Plywood, MDF and Particleboard: What Your Carcass Should Be Made Of

In a dry climate most carcass boards perform acceptably. In Thailand, moisture is the deciding variable. A swollen carcass base or a delaminated edge under the sink is the most common reason a kitchen fails early here.

Standard particleboard is the cheapest option and the least tolerant of water. Moisture-resistant grades are a genuine improvement and are acceptable for dry runs, but we do not recommend standard grade anywhere in a Thai kitchen.

MR MDF machines beautifully, holds fixings well and takes a lacquer finish better than anything else. It is our default for painted and lacquered doors, and it is sound for carcasses away from persistent wet.

For sink bases, anywhere near plumbing and for the whole carcass in beachfront or poorly ventilated properties, we specify marine-grade or WBP plywood. It costs more and it is the single upgrade most worth paying for in this climate.