HMR Board: Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Them for Furniture

High Moisture Resistant (HMR) boards are designed to resist moisture and liquid better than the average MDF board. It is made using a special resin formula that gives them extra moisture resistance without sacrificing the smooth quality of their surfaces. HMR boards by PT Sumatera Prima Fibreboard are also known to contain less formaldehyde, making them more health-friendly in the long run. 

If you’re looking for more durable wood-engineered materials for your next furniture project, HMR boards might be the ones for you. Here are several advantages and disadvantages you might need to consider before selecting HMR boards for your next project.

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What is HMR Board and How is it Different from Standard MDF?

An HMR Board is essentially a type of MDF (Medium-Density Fibreboard) that has been specifically engineered to handle moisture better than standard MDF. Additionally, HMR stands for High Moisture Resistance. To create HMR, the wood fibers are combined with special moisture-repellent resins during the pressing process. 

The key difference lies in the material's reaction to water. Standard MDF boards absorb water quickly, which causes it to swell, expand, and break down easily. HMR Boards are designed to resist this swelling and moisture absorption, making them much more suitable for damp environments. This moisture resistance is a key differentiator from other engineered options like melamine-faced chipboard, which relies heavily on edge sealing for protection. You can often identify HMR because the core is dyed green during manufacturing, though color alone is not a guarantee of moisture resistance.

Advantages of Using HMR Boards

• Suitable for Areas with High Humidity: HMR boards are designed with moisture and water resistance in mind. They have approximately 750 - 800 kg/m³ density, which contributes to the board’s prolonged use for heavy item storage and placement. With added moisture-resistant additives, these boards will not bend or expand easily, even when placed in humid areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, or poolside. 

• Smooth & Versatile Materials: Just like the basic MDF boards, HMR boards also have a smooth and clean surface. This allows us to experiment and get creative with our projects, making functional but also decorative items that can enhance the look of our interior. 

• Easy to Clean, Easy to Care: The HMR board’s smooth surface makes it easier for us to clean. Simply use a damp cloth and a little soapy water to get rid of dust and dirt from its surface. If there is a spillage, it is advisable to immediately clean the surface to prevent staining.

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Disadvantages of Using HMR Boards

• Pricier Than Regular MDF: Because of their higher density and special resin mix, HMR boards can be sold at a higher price than regular MDF. HMR Boards need an additional manufacturing process and moisture-resistant additives that contribute to their durability. 

• Yellowing When Exposed to UV Light: UV radiation causes damage to unprotected material everywhere, including engineered wood boards. HMR boards made of bad-quality materials might turn yellow when exposed to the sun. Thus, it is important to do in-depth research before selecting your HMR board manufacturers. 

• Heavier than Regular MDF: The HMR board’s high-density count makes it heavier than the regular MDF boards. While it results in durable furniture, you might face slight trouble when moving this furniture around the room or packing it up for a move.

Ideal Applications: Where Should You Use HMR Boards?

Because HMR boards are engineered to resist moisture and humidity, they are the ideal choice for areas that often experience condensation or high dampness. Using standard wood materials in these locations can lead to warping or mildew, but HMR provides essential stability and longevity. You should specifically consider HMR boards for the following high-risk applications:

• Kitchen Cabinetry: Especially for base cabinets and kickboards near the sink or dishwasher, where spills and condensation are common.

• Bathroom Vanities: Perfect for bathroom cabinets and storage units that frequently encounter steam and humidity from showers.

• Laundry Rooms: These rooms have high moisture levels from washing machines and dryers, making HMR crucial for wall panels or storage shelving.

• Built-in Wardrobes: Excellent for wardrobes installed directly against external walls in humid climates, preventing moisture transfer and mildew growth.

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Those are the few advantages and disadvantages of using HMR boards for your furniture projects. Ultimately, the choice to use an HMR board depends entirely on the environment of your intended application. While HMR shares many characteristics with standard MDF, its superior resistance to moisture makes it an indispensable material for areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms, where long-term stability is essential.

Maximize the use of your furniture products by using high-quality HMR boards produced by trusted manufacturers. PT Sumatera Prima Fibreboard produces its HMR boards using high-pressure machines that help bond wood fibers and resin better. For more information about the HMR board 18mm price and other sizes, visit PT Sumatera Prima Fibreboard (www.spf.co.id).