AnchorCore Slatwall Panels vs. MDF Slatwall Panels
Posted in Products

For several years, InStore Design Display has been stocking AnchorCore slatwall panels. Previously, we stocked medium density fiberboard (MDF) slatwall panels. Why did we switch? Simple. Tests have proven AnchorCore slatwall has a holding strength that is 50% stronger than MDF.
AnchorCore slatwall was developed specifically for the retail store fixture industry. The raw panels are manufactured by Boise Cascade and consist of 100% recycled wood fibers. Wind Mill Slatwall Products, IDD’s slatwall partner, is the exclusive slatwall manufacturer who uses AnchorCoreslatwall.
Shown here are sample images of AnchorCore and MDF paint grade slatwall:
AnchorCore Slatwall
MDF Slatwall
AnchorCore | MDF |
---|---|
Fibrous, light natural look | Medium brown look |
84 pounds (48"x96"; 3" o.c.) | 80 pounds (48"x96"; 3" o.c.) |
50% stronger than mdf | |
Same price as MDF |
(Image and table source: Windmill Slatwall Products: www.windmillslatwall.com)
IDD stocks plain groove Ready-Sert slatwall panels. This means they are machined to hold Ready-Sert aluminum inserts for heavier load applications. Here is a sample of cherry slatwall with a Ready-Sert:
This strength chart compares AnchorCore Ready-Sert panels vs. MDF Ready-Sert panels. Note: actual strength may vary depending upon environmental issues, installation methods, fasteners used, accessories, and application employed.
Testing Notes
- Testing results produced across 35 data points using a load cell system on ¾” panels–MDF 130 grade and Boise Cascade™ Anchor™ Core. Data reflects break-out points for each combination of cores and inserts.
- This chart is designed to illustrate the relative strength comparison between substrates and various decorative slatwall groove insert options. This is provided to aid our customers and help them choose which core or insert will be the best for their application.
- Results are based on using 3″ on-center (o.c.) slatwall grooves and a load cell system 12″ out from the center of the panel. Panels were not adhered with fasteners. Failure was measured in pounds of force needed to break out the testing device from the test piece. This chart illustrates break out points and does not reflect recommended load capacities of any substrates or insert options.
- Actual load capacity may be less, may vary, and will depend on:
- Type of slatwall accessory used and the weight of the accessories for the application
- Distance the accessory extends from the face of the panel
- Number of accessories used to support the merchandise or application
- Distribution of weight on the accessory or system used
- Distance the accessory is from the edge/end of a panel
- Proper installation
- Length of groove or insert
- Other environmental factors
- Due to various influential factors, Wind Mill does not guarantee any load capacities for MDF or AnchorCore.