Introduction – A Comprehensive HDHMR Reference
With the popularity of modular furniture and engineered wood products, HDHMR boards have become a common term among architects, carpenters and homeowners. HDHMR stands for High Density High Moisture Resistant board. It is produced by compressing fibre chips and wood waste with moisture‑resistant resins, resulting in a dense, uniform board that can handle high humidity environments better than standard MDF.
However, there is still confusion around HDHMR’s properties, best uses, pricing and maintenance. Many questions pop up repeatedly on interior design forums and homeowner groups: “Is HDHMR waterproof?” “Can I use it in my kitchen?” “How does it compare to plywood?” This FAQ aims to answer all such queries in a clear, concise manner. We base our responses on manufacturer data, the Building & Interiors feature and price guide and insights from carpenters. Where more detailed explanations are available, we link to our in‑depth articles.
Feel free to skim through the sections most relevant to your project – basic information, performance, usage, workability, cost and miscellaneous topics. Each answer is summarised here and cross‑referenced to relevant posts like [Internal Link: hdhmr-board-bathroom-usage], [Internal Link: hdhmr-board-doors-pros-cons] and [Internal Link: hdhmr-vs-mdf-vs-plywood-comparison] for deeper dives.
Basic Questions
What is HDHMR board? (Full form and meaning)
HDHMR stands for High Density High Moisture Resistant board. It is an engineered wood product made by compressing wood fibre chips and forest waste with synthetic resins under high pressure and temperature. The result is a dense, uniform board that has better moisture resistance and strength than standard MDF. Building & Interiors describes HDHMR as sturdy boards designed for robust usage, competing with traditional plywood.
Who invented or manufactures HDHMR?
HDHMR is a category rather than a patented invention. Indian companies like Action Tesa were early adopters and popularised the term around 2014. Since then, major brands including Century Ply, Greenpanel (Greenply) and Durian have introduced their own HDHMR boards. Each brand varies slightly in density, resin type and surface finish, but all aim to provide moisture resistance and high density.
How is HDHMR different from MDF or HDF?
· MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard) has a density of 600–750 kg/m³ and is made from wood fibres bonded with urea‑formaldehyde resin. It has poor moisture resistance and can swell in humidity.
· HDF (High Density Fibreboard) is denser (over 850 kg/m³) and typically used for laminate flooring. However, it may not include moisture‑resistant additives.
· HDHMR sits between MDF and HDF in density (usually 800–900 kg/m³) and is made specifically with moisture‑resistant resins, giving it better water tolerance than MDF or HDF. Building & Interiors notes that HDHMR boards are waterproof and less likely to warp, whereas MDF absorbs moisture easily.
Performance Questions
Is HDHMR board waterproof?
HDHMR boards are marketed as moisture resistant and sometimes labelled waterproof. The Building & Interiors FAQ explains that HDHMR boards can tolerate high humidity levels without warping or swelling and are less likely to warp. However, they are not impervious to water. Prolonged soaking can cause swelling, especially at cut edges. Therefore, HDHMR is best described as highly moisture resistant, not 100 % waterproof. Always laminate or paint both sides and seal edges.
For environments with constant water contact, marine plywood or PVC boards remain superior. See [Internal Link: hdhmr-board-bathroom-usage] for details on using HDHMR in bathrooms.
Is HDHMR termite proof?
Yes, HDHMR boards contain additives that deter termites and borers. The Building & Interiors guide states that HDHMR boards are resistant to termites and borers. This resistance is not absolute, but HDHMR performs better than standard plywood or MDF. Always purchase branded boards to ensure the chemical treatment is effective.
Is HDHMR fire resistant?
Standard HDHMR boards are not inherently fire retardant. Some brands offer variants with fire‑retardant additives, but these are not common. Fire retardant plywood or cement boards are better for fire‑sensitive applications. If fire resistance is required, look for products explicitly labelled as such.
How strong is HDHMR compared to plywood?
HDHMR’s density gives it good strength and dimensional stability. It holds screws better than MDF but not as well as plywood. CenturyPly’s article comparing waterproof plywood and HDMR states that waterproof plywood is stronger, more durable and more dimensionally stable than HDMR. HDHMR boards can handle typical furniture loads but may flex under heavy weight if not properly supported. For high‑load applications like long shelves, plywood or blockboard may be a better choice.
Usage Questions
Where can HDHMR board be used? (applications overview)
HDHMR is suitable for:
· Kitchen cabinets and shutters – moisture resistance helps in humid cooking environments.
· Wardrobes and closets – termite resistance and smooth finish offer durability.
· Bathroom vanities – when properly laminated and sealed (see [Internal Link: hdhmr-board-bathroom-usage]).
· Office furniture and partitions – dense structure provides strength and abrasion resistance.
· Door shutters – particularly for cabinets and wardrobes; refer to [Internal Link: hdhmr-board-doors-pros-cons].
Avoid using HDHMR for exterior doors, structural elements or areas submerged in water.
Can HDHMR be used for kitchen cabinets?
Yes. HDHMR’s moisture resistance and smooth surface make it an excellent choice for kitchen cabinets. For carcass sides, 16 mm boards are common; 18 mm boards are used for shutters. Ensure lamination or painting on both sides and seal edges. Use heavy‑duty hinges because the material is heavier than plywood. For an in‑depth analysis, read [Internal Link: is-hdhmr-board-good-for-kitchen-cabinets].
Can HDHMR be used in the bathroom?
Yes, but only in areas not directly exposed to water. HDHMR works well for vanity cabinets, under‑sink storage and wall panels when laminated and edge banded. Avoid using it inside shower enclosures or for flooring. For details on precautions, see [Internal Link: hdhmr-board-bathroom-usage].
Is HDHMR good for wardrobes and furniture?
HDHMR is well suited to wardrobes and furniture because it resists termites, has a smooth finish and holds screws sufficiently for hinges and handles. Designers favour it for modern wardrobes where paint or laminate finishes are desired. However, its weight means that wardrobe doors may feel heavier; use adequate hinges and possibly thicker boards for long doors.
A designer in our user review article noted that HDHMR provided a factory‑made look when painted, and homeowners reported no swelling or termite issues.
Workability Questions
Can HDHMR board be painted or polished?
Yes. One of HDHMR’s strengths is its smooth surface, which accepts paint and polish easily. Building & Interiors mentions that users can laminate, veneer or paint HDHMR boards without compromising strength. Sand lightly, apply a primer and finish with PU or acrylic paint for best results. For polish, sand the surface and apply melamine or PU polish. Always finish both sides to maintain balance.
Can I laminate HDHMR board?
Absolutely. Laminating HDHMR provides additional moisture protection and aesthetic variety. Use high‑pressure laminates or PVC membrane sheets. Apply adhesive uniformly and press firmly. Also seal edges with edge banding or PU. Pre‑laminated HDHMR boards are available from brands like Action Tesa, Century and Greenpanel, saving time.
Does HDHMR hold screws and nails well?
HDHMR holds screws better than MDF due to its higher density but does not match plywood’s screw‑holding strength. Pilot holes and confirmat screws are recommended for heavy hardware. Nails do not hold well; screws and dowels are preferable. For door hinges, use multiple hinges and consider adding support rails.
How to cut HDHMR board? (tools needed)
Cut HDHMR using a table saw or circular saw with a carbide‑tipped blade. Sharp blades reduce chipping on the edges. For curved cuts, use a jigsaw with a fine‑tooth blade. Always support the board to prevent breakage due to weight. Wear a dust mask; though HDHMR dust is less harmful than some composite boards, proper safety gear is still recommended.
Purchase & Cost Questions
What is the cost of HDHMR board? (average price ranges)
According to Building & Interiors, HDHMR board prices vary by thickness. Typical ranges in 2025 are:
· 6 mm board: ₹50–65 per sq ft.
· 9 mm board: ₹60–80 per sq ft.
· 12 mm board: ₹75–95 per sq ft.
· 18 mm board: ₹90–110 per sq ft.
Prices increase for pre‑laminated and specialty boards (low emission or premium finishes). After adding laminate and hardware, final costs can approach or exceed plywood. For updated price lists, check [Internal Link: hdhmr-board-price-list-india-2025] and regional dealer guides.
What sizes and thicknesses are available in HDHMR?
Standard sheet sizes are 8 × 4 ft (2440 × 1220 mm). Some brands offer 8 × 6 ft or 8 × 7 ft sheets. Thicknesses range from 3 mm to 25 mm. Common thicknesses for furniture include 12 mm, 16 mm and 18 mm. Century Ply offers thicknesses up to 25 mm, while Greenpanel provides 3–12 mm.
Which brands offer HDHMR boards in India?
Major brands include:
· Action Tesa – considered a pioneer with a wide thickness range.
· Century Ply – offers Premium Plus and Low Emission variants.
· Greenpanel (Greenply) – markets HDHMR under MDF 710 with eco‑friendly manufacturing.
· Durian, Balaji, Apple Ply and other regional players.
For brand reviews, see [Internal Link: action-tesa-hdhmr-board-review-worth-it], [Internal Link: century-ply-hdhmr-board-review] and [Internal Link: greenpanel-hdhmr-board-review].
Miscellaneous Questions
Is HDHMR eco‑friendly or recyclable?
HDHMR boards use wood waste and fibre chips, which reduces reliance on solid timber. Many manufacturers use renewable energy and low‑emission resins. For example, Greenpanel claims to use renewable energy and antimicrobial additives. However, recycling HDHMR is challenging because of the resins. Offcuts can sometimes be reused in other panels, but there is no widespread recycling facility for fibreboards.
Does HDHMR emit formaldehyde (is it safe indoors)?
All engineered boards emit some formaldehyde due to resins, but reputable brands offer E1 or E0 grade boards with very low emission levels. Century’s Low Emission Premium Plus boards are marketed as low emission. Always request emission certificates from suppliers. When finishing, ventilate the area well to dissipate any volatile organic compounds.
How to identify genuine HDHMR board? (avoid fakes)
· Brand markings: Check for brand logos and printed information on the board edge or back.
· Density: Genuine HDHMR boards feel heavier than MDF.
· Consistent colour and texture: Genuine boards have uniform density and finish.
· Purchase from authorised dealers: Counterfeit boards labelled “HDHMR” may actually be moisture‑resistant MDF. Always buy from authorised suppliers and ask for invoices and warranty documents.
Can HDHMR be used outdoors?
HDHMR is not designed for outdoor use. Prolonged exposure to rain, sunlight and temperature fluctuations will degrade it. For outdoor furniture or cladding, choose exterior grade plywood (BWP), WPC (wood‑plastic composite) or uPVC.
Can HDHMR be curved or bent?
Unlike plywood, HDHMR cannot be bent easily due to its high density. It is better suited to flat panels. For curved surfaces, use flexible plywood or kerf cutting techniques on solid wood.
Conclusion – HDHMR at a Glance
HDHMR boards have revolutionised mid‑range furniture manufacturing in India. They offer a great balance of moisture resistance, stability, finish quality and cost. They outperform MDF and often rival plywood in many indoor applications. HDHMR is ideal for modular kitchen cabinets, wardrobes, bathroom vanities, office furniture and partitions.
However, users must be aware of its limitations: it is heavier than plywood, has slightly lower screw holding capacity than plywood and cannot replace marine plywood or solid wood in exterior or heavy‑load applications. Proper lamination, edge sealing and hardware selection are vital to ensure long‑term performance.
Use this FAQ as a quick reference and consult our more detailed guides for specific projects. Whether you’re a homeowner exploring material options or a designer specifying boards, HDHMR offers a reliable and versatile solution when used wisely.
Disclaimer: This article is generated using AI-assisted research and is intended for informational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, readers are advised to verify all technical, pricing, and brand-specific details with official sources. hdhmr.in is not liable for any decisions made based on this content.
