So.... If the particle board is covered with an acrylic layer (Melamine or Formica) why would a spilled water bowl cause any issue when the moisture is on the covered surface of the wood?? Does this make a difference? No part of the actual wood is showing.



If the particle board or even MDF is covered with either a pvc coating or formica it will not swell the wood. The only way the sheets of wood swell is when there is an exposed end. If you pvc tape the ends of your rack the glue from the tape will seal the wood and make it harder for moisture to get in. Now if the melamine is thin and your tub rubs it may eventually rub the melamine off to expose the raw particle board and cause swelling.



Not to mention by that point when the wood is swelling from condensation, I would be more worried that the Urea/Phenol Formaldehyde would be release which is a confirmed carcinogenic to myself and cannot be good for animals either. (which all MDF or Particle board has in it)



Exactly, in the mid 90's I used to cut 40-80 sheets of melamine a day. I had formed a rash from the formaldehyde and additives that were added into it. But when we change distributors and stopped buying South American melamine and started buying Canadian the rash went away.
-----
Jimmy Tintle

[ Show Entire Thread ]