I thinking of purchasing some of Shaw's product it is there epic line with the HDF core (wood on top and bottom) I'm looking at SW139, which is there 5" plank walnut product. I'm a diyer and looking for any input or experiences with this product line?

Thanks

A PhD researcher in Quebec did a study on engineered wood cores and found that HDF/MDF cores are twice as susceptible to seasonal fluctuation compared to real wood cores. That's enough for me to steer clear.

Ever spilled water on an MDF piece of furniture (like Ikea's)? It swells up, then never returns to its original size. I wonder if these cores would do the same thing?

I'm not sure if HDF would expand that readily it is increadibly dense/solid. There is a lifetime warranty however. I too want to stick with the tried tested and true product, but the walnut product looks real good and is affordable. In the end I probably will steer clear, not a big risk taker....too bad realy.