A strip of material applied to the exposed edges of manufactured boards, such as particleboard, MDF, or plywood, is a common element in furniture and cabinet construction. This process conceals the core material and provides a more durable and aesthetically pleasing finish. For instance, a kitchen cabinet made from particleboard might have this applied to its doors and drawer fronts to create a seamless, finished appearance.
The application offers several advantages. It protects the core material from moisture, impacts, and general wear and tear, thereby extending the lifespan of the furniture or cabinet. Furthermore, it enhances the visual appeal by covering raw edges with decorative materials like wood veneer, PVC, or ABS, which can match or complement the surrounding surface. Historically, this technique has evolved from simple wooden strips glued to edges to sophisticated thermoplastic applications using automated machinery.