Hardboard (Masonite)
Overview
Dense engineered wood product. Smooth surface, inexpensive. Good for painted signs, templates, and jigs. Not as durable as plywood.
Properties
Difficulty
beginner
Pros
- Very inexpensive
- Smooth surface
- Easy to paint
- Uniform density
- Good for templates
Cons
- Not durable
- Swells with moisture
- Brittle edges
- Lower strength than plywood
- Indoor use only
Best For
- Painted signs|Templates|Jigs|Mockups|Craft projects
Avoid For
- Moisture (swells badly)
- food contact
- structural use
Laser Compatibility
Hardboard cuts cleanly on CO2 laser. CO2: cut 3mm at 200mm/s 55W; engrave at 400mm/s 30%. Diode 20W: engrave at 300mm/s 90%; cutting needs 4+ passes. Contains urea-formaldehyde binders — ventilate well. Smooth face gives clean engraved surface.
Brands
DuronMasoniteEucaboard (Home Depot)generic hardboard