What Is A Masonite Board in Woodwork? Uses Of Masonite Boards
What Is A Masonite Board in Woodwork?
Masonite is a type of engineered wood, known as hardboard, made through a process of steam-cooking and pressure-molding wood fibers. The process was patented by William H. Mason in 1924.
The material quickly gained popularity reaching its peak in the 1930s and 1940s. While not as widely used today Masonite is gaining attention for its use in environmentally friendly construction.
It is also known by several other names, including Quartrboard, Isorel, and pressboard. The first product similar to masonite was made in England in 1898 using waste paper.
Masonite began mass production in 1929 and was used in a variety of applications, such as doors, roofing, and canoes. Other companies now produce similar products known as tempered hardboard. The Masonite Corporation, which was purchased by Premdor Corporation in 2001, no longer produces generic hardboard but it still supplies door facings.
Masonite Manufacturing Process
Masonite is created using the Mason process, where wood chips are broken down by being saturated with high-pressure steam and then rapidly released through an orifice to atmospheric pressure.
This forms the fibers into boards on a screen which are then pressed and heated to make the final product with a smooth surface.
The natural lignin in the wood serves to bond the fibers together and the long fibers give Masonite its strength, density and stability. Unlike other composite wood panels, no formaldehyde is used in the production of Masonite.
Uses Of Masonite
Masonite is a versatile material with a variety of uses, including as a support for painting, in linocut printing, as a material for table tennis tables, skateboard ramps, and as a protection for floors and walls in construction and moving companies.
It is commonly used in theater, film, and television set construction, as well as for making musical wobble boards.
It can also be used for curved edges in sidewalks, as cake boards for professional cake decorators, in guitar bodies, and as a protective backing for wooden cabinets. Due to its low cost and flexibility, it is also popular among model railroaders for their layouts.
Benefits Of Using Masonite
Masonite is a versatile and durable building material that can be used in many construction projects. It is composed of a combination of wood fibers and resin, and is often used as an exterior door or side panel. Masonite has many benefits, including its resistance to fire, moisture, insects, sound deadening capabilities, and low maintenance requirements.
Additionally, because of the composite components it is made from, Masonite is lightweight yet strong and can be easily cut into various shapes for custom sizes.
Its affordability also makes it a great option for homeowners on a budget looking to increase their home’s value without breaking the bank.
How To Install Masonite
Masonite is an easy-to-install door that offers a stylish, secure solution for your home. Installing Masonite is relatively simple and can be done in just a few steps:
First, use a stud finder to locate the wall studs where you’re planning to install the door. Next, attach the pre-hung frame by screwing it into the studs with lag screws.
Finally, hang the door and make sure it’s level by adjusting shims if necessary. With these basic steps, you’ll soon have Masonite installed and ready to be used!
Popular Applications For Masonite
Masonite is an incredibly versatile material that can be used in a variety of applications. One of the most popular uses for Masonite is as a door material.
Whether you’re looking for interior or exterior doors, this durable type of wood composite material can provide you with the strength and appearance that you need. It’s also great for flooring, furniture making, paneling, even art projects.
With its versatility and affordability, Masonite makes the perfect choice for any home improvement project.
