Medium density overlay (MDO)
Description
An overlaid Plywood product originally designed for commercial sign painters. Medium density overlay (MDO) panels are constructed from an exterior-grade plywood core laminated on one or both surfaces with resin-treated fiberboard or paper (commonly called MDF). A thermosetting glue (such as a Phenolic resin) is used to adhered the MDF to the wood surface with heat and pressure. The fibrous laminate surface is smooth and opaque with resistance to scratches, peeling, cracking, and moisture. MDO boards are available in large sheets (4' x 8') in a variety of thicknesses, such as 3/8", 1/2", 5/8", 3/4" and 1". Fine artists have used MDO boards for painting supports. MDO boards contain more adhesive than an MDF; they are considered as stronger than an MDF and create less dust during cutting.
Synonyms and Related Terms
MDO; Simpson Signal®; TwoStep®; Guardian® MDO; Roseburg Duragard
Resources and Citations
- Wood Magazine: https://www.woodmagazine.com/wood-supplies/lumber/whats-the-difference-between-mdo-and-mdf
- Charles Goodwin, Contributed information
- Rosebud Forest Products: http://www.rfpco.com/product_mdo.htm
- Simpson Signal® MDO: http://www.simpson-plywood.com/signal.htm