Carpentry and Woodworking - screw tearout in MDF

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mr_dove
02-01-04, 03:23 PM
I recently built a rudimentary toybox for my young son out of MDF that I had laying around the house. I know it's not the best material to use but I had it laying around and decided to use it.

The box is about 14"x14"x48". I planned to put a lid on the box but I'm afraid that the screws will tear out of the MDF. I've worked with MDF before and I'm a bit familiar with it.

Can someone advise on whether I'll have problems with mounting a lid on the box? What other kind of method can be used to strengthen it and prevent the screws of tearing out (if that is a danger).

Tom_J
02-01-04, 04:49 PM
What about a "piano" hinge running the length of the lid? (The more screws, the merrier. :D)

Tom
fewalt
02-01-04, 05:11 PM
An mdf lid for a toy box is heavy for a child.
Best to get one of those piston type lid closers so the lid doesn't slam down on little fingers. check Rockler.com

Best screws for mdf:
1) pre-drill
2) non tapered screw (so as not to expand the mdf)

fred

chfite
02-01-04, 07:05 PM
I just built a box of MDF with a 38" long piano hinge. Drilled pilot holes. No problems so far.