Fire-retardant MDF boards are necessary for buildings where fire safety is paramount. They show methods to prevent building structures from damage caused by fire accidents. Aside from that, they are suitable for various interior design projects that help enhance high-level protection for them. However, a genuine fire-rated MDF board should meet certain parameters to gain more advantages. Those who want to choose the right MDF board should know them properly which helps meet their needs in construction and interior design project.
7 tips to find a genuine fire-rated MDF board
Evaluating the thickness consistency
To select a genuine fire-rated MDF board, customers should evaluate thickness consistency with attention. This is because a genuine MDF board will have a consistent thickness on its surface. A board with an uneven thickness is a sign of poor-quality materials, and customers should avoid buying it.
Examining the color and surface finish
Customers should examine the color and surface finish of fire-rated MDF boards to decide their quality. Genuine boards will have a uniform color depending on the type of wood fibers used. Moreover, they have smooth and sanded surfaces that are free from cracks, patches, holes, and chips.
Checking for density and weight
While selecting genuine fire-rated MDF boards, customers should check their density and weight. An original board feels dense and heavy when lifting it that caters to the needs of a project. A hollow or soft sound is the indication of a low-density board after tapping its surface.
Inspecting the edges
The edges of original MDF boards are clean, solid, and smooth which don’t result in chipping or flaking. Since FR MDF boards are engineered products, customers should make sure that the edges don’t have any gaps or visible voids. Also, they show methods to overcome unwanted problems while using them for a project.
Looking for certifications and labels
Most manufacturers offer fire-rated MDF boards that satisfy industry standards. Hence, customers should always look for certifications and labels of boards before ordering them from a manufacturer.
Smelling a board
A genuine fire-rated board will emit a slight wood smell, and a strong chemical smell indicates that a board has excessive formaldehyde or other harmful chemicals. It is wise to avoid boards that come with a strong chemical smell.
Requesting a test report
Reliable MDF manufacturers provide test reports to customers that highlight the physical and chemical properties of boards.