using mdf sheeting over a timber frame, can I build a partition wall that is smooth and even enough to wallpaper afterwards. (Or is it preferable to use plasterboard instead)

ash, January 2010

Dear Ash, It is advisable for you not to use any type of MDF for any partitiion walls. Simple reason is that when MDF gets wet, it will absorb any water and making the partition wall unsafe. MDF is made of glue and multitudes of unused wood that was used during processing. The glue (PVA) is only wood glue and if you apply water to wood glue, the glue dissolves and thus making any item unsafe if used with water. It sounds stupid but worktops are made of MDF but are covered in plastic film. If the back of the worktop is not sealed properly with sealant, it will make the MDF break up as soon as water penetrates it over a period of time (MONTHS ). Please note Ash, if you intend to put any pipework through MDF and you have a burst water main inside the partition wall. Other than making it a danger to live with as water and MDF are not good insulators for electricity /water combinations where electrical cables are behind partition walls.; it could also be illegal too. Personally my friend if you are in doubt consult with builders. statistics for DIyer's getting killed are quite high. so be careful my friend.

Anthony Tovey, September 2010

As stated in the previous posts, plasterboard is the easiest and cheapest option.
But yes, you can use MDF to build a partition wall providing it's not a load bearing wall.
There are a number of flame retardant MDF's on the market conforming to BS EN ISO 13501-1, Euroclass B & C, rated to 30 minutes.

Big Softy, March 2010

refers to U.K building regulations.

NO you would be breaking building regs so plaster board it.
First check what size timber for studding must be used and allow for 'noggin's' to go between the uprights to stop the uprights twisting. So 4 x 2 studs and 4 x 2 noggins nail or screw noggings in make them a good fit. Where the cable runs would be cut notches in the noggins if needed. And most sockets you can get cavity pattress boxes so no backing required

Charlie, February 2010

not sure if its a good idea to use mdf, because of fire hazzards, ect , and its not cheap , , as the plasterboard, and you want to put plug sockets, for power , its easy to cut the plastedboard than mdf,,if your going to use plasterboard , its a good idea to run the power wireing through the wall as your makeing the wall , and fit sockets into it . you can link them up to the power at a later date. but its handy to have the wireing in the wall , even if there is no power going to it yet , stick with plasterboard , and its easy to cut , thats my adviceto you,,,,,

mark, January 2010