In this project, a study was carried out to investigate the effects of different refining parameters on the properties of dry-process fibreboard, in particular, high density fibreboard as the substrate for flooring products. Refining temperature (as quantified by steam pressure), retention time of preheating, refining specific energy, and speed of the refining were investigated as factors contributing to the physical and mechanical properties of fibreboard. A total of 18 different refining runs were carried out, and 36 laboratory high density fibreboards were produced. The experiment results show that panel stability can be improved substantially and thickness swell can be reduced by optimizing a ‘fit for purpose’ refining strategy.