Chipboard is a widely used material, often found in most furniture. This material is sturdy, versatile, and efficient. However, it often goes unnoticed and unappreciated.

So, what exactly is chipboard, and how is it made? Today, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about chipboard to update your construction knowledge.

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional builder, read on to discover how chipboard can take your work to the next level.

What is Chipboard?

Chipboard, also known as particle board, is an engineered wood product made from wood chips, sawdust, and sawmill shavings.

The most common types of chipboard include:

Standard chipboard: This is the most basic type of chipboard which is used in veneered or laminated furniture.
High-density chipboard (HDC): This has a higher density than other types of chipboard, making it more durable. This is ideal for countertops and flooring.
Melamine Coated Chipboard: This chipboard has a decorative surface and protective finish, ideal for creating a beautiful appearance. This is often used for cabinets, shelves, and other furniture pieces.

What is Chipboard Commonly Used for?

Chipboard is used for various applications in construction. The most common uses include:

Furniture making: Chipboard is often used to construct wardrobes and kitchen units due to its affordability and ease of use.
Flooring: High-density chipboard is a popular substrate for flooring since it’s sturdy and long-lasting.
Packaging: Chipboard is often used in packaging materials due to its strength and lightweight design.
DIY projects: As it's budget-friendly and easy to use, chipboard is a go-to material for DIY projects.

How is Chipboard Made?

The manufacturing process of chipboard involves converting waste wood materials into a robust, eco-friendly, and versatile product.

This involves:

1. Collection and preparation

Wood chips, sawdust, and other wood residues are collected and sorted through to remove any contaminants.

Larger pieces of wood are broken down for a confident density.

2. Drying

The wood particles are dried to remove any moisture content in large rotary dryers.

Around 2-3% moisture is left in the wood.

3. Mixing with resin

Once the wood particles have been dried with a synthetic resin binder, the resin acts as a glue to hold the particles together.

Additives, such as wax and hardeners, are also added to improve moisture resistance.

4. Forming the mat

After this, the wood particles are spread into a mat using a spreader machine for even distribution.

The thickness of the mat determines the thickness of the final chipboard.

5. Pressing

This mat then undergoes hot pressing, which involves subjecting it to high pressure and temperature in a multi-daylight press.

This causes the resin to cure and bind the wood particles together and compresses the mat into a dense, rigid board.

6. Cooling and conditioning

The hot boards are then cooled to stabilise the board and relieve any internal stresses.

After this, the boards are conditioned to reach a uniform moisture content of around 8-10% to ensure they maintain dimensional stability during use.

7. Cutting and finishing

Once they have been cooled and conditioned, the boards are cut into standard sizes, and the edges are trimmed to ensure they’re straight.

The boards may then be sanded or laminated with melamine or veneer for a smooth and professional finish.

What are the Benefits of Using Chipboard?

There are many reasons why chipboard is a popular material in the construction industry. Some of its benefits include:

Cost-effectiveness: Chipboard is cheaper than solid wood and plywood, making it perfect for large-scale or budget-friendly projects.
Sustainability: As this is made from eco-friendly materials, the use of recycled wood particles reduces the need for fresh timber.
Durability and strength: Its impressive strength and durability make it perfect for structural applications, and it can resist daily wear and tear.
Versatility: Chipboard can be easily cut, shaped, and finished for various projects and is available in various types of size and thickness.
Moisture resistance: Specially treated chipboard can be used in environments with high levels of moisture content without deteriorating.

Browse High-Quality Chipboard with Beesley and Fildes

At Beesley and Fildes, we provide a wide variety of chipboard that is designed to last.

Our chipboard is constructed from durable materials, promising a lasting finish and easy application.

We also sell chipboard adhesive and tape to ensure a durable installation.