WOOD-BASED PANELS
Wood-based panels are engineered construction and renovation materials made by binding wood particles with chemical resins. Wood-based panels are used in construction, furniture, and interior renovation for walls, ceilings, flooring underlays, and cabinetry. The type of panel depends on the size and arrangement of wood particles, with common varieties including OSB (oriented strand board), MDF (medium-density fiberboard), plywood, and particleboard (chipboard). Each type varies in appearance, strength, and application, but all are widely used in renovation and dry construction.
A key characteristic of wood-based panels is their potential to emit formaldehyde. While regulations strictly limit formaldehyde emissions, and some manufacturers now produce formaldehyde-free panels, these materials may still release other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that could impact indoor air quality.
The manufacturing process of wood-based panels is energy-intensive, particularly during pressing and drying. However, incorporating recycled wood into production reduces resource consumption. At the end of their lifespan, many panels can be recycled, supporting waste reduction and circular economy principles.
A key characteristic of wood-based panels is their potential to emit formaldehyde. While regulations strictly limit formaldehyde emissions, and some manufacturers now produce formaldehyde-free panels, these materials may still release other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that could impact indoor air quality.
The manufacturing process of wood-based panels is energy-intensive, particularly during pressing and drying. However, incorporating recycled wood into production reduces resource consumption. At the end of their lifespan, many panels can be recycled, supporting waste reduction and circular economy principles.
Priority of choice
Best choice
Good alternatives
Less recommended / Better to avoid
Plywood
(more durable, lower formaldehyde emissions)
Oriented strand board (OSB)
MDF and particleboard
(higher formaldehyde emissions)
(higher formaldehyde emissions)
Tips for healthier choice
- Whenever possible, opt for solid wood materials over composite wood for better durability and fewer chemical emissions.
- Choose plywood over other composites – plywood is a stronger, lower-emission alternative to MDF and particleboard.
- Look for formaldehyde-free panels to minimize indoor air pollution.
- Choose solid wood veneer facings instead of laminate, melamine, or thermofoil, and prefer veneer edge banding over plastic alternatives like PVC or melamine.
- Select factory-applied, water-based finishes and ensure panels have low or no VOC emissions to improve indoor air quality.
- Prefer mechanical joining methods instead of glue-based assembly to reduce chemical exposure.
- Panels made from recycled wood or wood waste support the circular economy and reduce reliance on virgin materials.
- Keep work areas well-ventilated during cutting, sanding, and installation to minimize exposure to dust and VOCs.
- Reduce transportation emissions and support local economies by choosing locally manufactured wood-based panels.
Certifications to look for
