How do I level an eroding MDF tabletop?

Pad31467865
by Pad31467865

I found a side table while dumpster diving and it will be a great display table for my craft booth. The top of the table is MDF and rain caused some erosion of the surface. What is the best product to use to create a level surface before painting? The rest of table is in good shape.

Underside of MDF table.

Top - this is the side which need leveling. Any help from my Hometalk mates?

  6 answers
  • GrandmasHouseDIY GrandmasHouseDIY on Aug 08, 2019

    I've found sanding it down is the best place to start and get it as smooth as possible. After that one of the thicker oil based paints will give better coverage (like a rustoleum)

    • Pad31467865 Pad31467865 on Aug 15, 2019

      Thank you so much for answering. I'll try this and if it works, I'll be posting my new project.

  • Kathy Gunter Law Kathy Gunter Law on Aug 08, 2019

    You can use bondo as a filler once you sand it down.

    • See 1 previous
    • Kathy Gunter Law Kathy Gunter Law on Aug 15, 2019

      It's not very heavy, especially since you don't have much to fix. Use sparingly. MDF is so heavy that Bondo shouldn't weigh more. Cheryl has a great tip on the sanding sealer as well.

  • Lifestyles Homes Lifestyles Homes on Aug 08, 2019

    I would put a sanding sealer on it, after sealing it, before Bondo, as it likes to mushroom.

  • William William on Aug 08, 2019

    I go with GrandmasHouseDIY. Sanding down is the best and easiest solution. Any dents or divots can be filled with wood putty and sanded smooth. Then prime and paint. Kilz and latex paint.

  • Deb K Deb K on Aug 08, 2019

    Hello, sand er down and use drywall filler for the divots, prime before painting

  • Jim Cox Jim Cox on Aug 09, 2019

    I would cover it in a sheet of formica/tub liner/etc and save yourself a ton of time. Some 3M automotive spray adhesive, and a razor and sandpaper for the edges and you're done!

    • See 1 previous
    • Jim Cox Jim Cox on Aug 16, 2019

      Thx for the LOL! I'm not lazy I swear, just efficient. As recently as yesterday... a buddy asked where I get my energy!