The Complete Guide to Porta Pre-Primed MDF Mouldings

When it comes to achieving crisp, professional interior finishes, Porta Pre-Primed MDF Mouldings are the go-to choice. Designed for dry interior applications, they arrive pre-primed and ready to paint, saving time and ensuring a consistent, high-quality finish. From skirtings and architraves to door jambs, these mouldings provide a smooth, stable surface that professionals and DIYers can rely on.

Where to Use Porta Pre-Primed MDF Mouldings

Porta Pre-Primed MDF Mouldings are suitable for dry interior environments where a painted finish is required. Typical applications include:

• Skirtings and baseboards
• Door jambs
• Architraves

They are not suitable for wet areas such as bathrooms or external use. For best performance, ensure the moisture content remains below 16%.

Storage and Acclimatisation

Proper storage and acclimatisation are key to achieving perfect results. MDF can shrink or expand with temperature and humidity changes, so it’s essential to prepare the mouldings correctly before installation.

• Store flat on horizontal supports (no more than 600 mm apart).
• Keep undercover, away from sunlight and moisture.
• Leave mouldings wrapped until 48 hours before installation.
• Acclimatise by unstacking and allowing air circulation within the room where they will be fitted.

Skipping this step can lead to movement after installation, resulting in paint cracking or gaps at the joints.

Cutting and Shaping

Porta Pre-Primed MDF Mouldings are easy to cut and shape with standard woodworking tools. Use fine-toothed saws and sharp chisels or routers to protect the pre-primed surface. Always seal cut ends with a primer or PVA to prevent moisture absorption and maintain a consistent finish.

Installation

Porta Pre-Primed MDF Mouldings can be fixed to timber, metal frames or masonry using mechanical or adhesive fixing methods.

Mechanical Fixing

• Use nails, screws or staples in combination with adhesive for secure bonding.
• Pre-drill pilot holes to avoid splitting.
• Choose the correct screw gauge and spacing for the application.

Adhesive Fixing

• Apply contact adhesive 15 mm from the edges and on all joints.
• Follow the adhesive manufacturer’s recommendations for drying and curing times.

Joining and Finishing

Creating seamless joins is simple with the right techniques:

• Mitring: 45° cuts at corners, nailed and glued for tight joins.
• Splicing: Overlap long spans with angled cuts over solid backing.
• Coping: Match internal corner profiles using a coping saw for precise alignment.

After installation, fill nail holes, sand lightly, and apply one or two coats of paint. Solvent-borne paints generally provide a harder, more durable finish, but always follow the paint manufacturer’s guidelines.

Safety First

As with all MDF products, cutting or sanding produces fine dust. Wear gloves, eye protection and a dust mask. Use dust extraction where possible and clean up with wet sweeping or vacuuming. Dispose of offcuts responsibly and in accordance with local regulations.

The Finishing Touch

Porta Pre-Primed MDF Mouldings make achieving a professional, painted finish easier than ever. With correct storage, preparation and installation, they provide seamless, long-lasting results. Whether refreshing a single room or completing a full interior fit-out, Porta Pre-Primed MDF Mouldings deliver quality, consistency and performance that professionals trust.