MDF / Particleboard / Solid for Closet Shelving

redpanda

My husband and I are planning to install some shelves in our closets and I am wondering if it makes sense for us to shell out on solid wood shelves instead of MDF or particleboard. How much extra would solid shelves cost, both for DIY and professional installation? (We may opt for professional in one larger, more complicated install). Does solid wood add considerably to the durability or look to the shelving, or have other benefits? I've been googling on this forever and can't find any pros/cons discussion, but it seems like people are generally really happy with both MDF and particleboard shelving so I am leaning this way, but my husband is leaning towards solid. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!

oh'mike

Just my opinion based on experience---Skip MDF to much sag--Particle board is much better--

3/4" cabinet ply wood is my first choice--with a nice edge band to hide the plys.

Solid wood--hardwood--would be a fine choice--but the cost might be shocking.---Mike---

jlhaslip

mdf shelving is fine as long as a front edge stiffener is glued/nailed onto it.

__________________

bigkev.com.au

i would do a solid timber shelf and make it out of 19mm pine and laminate to make it to the right size .

redpanda

We've decided not to go with solid wood due to the cost issue. Thanks for the advice!

Yoyizit

http://www.woodbin.com/calcs/sagulator.htm