Seeking carpentry advice

[tele tech]

I will soon be doing trim work on some 3'x5' windows in a heated dog grooming shop,I need to make extension jambs for these windows and two doors. My question is,has anyone used MDF (medium density fiberboard)for this purpose? I am going to be painting the jambs and the trim so I thought this would be a economical solution.
Any thoughts,advice?
Your input is appreciated
Thanks Chris

 

[Gary from Muleshoe]

I have never used it for that myself. But I would say it might have a tendency to bow and buckle unless you glue and nail it really well. I may be thinking of something different. Is this the brown fiber board you are speaking of? If so it may not take paint to well either.

 

[Bob Huntress]

I would not recommend using that to build out the jams. I always simply cut a 1" x whatever into the needed strips. The fiber board will not have a smooth appearance, and tends to want to split where the nail peirces. OSB is no better, either, except that it is less likely to split. If you do use the fiber board, you will see the difference.

 

[Anonymous-0]

As long as you're painting it and not having to match grain, 1x pine lumber is my choice...inexpensive, nails/paints well, etc. That's what I use.

Glenn F.

 

[Roy Suomi]

Is there a chance of window sweating causing swelling and eventually falling apart..How about pine or fir attached with small dowels and glue..

 

[CH(upstate,NY)]

I don't know what part of the country you're from but if you get winter, condensation around doors and windows may delaminate it.

 

[CH(upstate,NY)]

The new synthetic materials made out of recycled plastics may be a better choice. Not to mention, you'll be "green".

 

[IH2444]

Never use MDF around moist locations, it will just fall apart.

 

[IH2444]

Plus it does not hold screws or nails very well.

Now MDO plywood would be a good choice.

 

[chvet73]

Do not use any form of composite board. Guaranteed failure. Use either pine or the new plastic boards. I had a hard time getting used to the idea of the plastic but I"m finding it to be easy to work with and very durable.

 

[Spook]

I would just buy a couple of boards. My wife has a grooming shop and the moisture is terrific. Also the fiberboard will not give very much before it cracks or breaks. And a building inspector will make you take it out.

 

[El Toro]

Get that synthetic material that CH recommended, I get it from Home Depot. It will last and won't rot. Hal

 

[Anonymous-0]

Thanks to all of you for your replys. I had some doubts about using it,but I think you have "nailed" home the point that it would be trouble. I live in upstate NY also so all the moisture conditions do apply. I will be checking out the Home Depot for the green product. Thanks again
Chris

 

[Goose]

Measure once and saw twice. Or is it the other way around?