Best HDHMR Board Brands in India: Complete Supplier Guide

Quick Answer

The best HDHMR board brands in India include Action Tesa, GreenPanel, Century Ply, Greenply, and Rushil Décor (VIR), each offering distinct advantages in moisture resistance, density, and termite protection. Your ideal choice depends on budget, application area, and regional availability through local dealer networks.

At a Glance

• Action Tesa leads the market segment with consistent quality and wide dealer network across metros
• GreenPanel (from Greenply Industries) offers eco-friendly options with low formaldehyde emissions
• Century Ply provides trusted household name recognition with diverse finish options
• Rushil Décor VIR excels in prelam HDHMR boards for ready-to-use applications
• Prices typically range ₹45–₹85 per sq ft depending on thickness, brand tier, and city
• All quality HDHMR boards offer density above 850 kg/m³ with superior moisture and termite resistance

HDHMR Boards Explained: What Makes Them Different

HDHMR stands for High-Density High Moisture Resistance—an engineered wood product manufactured by compressing wood fibres with high-density resins under heat and pressure. Unlike traditional plywood that uses veneer layers bonded together, HDHMR boards consist of densely packed wood particles and fibres creating a homogeneous, uniform panel.

The manufacturing process involves blending fibre chips and forest wood waste, then compressing them into a single dense layer. A special glue pressing technique creates a distinctive water resistance layer within the board structure. This results in a panel with density exceeding 850 kg/m³, compared to standard plywood's 600 kg/m³.

Why HDHMR Matters for Indian Interiors

In the Indian context, HDHMR boards address three critical challenges that plague traditional wood products. First, the humid conditions during monsoon months cause conventional plywood to warp, swell, and delaminate—HDHMR's moisture resistance makes it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and coastal regions. Second, termite infestations that destroy furniture across most of India are effectively countered by HDHMR's dense, chemically-treated composition. Third, the uniform density means consistent CNC machining results, which is essential for modular kitchen manufacturers.

The board's smooth, bubble-free surface accepts laminates, veneers, and paint finishes evenly, making it the preferred substrate for contemporary interior work. While initially more expensive than particle board or commercial plywood, the longevity and maintenance-free performance make HDHMR a cost-effective investment for permanent fixtures.

Top HDHMR Board Brands in India: Detailed Profiles

The Indian HDHMR market features both established plywood giants and specialist engineered wood manufacturers. Understanding each brand's strengths helps match your project requirements with the right supplier.

Action Tesa

Action Tesa dominates the HDHMR segment with robust manufacturing standards and extensive distribution. Their boards offer superior density and strength, with excellent scratch and termite resistance. Available in various thicknesses and finishes, Action Tesa HDHMR is particularly favoured for kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, and office furniture. The brand maintains strong dealer presence in metros and Tier-2 cities alike, ensuring consistent availability.

GreenPanel (HDWR Boards)

Part of Greenply Industries Limited, GreenPanel has carved a niche with eco-friendly manufacturing processes. Their HDWR (High Density Water Resistant) boards feature low formaldehyde emissions—important for health-conscious buyers. The brand offers consistent quality with aesthetic variety in finishes and textures, making them suitable for modular kitchens, wardrobes, and wall panelling.

Century Ply

As a household name in Indian plywood, Century Ply brings trust and widespread recognition to their HDHMR offerings. Their boards feature high density and robustness with moisture and termite resistance. Century's commitment to sustainable practices and availability in multiple finishes makes them popular for both residential and commercial decorative applications.

Greenply Industries

Beyond GreenPanel, Greenply Industries offers HDHMR boards under their main brand with sustainable MDF and HDWR boards featuring E0 and E1 emission grades. They have recently introduced prelam HDHMR boards in India with a wide variety of colours and designs, reducing fabrication time for modular furniture manufacturers.

Rushil Décor (VIR)

VIR HDMR boards from Rushil Décor are known for high density, excellent moisture resistance, and termite-proof properties. The brand also supplies prelam boards, making them a one-stop solution for fabricators. Their wide range of finishes suits kitchen cabinetry, bathroom furniture, and office partitions.

HDHMR Board Brand Comparison Table

Brand	Key Strength	Moisture Resistance	Availability	Price Range (₹/sq ft)	Best For
Action Tesa	Market leader, consistent quality	Excellent	Pan-India, strong metro presence	₹55–₹80	Kitchen cabinets, high-traffic areas
GreenPanel	Eco-friendly, low emissions	Excellent	Good in metros, growing Tier-2	₹50–₹75	Health-conscious projects, wardrobes
Century Ply	Brand trust, wide finish options	Very Good	Excellent pan-India	₹52–₹78	Residential furniture, decorative panels
Greenply	Prelam options, E0/E1 grades	Excellent	Strong across India	₹48–₹72	Modular furniture, commercial projects
Rushil Décor VIR	Prelam specialist, value pricing	Very Good	Growing network	₹45–₹68	Budget-conscious modular work
Merino	Premium finish quality	Excellent	Metro-focused	₹58–₹85	High-end residential, architect projects

Note: Prices are indicative for 18mm thickness in metro cities. Actual prices vary by dealer, quantity, and location.

How to Choose the Best HDHMR Board Brand

Selecting the right HDHMR brand involves balancing quality requirements with practical considerations like budget, availability, and project specifications. Here's a systematic approach to making an informed decision.

Decision Framework

Start by assessing your application area. Kitchen and bathroom installations demand the highest moisture resistance—prioritize brands with proven performance in humid conditions. For bedroom wardrobes or living room units, you have more flexibility and can consider value-oriented options.

Next, evaluate your fabrication method. If you're using CNC routing for modular work, consistency in thickness and density matters significantly. Established brands maintain tighter tolerances, reducing wastage and rework. For manual carpentry, slight variations are more forgiving.

Consider your finishing approach. If applying laminates or veneers, the base board's surface smoothness is critical. For prelam applications, brands like Greenply and Rushil Décor offer ready-finished boards that eliminate this step entirely.

Buyer Checklist

• Verify density specification—quality HDHMR should exceed 850 kg/m³
• Check thickness accuracy with Vernier calipers (18mm boards often measure 17.5–18.5mm)
• Inspect surface for bubbles, undulations, or rough patches
• Confirm moisture resistance grade matches your application needs
• Assess dealer support for warranty claims and replacements
• Compare landed cost including GST and transport to your location
• Request test certificates for formaldehyde emission levels if required

When NOT to Choose HDHMR

HDHMR isn't universally superior. For structural load-bearing applications, BWP-grade plywood remains preferable due to better screw-holding in thick sections. In extremely wet conditions like laundry areas with standing water exposure, marine plywood or UPVC alternatives outperform HDHMR. For temporary installations or rental properties, the premium for HDHMR may not justify the investment. Additionally, if local carpenter expertise with HDHMR is limited, the edge-banding and machining quality may suffer, negating the material's advantages.

Common Mistakes When Buying HDHMR Boards

Even experienced buyers make errors when sourcing HDHMR boards. Understanding these pitfalls helps you avoid costly mistakes and project delays.

Confusing HDHMR with Standard MDF

Many dealers—intentionally or otherwise—substitute regular MDF for HDHMR to improve margins. Standard MDF lacks the moisture resistance treatment and higher density of genuine HDHMR. The price difference of ₹15–₹25 per sq ft should alert you; if the "HDHMR" price seems too good, it probably isn't HDHMR.

Ignoring Thickness Variations

The Indian market uses nominal thickness naming—an "18mm" board might measure anywhere from 17mm to 19mm depending on brand and batch. For modular kitchen work requiring precise fitting, these variations cause alignment issues. Always measure actual thickness and source consistent batches for large projects.

Overlooking Edge Quality

HDHMR boards require proper edge-banding to prevent moisture ingress at cut edges. Some buyers focus solely on surface quality while ignoring edge density. Inspect cut edges for uniformity—loose or crumbly edges indicate manufacturing defects or improper storage.

Neglecting Storage Conditions

HDHMR boards stored in open yards or exposed to rain lose their moisture resistance advantages before installation. Always verify dealer storage practices. Boards should be stacked flat on level surfaces in covered, ventilated spaces.

Quick Inspection Checks

• Weight test: Genuine HDHMR feels noticeably heavier than same-size MDF or particle board
• Tap test: Knock on the surface—HDHMR produces a solid, dense sound versus hollow resonance
• Edge inspection: Examine cut edges for consistent density without visible layers or gaps
• Surface check: Run your palm across the face—quality HDHMR feels uniformly smooth
• Flex test: Apply gentle pressure to sheet centre—minimal flex indicates proper density

HDHMR Board Price Guide for India

HDHMR pricing in India varies significantly based on multiple factors. Understanding these variables helps you budget accurately and negotiate effectively with dealers.

Price Ranges by Thickness

Thickness	Economy Brands (₹/sq ft)	Premium Brands (₹/sq ft)	Common Applications
8mm	₹28–₹38	₹40–₹52	Back panels, drawer bottoms
12mm	₹35–₹48	₹50–₹65	Shelving, light partitions
18mm	₹45–₹60	₹62–₹85	Kitchen cabinets, wardrobes
25mm	₹58–₹75	₹78–₹105	Table tops, heavy-duty shelves

Prices as of late 2025, metro city dealer rates. Tier-2/Tier-3 cities may vary ±10%.

What Causes Price Variation

Brand positioning: Market leaders like Action Tesa command premium pricing due to established quality reputation and dealer confidence. Newer entrants compete on price while building market presence.

Density and specifications: Higher density boards (900+ kg/m³) cost more due to increased raw material and processing requirements. E0 emission-grade boards also command premiums over standard E1 or E2 grades.

Geography: Proximity to manufacturing hubs affects landed cost. South and West India, with more manufacturing facilities, typically see lower prices than Northeast or remote areas. Transport costs add ₹3–₹8 per sq ft for distant locations.

Order quantity: Bulk orders of 50+ sheets typically receive 5–12% discounts. Project-based purchasing through contractors often yields better rates than retail buying.

GST and logistics: The 18% GST applies uniformly, but dealers' billing practices vary. Always confirm whether quoted prices include GST and delivery charges to avoid surprises.

Regional Considerations for HDHMR Selection

India's diverse climate zones demand different approaches to HDHMR selection and application.

Coastal and High-Humidity Regions

Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Kerala, and coastal Karnataka experience extended high-humidity periods. Here, invest in premium HDHMR brands with proven moisture resistance. Avoid economy options regardless of price attraction—the failure cost far exceeds initial savings. Ensure all cut edges receive proper edge-banding with PVC or ABS strips, as exposed edges remain vulnerable even in quality HDHMR.

Dry Interior Regions

Delhi NCR, Rajasthan, and interior Madhya Pradesh face different challenges. While humidity is lower, extreme temperature variations cause expansion-contraction stress. Quality HDHMR handles this well, but proper installation with expansion gaps at walls becomes crucial. In these regions, you can consider mid-tier brands with good results.

Metro vs Tier-2/Tier-3 Availability

Premium HDHMR brands maintain strong dealer networks in metros and state capitals. Tier-2 cities typically stock Action Tesa, Century, and Greenply but may lack newer brands. In Tier-3 locations, dealer availability narrows further—confirm stock before committing to specifications. For remote projects, factor in lead times of 2–4 weeks for specific brands or thicknesses.

Budget vs Premium HDHMR: Which Makes Sense?

The ₹15–₹25 per sq ft price gap between economy and premium HDHMR brands raises legitimate questions about value.

When Premium Justifies the Cost

For permanent fixtures in owned homes—especially kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities—premium HDHMR delivers measurable returns. The superior moisture resistance prevents swelling and delamination that typically appears in economy boards within 3–5 years in humid areas. Better dimensional consistency means fewer fitting issues during installation, reducing carpenter labour time and rework costs.

For modular kitchen manufacturers, premium boards reduce rejection rates during CNC processing and deliver cleaner edge finishes. The consistency premium translates directly to production efficiency.

When Economy Options Work

Bedroom wardrobes in dry climates, office storage units, and rental property installations don't demand peak moisture resistance. Here, reputable economy brands like Rushil Décor VIR or regional manufacturers offer adequate performance at meaningful savings. For a typical 100 sq ft wardrobe project, the ₹1,500–₹2,500 savings may reasonably offset marginal performance differences.

The 5-Year Durability Outlook

Premium HDHMR in appropriate applications should show zero visible degradation at 5 years with normal use. Economy options in high-humidity areas may exhibit edge swelling, surface undulations near edges, or hardware loosening within this timeframe. For 10+ year expectations, the calculus strongly favours premium investment in moisture-exposed applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the full form of HDHMR board?

HDHMR stands for High-Density High Moisture Resistance. It describes an engineered wood board manufactured by compressing wood fibres with high-density resins under heat and pressure. The "high density" refers to the board's compact composition exceeding 850 kg/m³, while "high moisture resistance" indicates its ability to withstand humid conditions without warping or swelling. This makes HDHMR ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and coastal-region applications where traditional plywood would deteriorate quickly.

Which is better: HDHMR or plywood for kitchen cabinets?

HDHMR outperforms standard plywood for kitchen cabinets in most scenarios. HDHMR offers superior moisture resistance essential for kitchen environments with constant steam and water exposure. Its uniform density provides consistent screw-holding strength and better machining results for modular work. However, BWP-grade marine plywood remains suitable for very heavy-duty applications requiring exceptional structural strength. For typical residential kitchens, HDHMR delivers better value considering its termite resistance, dimensional stability, and smooth surface finish for laminate application.

Is HDHMR board waterproof or just water-resistant?

HDHMR boards are water-resistant, not truly waterproof. They can withstand prolonged exposure to humidity and occasional water splashes without swelling or delaminating—making them ideal for kitchens and bathrooms. However, standing water or complete submersion will eventually cause damage. The special adhesive bonding creates a moisture barrier within the board structure, but cut edges remain somewhat vulnerable unless properly edge-banded. For areas with potential water pooling, marine plywood or UPVC alternatives provide better protection.

What is the HDHMR board price in India per square foot?

HDHMR board prices in India typically range from ₹45 to ₹85 per square foot for standard 18mm thickness, depending on brand, grade, and city. Economy brands like Rushil Décor VIR start around ₹45–₹60/sq ft, while premium options like Action Tesa or Merino range ₹55–₹85/sq ft. Thinner boards (8mm, 12mm) cost proportionally less, while 25mm boards command premiums. Metro cities often have competitive pricing due to dealer competition; Tier-3 locations may see 10–15% higher rates due to transport costs.

How to check HDHMR board quality before buying?

Perform these quick checks at the dealer: First, verify weight—genuine HDHMR feels notably heavier than same-size MDF. Second, knock the surface and listen for a dense, solid sound rather than hollow resonance. Third, examine cut edges for uniform density without visible layers or gaps. Fourth, run your palm across the face to confirm smooth, bubble-free surface. Fifth, check thickness with measuring tools—18mm boards should measure within 17.5–18.5mm. Finally, confirm storage conditions are covered and dry, as moisture-exposed boards lose their resistance properties.

Which HDHMR brand is best for modular kitchen work?

Action Tesa leads for modular kitchen applications due to consistent thickness tolerances essential for CNC machining accuracy. GreenPanel is preferred when low formaldehyde emissions matter for health-conscious clients. For budget-focused modular projects, Greenply HDHMR offers good value with acceptable consistency. The choice depends on your CNC equipment sensitivity, client budget, and regional availability. Premium brands reduce rejection rates during processing, potentially offsetting higher material costs through production efficiency gains.

Is HDHMR board good for bathroom vanity and cabinets?

HDHMR is excellent for bathroom vanities and cabinets, significantly outperforming standard plywood or particle board in these high-moisture environments. The high moisture resistance prevents swelling around sink areas where water splashing is constant. Ensure all edges—especially around sink cutouts—receive proper PVC or ABS edge-banding to prevent moisture ingress at exposed surfaces. Premium brands like Action Tesa or Century Ply are recommended for bathroom applications. Position cabinets to avoid direct water contact from shower areas for maximum longevity.

Can HDHMR board be used for outdoor furniture?

HDHMR is not recommended for true outdoor furniture exposed to rain and direct sunlight. While moisture-resistant, HDHMR cannot withstand repeated wetting-drying cycles or prolonged UV exposure that outdoor conditions present. For covered outdoor areas like balconies or sit-outs protected from direct rain, HDHMR with proper weatherproof finishing may be acceptable. For fully exposed outdoor furniture, consider WPC (Wood Plastic Composite), treated solid wood, or aluminium alternatives designed specifically for outdoor durability and weather resistance.

Disclaimer: This content is provided for general informational purposes based on industry practices and publicly available information. Product specifications, standards, prices, and availability may vary by manufacturer, region, and time. Readers should independently verify details with manufacturers, dealers, or qualified professionals before making purchase or construction decisions.