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I am installing MDF (medium density fiberboard) as an alternative to real wood trim. I realize when working with wood all inside corners should be coped, however, any thoughts on whether this is necessary for MDF or would miters be acceptable? MDF is a relatively new product in my area, so any thoughts on its use would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
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Coping inside corners is more a function of getting a tight fit in non-90 corners as it is expansion and contraction. So....to me....the same rules apply....no matter the materials used.
And....MDF is so easy to cope......why not.
Keep in mind.....if the corners ARE close enough to 90's that you could fly thru and have nice tight miters.....I'm not convinced that copes have any advantage over miters. But......for now.......that's what the boss wants....that's what the boss gets. Jeff
*RKC:I find that MDF tends to break when coped, especially if you like to cut a little long and snap it in. When using MDF we have better luck checking for square and cutting out of square if necessary.
*try a grinder but jesus what a mess but it's quick i got a hitachi 41/2 "80grit disc and do it outside. you'll not belive the dust. on the plus side i like the end product. i can hear the comments now, but hey give it a try.
*kip don't laugh. that's exactly how I cope oak crown. I use 32 grit. dusty as hell, but man it works.
*MDF for trim?Why bother. I wouldn't waste my time coping trash.(I sure to hear an ear full on that one.)Ed.
*I used MDF in my family room because of it's dimensional stability. I coped it using the same coping saw I use for solid wood trim. It was very easy and because it I prepainted it the line was easier to follow, I tweaked the cuts with a course file, not much dust. One year later the crown is dead nuts perfect, no cracks or bulges from the wood swelling or shrinking due to changing humidity or temperature. I also have a fireplace in the room, which I use often in the winter, which causes significant temperature changes. For crown I would use MDF again.
*Hey Gents,Sorry for my response. I don't like MDF products so I shouldn't have posted to this thread.There is a place for everything.Regards,Ed.
*Ed,I'll help ya out a bit here. I hate the stuff too. I refuse to use it, and have none in my house. Personally, I consider the stuff as the bottom of the barrel for quality. Just my opinion, ya understand. Now there are two of us that do not like the stuff.James DuHamel
*why would you worry about these joints either way?I mean it's gonna get paint I guess so caulk it and there you go...I don't like the stuff but my kids like to eat- so if that is the product of the day- I'll make it look like it grew there...
*For Paint Grade Trim, there is nothing better than MDF. It takes paint like a sponge, is easy to bend and manipulate, and can be calked with a gun and your finger.
*Scooter,i For Paint Grade Trim, there is nothing better than MDFThat's your opinion. James DuHamel
*I'd consider using MDF for two things:1) Cabinet or carcass backs, where I usually run a "V" groove down the sheet (dado blade on a 45 degree tilt on the table saw) every 4" or so to mimic T&G boards.2) Flat panels for wainscotting.I hated the old sheets that weighted a ton because they were so darn heavy. I now hate the ultralite because it dings to easily. So, when I use MDF, it's the old, hated, heavy stuff vs the newer, hated, light stuff.Keep it well away from water...even chance encounters.
*Ed, James:Make that three of us....nuff sed.
*You're correct of course Scooter; however, there will always be those who resist the change to newer methods/materials: plywood and drywall in their day for example.
*Phil,Get a grip on reality buddy. You also have an opinion, but that's all it is, an opinion. MDF is not the best material for trim, doors, or any other project where I live. I don't care how much you seal it, paint it, etc... the HIGH humidity levels (both indoor and outdoor) that we have to deal with here make this material undesireable for quality work. Here, we use poplar as much as possible. Takes paint well, and doesn't swell or warp like MDF. Experience using MDF here tells us that there is a better product FOR US. I lean toward new materials every chance I get. I try to stay ahead of the pack, and on the cutting edge of new technology and products. I also have to stick with materials and methods that work best for the environment I use them in. It has absolutely NOTHING to do with resistance to change. Again, MDF may be YOUR choice as best material to use, but that is your opinion. Saying that it is THE best material period is stating a fact that is just not true.Just an opinion...James DuHamel
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I am installing MDF (medium density fiberboard) as an alternative to real wood trim. I realize when working with wood all inside corners should be coped, however, any thoughts on whether this is necessary for MDF or would miters be acceptable? MDF is a relatively new product in my area, so any thoughts on its use would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.