How is HDHMR different from MDF, HDF, and plywood?

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High-Density High Moisture Resistance (HDHMR) is a type of engineered wood that has specific characteristics that set it apart from other similar materials like Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF), High-Density Fiberboard (HDF), and plywood.

One major difference lies in their composition. MDF is made by breaking down wood fibers, mixing them with a resin binder, and then applying heat and pressure to form boards. HDF is similar in composition but is produced with higher density and stronger resistance properties. Plywood, on the other hand, is made by layering thin sheets of wood, known as veneers, and bonding them together using adhesive.


The main distinction between HDHMR and the other materials is its moisture resistance capabilities. HDHMR is specially designed to withstand high levels of moisture, humidity, and dampness. This feature makes it ideal for applications that involve exposure to moist environments such as kitchens, bathrooms, or areas prone to water spills. In contrast, MDF and HDF have limited resistance to moisture and should be avoided in these conditions. Plywood is also susceptible to moisture damage, although marine-grade plywood is available, which offers better resistance but is typically more expensive.

Another key difference is the density levels of these materials. HDHMR has a higher density compared to MDF, HDF, and plywood, which leads to increased toughness, durability, and impact resistance. This higher density also contributes to its moisture resistance properties, as the denser structure inhibits the absorption and penetration of water.

Additionally, HDHMR differs in terms of its performance with screws and nails. Compared to MDF, which has comparatively weak screw-holding capabilities, HDHMR offers better holding power for screws and nails. It provides improved stability and a more secure grip, allowing it to withstand greater stress without easily breaking or loosening.

To sum it up, HDHMR is different from MDF, HDF and plywood because it can resist moisture effectively, is denser, more resistant to impact, and holds better. For these reasons it is widely used in a number of applications including kitchen cabinets, bathroom furniture as well as for commercial purposes where moisture exposure and durability are important factors that need to be taken into account.

Don&#;t you hate it when you open your kitchen cabinet to take something out and notice a large damp spot in the corner? Dampness in cabinets and furniture can result in both cleanliness issues and long-term damage. But we have a solution for you, and it&#;s called HDF-HMR. This material is the next big thing in the world of furniture and materials. Teeming with questions, aren&#;t you? We have answered them all here!

#1: What Is HDF-HMR?

This is what HDF raw material looks like

HDF-HMR stands for High-Density Fibreboard High Moisture-Resistance. These boards are made by combining wooden fibre chips and forest wood waste through a homogeneously constructed process. The fibre chips are pressed together to form a single layer, removing small wood content to form a robust, higher density board. These boards are mainly used in moisture and high-water intensity areas like the kitchen and bathroom.

#2: Difference Between MDF and HDF

HDF-HMR and MDF are hard to distinguish by the looks, since they are both formed by pressurising and heating wooden fibres with resin. But that&#;s where the similarities end. High-density fibreboard is denser, stronger and more water-resistant than MDF and hence more durable as well.

Watch the video below to know more about HDF-HMR.

#3: Advantages of HDF

HDF is commonly used in high traffic areas like kitchens

• High-Moisture Resistance: Resins and binding agents make the high-density fibreboard moisture-resistant
• Durability: High-density fibreboard is made from hardwood fibres and has a density of > kg/m3
• High Strength: High-density fibre bonding ensures screw holding capacity of up to 10 times more than plywood
• High Usability: High-density fibreboard wood is durable and strong, ensuring that it can be used for a long time even in high-traffic and moisture zones like kitchens and bathrooms

#4: HDF-HMR Uses

Considering the fact that high-density fibreboard is both high density and moisture-resistant, the most common areas where this material is used are high traffic zones and places where there is more moisture. At Livspace, we are replacing the back panels of all our modular products (kitchen, wardrobe and storage) with HDF-HMR (5.5 mm thickness). The reason is that the back panel is closest to the wall, making it vulnerable to moisture. High density fibreboard, being moisture-resistant, ensures that the back panel and thereby the overall unit lasts for a long time. High-density fibreboards also come with 10 times more screw strength than other boards and plywood.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of hmr board. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

Uses of High-Density Fibreboard in Kitchen

High-density fibreboard cabinets in your kitchen require lesser repairs

The kitchen is one of the highest traffic zones in your home. In addition, kitchen cabinets are also very vulnerable to damage due to water and moisture. As such, it is always a good idea to opt for high density fibreboard cabinets for your kitchen. While the high-density fibreboard back panel ensures durability, you can choose decorative finishes like acrylic for a smart and modern look.

Uses of HDF in Wardrobes and Storage

Make wardrobes long-lasting with high-density fibreboard Storage units with back panels made of high-density fibreboard ensure longevity

When you buy a wardrobe or a storage unit, you plan to use it for a long time (maybe even pass it on to your kids and grandkids)! But, if the core isn&#;t strong, your almirah will not last very long. This is the reason high-density fibreboard is used as the back panel for wardrobes and storage units, to make them last a long time.

Other places where high-density fibreboard board is commonly used:

• Bathrooms
• Laminate flooring
• Wall panelling

#5: HDF-HMR vs MDF

MDFHDF-HMRMedium-Density FibreboardHigh-Density Fibreboard and
High-Moisture ResistanceMade of hardwood and softwoodMade of wood fibres from forest
wood wasteDensity is between 600-800 kg/m3Density is above 840 kg/m3Low costHigher cost than MDFIt isn&#;t as long-lasting as HDF
due to lower density and moisture
resistanceLong-lasting

#6: HDF-HMR vs Plywood

HDFPlywoodMade by compressing the wooden fibreMade of veneers (wooden sheets)Lack of natural wood grain textureHas natural wood grain textureLivspace&#;s prelaminated technology
makes it highly durableIf laminated or veneered, can last for
over 50 yearsLess expensiveMore expensiveUsed in high-traffic areas and places
where there is a high level of moisture
(Kitchens, bathrooms, laminate flooring)Mostly used for making custom furniture

Also Read: 6 Popular Types of Wood You Can Use at Home (Including Their Costs!)

#7: HDF-HMR Cost

HDF-HMR is one of the most cost-effective fibreboard materials that are available in the market. It is much easier on the pockets as compared to all types of plywood while providing higher strength. The raw HDF-HMR cost starts from &#;18 per sq. ft. and a prelaminated one from &#;25 per sq. ft. The only material that is cheaper than HDF is MDF.

Cost of:

MDF < HDF-HMR/Plywood

By using high-density fibreboard as the core material, you can protect your cabinets from moisture and decay and also make them last a long time. 

Also Read: What is MDF Material? Is MDF Good for Home Interiors?

How Can Livspace Help You? 

We hope you found our ideas useful! If you want your home to be just as beautiful, then look no further. Book an online consultation with Livspace today.

***Colours and finishes are subject to availability. Please check with your nearest Livspace store to check availability.

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