Medium density overlay (MDO)

Description

An overlaid plywood product orignially 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 paper. A thermosetting glue (such as a phenolic resin) is used to adhered the paper 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.

Synonyms and Related Terms

MDO; Simpson Signal®; TwoStep®; Guardian® MDO

Authority

• External source or communication Comment: Contributed information from Charles Goodwin.

• Website address 1 Comment: Rosebud Forest Products: http://www.rfpco.com/product_mdo.htm

• Website address 2 Comment: Simpson Signal® MDO: http://www.simpson-plywood.com/signal.htm