Particle Board?

[Malbri]

How easy is particle board to work with? Home depot sells it in 4x8 panels, but I only need it 3x8. So I guess what im asking is, is it pretty easy to cut? How heavy is it?

 

[geoaware]

Its easy to work with...and our local Home Depot will even cut it to size for us.

It has to be well sealed with paint if it is exposed to the elements (or just water) as it will swell.

When you are cutting the stuff you should use a face mask as the glue they use to bind the stuff can be nasty. Likewise, any offcuts should not be burnt if the smoke is going to be breathed in...and never use it as firewood if you are going to roast marshmellows!

 

[Just-Like-Hatching]

Very easy to work with. But remember the previous posters warning about sealing it. It has to be well painted or covered to hold up. Try not to use it for a floor that will get a lot of water on it.

 

[sundance]

We built our coop out of the 4x8 panels of particleboard, also the small barn, painted both white, using a primer under the paint, have had no problem with either, marrie

 

[SSO202]

Home Depot should cut the board to size for you for sure if they want your business. If they don't cut for you it is easy to cut with a circular saw or other type saw. You must definitely seal it as it is not moisture resistant and can cause problems in the future. You may want to consider spending a little extra money and getting a better piece of wood. Good luck with your project.

 

[Katy]

I'd spend the extra and get some plywood. I tried to save a little on a project once and didn't seal it good enough and it swelled up like sponge and flaked apart.

 

[fullhouse]

Quote:
Yes! It's only a little more per sheet for plywood!

 

[Malbri]

Actually for a sheet of plywood the same size it would be 3 times as much.

 

[Katy]

Just remember the saying .....you get what you pay for!

 

[silkiechicken]

Even though it's 3x the cost, go with the plywood. Perhaps go for a thinner sheet of plywood even. You'll spend more on the proper Exterior sealants on the particle board than on the plywood. I've gotten away with just staining plywood. Can't do that with particle board.