Michael Tucker
Hello Antonia, We would recommend MDF ever time. Regards Michael
What type of skirting is better wooden or MDF?
Posted by Antonia Brooks, on
I want to replace my skirting boards soon and I want to know whether to get wooden or MDF ones. I have heard that MDF dust causes cancer if breathed in when it is being cut. What should I go for?
Mark Fletcher
Hi Antonia, It really depends on how you are going to finish the skirting. If you're just going to paint it, then MDF is the better option, as it's much easier to paint. With wood, in order to paint it and get a good finish, you need to use knotting solution (or the knots will bleed through the paint), possibly fill the knots, sand them, prime, undercoat and paint. MDF takes a lot less work and will generally be more stable (less prone to shrinkage etc). However, if you want a natural wood look, then obviously real wood is the only way to go. MDF is not a very nice substance, or environmentally friendly. Whilst it can be hazardous to your health, you are unlikely to have any problems from just using it a few times. However, I would always recommend a dust mask, even if you're just cutting it on the odd occasion.
