Flakeboard
Definition: Flakeboard is a type of engineered wood product made from wood flakes, chips, or shavings that are bonded together with adhesives under heat and pressure. It is commonly used as a material for cabinetry, furniture, and flooring due to its durability and cost-effectiveness.
Overview:
Flakeboard, also known as oriented strand board (OSB), is a popular alternative to plywood and particleboard. It is made by compressing wood flakes or chips into a dense, stable sheet, which is then bound with synthetic resins. The flakes are oriented in specific directions to provide strength and resistance to flexing. Flakeboard is often used in situations where a strong, affordable material is needed, and it can be found in both residential and commercial applications.
Key Features:
- Composition:
- Wood Flakes or Chips: Flakeboard is made from a combination of wood flakes, shavings, and chips, which are bonded together using adhesives. The flakes are typically oriented in specific directions to optimize strength and stability.
- Resin-Bonded: The wood flakes are combined with a synthetic resin or adhesive to bind them together, ensuring the material is strong and durable.
- Strength and Durability:
- Flakeboard is designed to be strong and resistant to bending and warping, especially when compared to particleboard. Its layered construction gives it a high degree of stability, making it a reliable option for various uses.
- The material is often chosen for applications where strength is important, such as cabinet backs, shelves, and flooring underlayment.
- Surface and Finish:
- Rough Texture: Flakeboard typically has a rough, textured surface due to the nature of the wood flakes. This surface can be smoothed or veneered for applications where a more finished or polished appearance is desired.
- Veneer Options: For cabinetry and furniture, flakeboard can be veneered with decorative wood or laminate finishes to improve its appearance and match the design of the space.
- Uses:
- Cabinetry: Flakeboard is often used for parts of cabinets that are not visible, such as the backs and sides. It can also be used for shelves and drawer bottoms due to its strength and cost-efficiency.
- Furniture: Flakeboard is commonly used in the construction of budget-friendly furniture, particularly in ready-to-assemble (RTA) pieces, as it is more affordable than solid wood or plywood.
- Flooring: Flakeboard is also used in flooring applications as an underlayment, particularly in engineered flooring systems.
- Wall Panels: It is used in construction as an alternative to plywood for wall panels, subflooring, and other structural applications.
- Cost-Effective:
- One of the main reasons flakeboard is popular is its affordability. It is less expensive than other engineered woods like plywood, which makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious projects.
- It provides a good balance of strength and affordability, making it a reliable material for a wide variety of applications.
Why Choose Flakeboard?
Flakeboard is an excellent choice for projects that require a cost-effective yet durable material. It is particularly well-suited for areas where strength is important but the material will be hidden or not exposed to heavy wear, such as the backs of cabinets or as a subflooring material. For those looking to create budget-friendly furniture or cabinetry, flakeboard offers a reliable, affordable option. Additionally, when veneered or laminated, flakeboard can be finished to a high standard for a variety of aesthetic applications.