What the term means
In board markets it usually means lower-priced imported board used for fittings, drawers and backs. It is not a standard grade, so each shipment can differ. Judge each sheet on its merits.
Grades and uses
Better imported boards suit interiors, while thin, light ones are for backs and temporary work. Match the grade to load and moisture.
Density and glue
Heavy boards usually have denser cores and stronger glue, and very light boards crumble. Ask for density and glue grade and check by weight.
Indicative rates
These ranges show common retail figures per 8 by 4 foot sheet.
| Item | Indicative range |
|---|---|
| 12 mm fitting board | PKR 2,500 - 3,800 |
| 18 mm fitting board | PKR 3,500 - 5,200 |
| 18 mm better grade imported MDF | PKR 5,000 - 6,500 |
| Edge banding, per metre | PKR 25 - 80 |
| Cutting service, per cut | PKR 30 - 100 |
Prices move with brand, model, size and stock. Use these ranges to judge a quote, then compare the exact model and what is included.
Moisture and screw holding
Poor boards swell quickly and strip screws, so avoid them in kitchens and baths. Seal edges and use proper fittings.
How to test quality
Check thickness, weigh a sheet, inspect the edge for crumbling, drive a test screw and soak an offcut for a few hours to see swelling.
When it is acceptable
Acceptable for dry cabinet backs, drawer bases, shelving with short spans and temporary work, and poor for load-bearing or damp areas. Cutting and fixing should be done by a trained carpenter with the right blades, edge banding and fixings for the board.
Check before you buy
- Thickness. Measure it across the sheet.
- Weight. Compare with a known good board.
- Edge. No crumbling or voids.
- Smell. Strong chemical smell may signal high formaldehyde.
Before you decide
Judge each sheet by tests, not by the label. Ask the seller to show a full uncut sheet rather than a small chip, check it in daylight and in the room's evening light, and take a photograph of the batch label so you can ask for matching stock later. Keep one spare offcut from the same batch for touch-ups and test any cleaner on that offcut before using it on finished surfaces. Measure the job and add 8 to 10 percent for cuts and waste, compare at least two quotes on the same board, thickness, face and edge finish, and keep the invoice and any warranty. Ask for a physical sample or a cut piece so you can check the face, the core and the edge in your own light, and confirm the full sheet size because 8 by 4 feet, 7 by 4 feet and metric sizes are all sold. Store sheets flat, off the floor and away from damp, because boards bow when stacked badly. Prices change with material costs, exchange rates and stock, so confirm the current figure before you decide, and be careful with very low prices that hide thin faces or weak cores.
Frequently Asked Questions
A market term for low-cost imported boards. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis. Check the warranty terms and who honours them before you pay. Measure carefully and confirm sizes with the seller before ordering.
Indicative rates run from about PKR 2,500 to 6,500 per 8 by 4 sheet. Check the warranty terms and who honours them before you pay. Measure carefully and confirm sizes with the seller before ordering. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit.
Not usually. Measure carefully and confirm sizes with the seller before ordering. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit. If you are unsure, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis.
Check weight, screw hold and a water soak. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit. If you are unsure, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis.
For dry, light-duty parts. If you are unsure, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis. Check the warranty terms and who honours them before you pay.
Message us on WhatsApp with what you need and where it will be used. We check what we can supply and send a written rate showing the model, quantity, warranty and delivery, so you can judge it against other offers. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit.