Source of MDF/HDF for replacement MFT top.

[jcrowe1950]

Hi Folks,

    I am about to make an isometric table top for my MFT as well as making a larger top for a sawing station using my TS55. My question is what better options do I have beyond big box MDF for such a project. I am in the Chattanooga area and so suggestions from Europe, while very interesting, probably don't apply here. Thanks in advance for any specific product name suggestions.

 

[leakyroof]

Although I’m sure I’m too late with a reply, in the future, give MDO( medium density overlay) a try. More stable in my experience than MDF, and with usually an exterior rated glue in its construction, it holds up well to getting wet. I believe it’s used for outdoor sign a lot due to the exterior glue and it’s smooth paper like top ply( takes finishes well).
  Not as heavy as MDF either.
I’ve made an extension table for my table saw out of it to replace a poorly made stock table from Delta that warped all over the place.
Added laminate as the work surface since MDO glues that easily as well.

 

[MaineShop]

A big second on the MDO for me. We use a lot of it in my shop for jigs and shop carts. It stands up to moisture really good and is super durable. For us it is nice because the local lumber yard stocks it with the kraft face on both sides. Not cheap but worth it. If you are working in a home shop just be aware that it is an exterior product and many times is not carb 2 certified. I know the stuff we get is carb 2 exempt if you are worried about toxicity.

 

[jcrowe1950]

Although I’m sure I’m too late with a reply, in the future, give MDO( medium density overlay) a try. More stable in my experience than MDF, and with usually an exterior rated glue in its construction, it holds up well to getting wet. I believe it’s used for outdoor sign a lot due to the exterior glue and it’s smooth paper like top ply( takes finishes well).
  Not as heavy as MDF either.
I’ve made an extension table for my table saw out of it to replace a poorly made stock table from Delta that warped all over the place.
Added laminate as the work surface since MDO glues that easily as well.

  Not too late at all and thanks for the heads up. I will check into it next week. My alternative is a moisture resistant MDF finished with OSMO Polyx.

 

[Cheese]

FWIW...I was at Menards yesterday and they had 3/4" MDO for $65 per sheet.

 

[leakyroof]

FWIW...I was at Menards yesterday and they had 3/4" MDO for $65 per sheet.

. That’s a good price