Being in the wood industry for now than a decade now we come across questions about the durability of particle board. Here is an effort to throw some light on particle board.
What is particle board?
Particleboard also called as chip wood is manufactured by mixing wood chips and resin to form a board . while manufacturing the wood is chiseled into chips and undergoes various processes for cleaning and treated to ensure that the board is free from borers.
Where is particle board used?
Particle boards are used in furniture where water activity is relatively less. It can be used for TV units, Center table, wall units, crockery, wardrobes and anywhere except Kitchen and utility.
Cost Factor
The cost of particle board is cheaper by 25-30% when compared with Plyboard.
Myths and facts about particle boards
Myth 1: Particle board is too brittle to withstand the weight.
Fact: Yes, Particle boards are brittle, but not “TOO” as perceived. It can withstand the weight of crockery, books, curios etc. The trick lies in how the furniture is designed and fixed.
Myth 2: Particleboard absorbs water
Fact: The edge banding mechanism is a solution for this. If edge banding is done in a right way, the board is covered from all sides either by laminate or by edge banding and water cannot easily sneak into to get absorbed by the board except for the furniture is dipped in water for long time. However, we don’t prescribe to use particle board for kitchen and utility.
Myth 3: During winter particle boards will bulge
Fact: We have not come across a bulged particle board since 12 years. until the board is soaked in water. Normal wiping with wet fabric shall not make the board bulge
Myth 4: Borer breed in particle board easily
Fact: As said earlier, during the manufacturing itself the boards are treated through various process to be termite and borer free. In fact particle board is safer than natural wood as far as borer and other insects is concerned.
Myth 5: The color options in particle board is very less.
Fact: Yes, There are less colors in prelam particle board. However one can go for plain particle board and later select a laminate of your choice.
Myth 6: Particle board furniture will last for few years
Fact: We have installations of 12 years old without any complaints.
Conclusion:
We have been using particle board since youres without any complaints. They work well for wardrobes. TV Units, tea tables, crockery, work stations and other furnitures. The trick lies in how the furniture is designed and how the board is handles but for that particle board is good for furniture.