panels are easy to work with, allowing you to create a variety of decors and styles. They can be painted, laminated or covered with a film, which makes it possible to imitate different types of wood, metal. as well as apply bright colors to create a unique interior. For example, white MDF wall panels Stella is an ideal option for painting.

Changing the shade of white MDF panels is a great way to update the interior or change the color accents.

Step by step instructions on how to properly paint such panels:

Step 1: Preparation. Clean the surface. Make sure the panels are clean and dry. Use a soft rag to remove dust and dirt.

Step 2: Protect surrounding surfaces. Cover the areas that don't need to be painted. Use painter's tape or newspaper to protect walls, floors and other objects from paint.

Step 3: Primer. Apply primer, this is especially important for MDF as it can absorb paint. Use an acrylic primer. Apply it evenly with a roller or brush, and then let it dry completely.

Step 4: Painting. Use a water-based or acrylic paint that is suitable for wood materials.

Apply the paint:

Start in corners and hard-to-reach places - use a brush.

Then use a roller or sprayer for larger areas.

Apply the paint in several thin layers to avoid smudges and unevenness.

Drying the layers is extremely important. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next (usually takes about 2-4 hours).

MDF panels are best suited for painting exactly in a white shade. This is due to the fact that the chosen paint color will not mix with the shade of the panel itself. 

While natural wood will never lose its unique charm, MDF panels are a more sustainable choice for many modern projects. Their cost-effectiveness, durability, versatility and eco-friendliness make them a great alternative, especially for those looking for a balance between quality, style and cost. Opting for MDF is a smart and informed decision in today's design environment