Magnesium Wall Board vs Gypsum Board Full Comparison for Modern Construction

11 Jul Magnesium Wall Board vs Gypsum Board Full Comparison for Modern Construction

You want a building material that is strong and lasts long. Magnesium wall board is often better than gypsum board in new buildings. It is best when you need fire safety, moisture control, and strength. Mgo board stays strong after freezing and wet weather. Mgo can resist fire for up to 2 hours. Gypsum board does not last as long in fire. Magnesium wall board also fights mold and moisture better than gypsum. Mgo board can help you save up to 55% on repairs. This is more savings than with gypsum board. If you build in wet places or want more safety, mgo is the better choice.

Key Takeaways

• Magnesium wall board is better at stopping fire. It also controls moisture well and lasts longer than gypsum board. This makes it great for places that get wet or might catch fire.
• Gypsum board weighs less and is simple to put up. It also costs less money. This makes it good for dry rooms with little use and for easy home projects.
• Magnesium wall board does not let mold or mildew grow. It has no paper or things that mold likes. This helps walls stay clean and healthy.
• Magnesium wall board costs more at first and is heavier. But it saves money later because you fix or replace it less.
• You should pick the board that fits your project. Use magnesium wall board if you want strong and safe walls. Use gypsum board if you want a fast and cheap job.

Overview

Magnesium Wall Board

Magnesium wall board, or mgo board, is used a lot in new buildings. This board has a magnesium oxide core with fiberglass mesh and other things mixed in. Mgo board is heavier and thicker than gypsum board. It weighs between 950 and 1050 kg/m³. It is very strong and does not break easily. This makes it good for busy places where walls get bumped a lot.

Mgo board is great at stopping fire. It does not catch fire or help fire spread. This makes it safe for fire-rated walls. You can use magnesium wall board inside or outside. It also works for floors and roofs. The board does not let water, mold, or mildew grow because it is not made from living things. You do not have to worry about termites or fungus. The board stays strong even when it is wet or humid.

Tip: Keep mgo boards dry and stand them on their side to keep the edges safe.

Magnesium oxide board is good for the environment. It takes in CO2 while it dries and has no harmful glue. You can cut and put it up with normal tools. But you may need someone with experience to do the best job. The board comes in different thicknesses like 1/4″, 1/2″, and 3/4″. It can be flat or have tongue-and-groove edges.

Gypsum Board

Gypsum board is the most used wall board in the U.S. People use it for inside walls and ceilings in homes, schools, and offices. This board has a core made from calcium sulfate dihydrate. It is usually covered with paper or fiberglass. Gypsum board is lighter than mgo board. It weighs between 640 and 800 kg/m³.

Gypsum board gives good fire safety and blocks sound well. But it does not stop fire as well as mgo board. It is easy to cut, carry, and put up. Many people use it for do-it-yourself jobs. Gypsum board costs less and you can find it almost anywhere. You can recycle the paper on the outside. Some boards use fake gypsum, which is better for the earth.

Gypsum board is getting more popular every year. The market could reach $48 billion by 2033. New types of gypsum board can clean air or block noise better. But gypsum board does not work as well as mgo board in wet places or where walls get hit a lot.

Material Comparison

Composition

You need to know what makes up each board before you choose one for your project. Magnesium oxide board uses a mix of magnesium oxide, magnesium chloride, and other natural minerals. Manufacturers add fiberglass mesh to make the board stronger. This mix gives mgo board its high performance in fire and moisture resistance. You will find that mgo does not use paper or organic fillers. This means it does not feed mold or mildew.

Gypsum board uses a core of gypsum, which is a soft mineral called calcium sulfate dihydrate. The core sits between layers of paper or fiberglass mats. Some boards use recycled paper, which helps the environment. Gypsum board can also have additives to improve fire resistance or reduce water absorption. You will see that the paper facing makes it easy to paint or finish. However, the paper can soak up water if the room gets wet.

Note: If you want a board that resists mold and water, mgo board gives you better performance than gypsum board.

Density and Weight

The density and weight of each board affect how you handle and install them. Mgo board feels heavier and denser than gypsum board. The density of mgo board ranges from 950 to 1050 kg/m³. This high density gives mgo board its strength and impact resistance. You can use mgo board in places where walls get hit or bumped often. The extra weight also helps block sound, which improves performance in noisy areas.

Gypsum board is lighter, with a density between 640 and 800 kg/m³. You can carry and cut gypsum board more easily. This makes it a popular choice for quick jobs or do-it-yourself projects. The lighter weight means you can install gypsum board faster, but it does not offer the same strength as mgo board. If you need a board for ceilings or large walls, you may prefer gypsum board because it is easier to lift.

You should think about the weight of each board when planning your project. Heavy boards like mgo board may need more workers or special tools. Lighter boards like gypsum board save time but may not last as long in tough conditions.

Tip: Always check the weight before you start your project. This helps you plan for safe lifting and better performance.

Fire Resistance

Test Results

When you choose a wall board for fire-prone environments, you want to know how it performs in a fire. Both mgo board and gypsum board go through strict fire testing. The main test is ASTM E119. This test checks how long a wall system can stand up to fire and water from a hose. You see these results as fire resistance ratings, like one-hour or two-hour fire-rated assemblies.

• ASTM E119 measures how long a wall system with fire rated gypsum board can hold back fire.
• The test uses a furnace to heat the wall. It checks if the wall keeps its shape and blocks fire for a set time.
• After heating, the test sprays the wall with water to see if it stays strong.
• Ratings from this test help you know if a board is safe for your building.

Mgo board stands out in these tests. It gets a Class A fire rating. This means it does not burn or help fire spread. Mgo board can handle temperatures over 750°C for more than 30 minutes without changing color or shape. It also releases water vapor during a fire, which cools the area and slows the fire. Gypsum board also does well in fire tests. Fire rated gypsum board uses special additives to slow down heat and keep the wall strong. Type X and Type C fire rated gypsum board are common in fire-rated assemblies. These boards meet the standards for one-hour or two-hour fire resistance.

You will find that mgo board usually gives higher fire resistance than gypsum board. Mgo board does not burn, while gypsum board can break down faster in high heat. Both boards help you meet building codes, but mgo board offers high fire resistance for the toughest jobs.

Note: Always check the fire resistance rating on the board label. This helps you pick the right board for your project.

Real-World Use

You want to know how these boards work in real fires, not just in labs. Real-world tests and case studies show big differences in performance. In some full-scale fire tests, mgo board failed after 30 minutes because of cracking and mass loss. The board lost about 50% of its mass, while gypsum board lost only 24%. This means that in some cases, gypsum board can last longer before breaking down.

Other tests on wall systems lined with different boards show that mgo board and light concrete boards give better fire resistance than gypsum board. Walls with mgo board as the base layer protect buildings better in fire-prone environments. Experts recommend using mgo board instead of gypsum board for more safety in mid-rise buildings.

You also see that mgo board holds an A1 fire rating under ASTM E84-24 and EN 13501-1+A1:2010. This is the highest level of fire resistance. Mgo board does not spread flames or make much smoke. During a fire, it can release up to 30 pounds of water vapor, which helps keep the fire from spreading. Gypsum board does not have this feature.

Fire rated gypsum board is still the most common choice for homes and offices. It meets code and gives good fire resistance. High-performance fire rated gypsum board, like Type X and Type C, uses additives to slow heat and keep the wall strong. These boards work well in fire-rated assemblies and help protect your building.

You should think about the type of building and the level of fire risk. If you build in fire-prone environments or need the best fire resistance properties, mgo board gives you more protection. For most homes and offices, fire rated gypsum board is enough. Both boards help you meet safety rules, but mgo board gives you extra peace of mind in tough conditions.

Tip: Use mgo board in places where fire risk is high or where you need the best fire safety. Use fire rated gypsum board for standard walls and ceilings.

Moisture and Mold

Water Resistance

You want your walls to stay strong if they get wet. Magnesium wall board is very good at stopping water. This board only takes in about 0.34% water. You can put it underwater for 100 days. It will not lose its shape or strength. Gypsum board takes in about 3% water. If you use it in a wet place, it can swell or break. Even special “green boards” do not work as well as magnesium wall board.

Here is a quick comparison:

Tip: If you build in a bathroom, kitchen, or basement, pick a board that stops water. This helps you avoid big repair bills later.

Mold and Mildew

It is important to stop mold for a healthy home. Magnesium wall board does not use paper or things mold likes. Mold and mildew cannot grow on it, even in damp rooms. Your walls stay clean and safe for your family. This board also keeps its shape and strength over time.

Gypsum board has a paper layer. When this paper gets wet, mold can grow. Even if you use a special gypsum board, it still takes in more water than magnesium wall board. Over time, you might see black spots or smell something bad. You may need to change the board if mold grows.

Magnesium wall board gives you:

• High resistance to water and mold
• Less chance of health problems from mold
• Walls that last longer in wet places

Gypsum board gives you:

• Some water resistance if you use special types
• More risk of mold in wet rooms

You keep your home and family safe when you pick a board that stops water.

Strength and Durability

Impact Resistance

You want your walls to stand up to bumps, knocks, and daily wear. Magnesium wall board gives you much higher impact resistance than gypsum board. This comes from the fiberglass mesh inside the board. Tests show that magnesium wall board can handle impacts of 4.5 kilojoules or more. Gypsum board, with its paper facing, only manages about 1 kilojoule. If you use gypsum board in busy areas, you may see cracks or dents after a short time.

• Magnesium wall board stays strong even if you hit it hard.
• Gypsum board cracks more easily and may need repairs sooner.

A table can help you see the difference:

If you build in schools, hospitals, or busy homes, magnesium wall board gives you better performance and fewer repairs.

Longevity

You want your walls to last for many years. Magnesium wall board outperforms gypsum board in long-term use, especially in tough places. Studies show that magnesium wall board keeps its shape and strength after years of humidity, temperature changes, and even freeze-thaw cycles. The board does not swell, warp, or lose its fire resistance. You may see some surface whitening, but the core stays stable.

Gypsum board does not last as long in wet or changing conditions. Over time, it can absorb moisture, swell, and crack. You may need to replace it more often, which adds to your costs.

• Magnesium wall board keeps its performance in humid and fire-prone areas.
• Gypsum board works well in dry, low-traffic spaces but may fail sooner in harsh environments.

A long-term study found that magnesium wall board needs less maintenance and fewer replacements. This means you save money and time over the life of your building. If you want the best strength and durability, magnesium wall board is the smart choice for modern construction.

Environmental Impact

Sustainability

You want to pick building materials that are good for the earth. Magnesium wall board is better for the planet than many other boards. It takes less energy to make because it is heated at lower temperatures. This means factories use less power and make less pollution. When magnesium wall board dries, it even pulls carbon dioxide from the air. This helps cancel out some of the carbon made during production. It can offset up to 40% of the carbon released.

Here is a table that shows how magnesium wall board helps the environment:

Gypsum board needs more energy to make. It does not take in carbon dioxide after it is made. If you want to help the earth, magnesium wall board is a better choice. It also keeps out water, so your walls last longer and you throw away less material.

🌱 Using magnesium wall board is a smart way to build and protect the environment.

Health and Safety

You want clean air at home or work. Some wall boards can let out chemicals like formaldehyde. Studies show that rooms with bad airflow can have about 180 μg/m³ of formaldehyde. This comes from wood products and some boards. Too much formaldehyde can make people sick, especially kids.

Magnesium wall board does not use harmful glues or resins. It lets out fewer chemicals into the air inside. Gypsum board also has low emissions, but you should check if it has extra coatings. Good airflow helps keep your air safe, no matter which board you use.

Magnesium wall board:

• Very low chemical emissions
• No added formaldehyde
• Safe for schools, hospitals, and homes

Gypsum board:

• Usually safe, but check for extra chemicals
• Low emissions if it is plain

You keep yourself and your family healthy when you pick boards with low emissions and strong water resistance. Always ask for safety information before you buy building materials.

Cost

Material Price

You want to know how much each board will cost before you start your project. Magnesium wall board usually costs more than gypsum board at the store. You might pay about $1.50 to $2.50 per square foot for magnesium wall board. Gypsum board often costs less, around $0.40 to $1.00 per square foot. This makes gypsum board a popular choice for people who want to save money on materials.

However, you should also think about other costs. Magnesium wall board is heavier, so you may need more help to move it. Some projects need special tools or skilled workers for installation. This can add to your labor costs. Gypsum board is lighter and easier to cut. You can install it faster, which saves time and money on labor.

Tip: Always check both the price of the board and the cost to install it. Sometimes a cheaper board can cost more in the end if it needs extra work.

Long-Term Value

You want your walls to last and not need many repairs. Magnesium wall board gives you better value over time. It resists mold, mildew, and fire. You will spend less on repairs and replacements. Gypsum board can get damaged by water or mold. You may need to fix or replace it more often, especially in wet places.

Here is a table that shows how the costs compare over the life of your project:

🏆 If you want to save money in the long run, magnesium wall board is a smart choice for places with lots of moisture or fire risk. Gypsum board works well for dry, low-traffic rooms where you do not expect many problems.

Installation

Ease of Use

You want a wall board that makes your job simple and fast. The ease of installation can change how long your project takes and how much effort you need. Gypsum board is lighter and easier to lift. You can cut it with a utility knife and snap it along a straight edge. Many people like gypsum board because the installation process is quick and does not need special skills. You can finish a room in less time, and you do not need a big team.

Magnesium wall board is heavier and denser. The installation process takes more time and may need more workers. You must handle the boards with care to avoid chipping the edges. The ease of installation is lower for magnesium wall board, especially if you have never used it before. You may need to hire skilled workers for the best results. If you want a board for a do-it-yourself project, gypsum board is the better choice.

Tip: Always check the weight of each board before you start the installation process. This helps you plan for safe lifting and better results.

Tools Needed

You need the right tools for a smooth installation process. For gypsum board, you only need basic tools like a utility knife, tape measure, T-square, drywall saw, and screw gun. Most people already have these tools at home.

Magnesium wall board needs more tools and safety gear. Technical guides list the following items for the installation process:

• Safety glasses and dust masks
• Gloves
• Putty knives and saw horses
• Squares for measuring
• Carbide tipped scoring knives or utility knives
• Fiber cement shears
• Dust reducing circular saws
• Polyurea or modified epoxy seam fillers
• Underlayment
• Fasteners (type depends on your project)
• Adhesives that meet ASTM D3498 or similar standards

You must follow the instructions for spacing and fastening. Always wear safety gear to protect yourself from dust and sharp edges. The right tools make the installation process safer and help you get a better finish.

Note: The technical guides do not list the cost of tools, but you may spend more on tools for magnesium wall board.

Applications

Residential

You want your house to be safe and last a long time. Magnesium wall board is good for rooms that get wet or need strong walls. You can use it in bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and laundry rooms. These rooms often have water or are damp. Magnesium wall board stops mold and mildew from growing. This helps keep your family healthy. It also does not burn easily, so you feel safer.

Gypsum board is used a lot in living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways. You can put it up fast and paint or wallpaper over it. Regular gypsum board costs less and is good for dry rooms. If you want more fire safety, you can use Type X gypsum board. This is good for walls between the garage and house or for ceilings. Gypsum board gives a smooth look and blocks sound well.

Tip: Pick magnesium wall board for rooms with water or lots of use. Use gypsum board in dry rooms for easy work and to save money.

Commercial

You need strong materials that follow rules and last in busy places. Magnesium wall board is a top choice for many big buildings. You see it in schools, hospitals, hotels, and tall buildings. Builders like it because it is safe from fire, strong, and better for the earth. Many new offices and public buildings use magnesium wall board to meet green rules and fire laws.

Gypsum board is also used in many business places. Regular gypsum board covers big office walls and ceilings because it is cheap and easy to use. Type X gypsum board is used where fire safety is important, like stairs and hallways. Builders use large sheets to make smooth, strong walls with fewer lines.

Magnesium boards are picked in business buildings for:

• Great fire safety
• Not too heavy
• Good for the environment
• Meeting green building rules and getting rewards
• Use in tall and important buildings

Gypsum boards are still wanted for:

• Being useful and saving money
• Fast work in big rooms
• Better fire safety with Type X boards
• Nice finishes and blocking noise

Note: Choose the right board for your project. Magnesium wall board is best where you need safety and strong walls. Gypsum board is good for quick, low-cost jobs.

Magnesium Oxide Board Advantages

Key Benefits

If you pick mgo board, you get many good things. Mgo board is very strong against fire. It does not burn or help fire spread. It also lasts a long time and keeps out water. You can use mgo board where safety and long life are important.

Here is a table that shows how mgo board works compared to other boards:

Mgo board gives you peace of mind. It keeps its shape in heat or wet weather. You do not have to worry about mold or bugs. Mgo board stays strong where other boards break.

Mgo board is also better for the earth. It uses natural things and does not hurt the environment much. You can use mgo board on walls, ceilings, floors, and outside. This makes it a smart pick for homes, schools, and offices.

Tip: If you want a wall that lasts, saves money, and keeps you safe, mgo board is the best choice.

Pros and Cons Table

When you look at mgo and gypsum board, you notice big differences. The table below helps you pick the right board for your project. Use this guide to see what each board does well and where it is weak.

Tip: Pick mgo if you want walls that last in wet or fire-risk places. Choose gypsum board if you need a cheap, quick fix for dry rooms.

Quick Pros and Cons List

Mgo Board

• ✅ Great at stopping fire and water
• ✅ Mold, mildew, and bugs cannot grow on it
• ✅ Very strong and lasts a long time
• ✅ Good for roofs, walls, and floors
• ❌ Costs more at first
• ❌ Heavy, so you must move it with care
• ❌ Harder to find in some places

Gypsum Board

• ✅ Light and simple to put up
• ✅ Cheap and easy to buy
• ✅ Works well for most inside walls and ceilings
• ❌ Not strong in wet or busy places
• ❌ Needs to be thicker for best fire safety
• ❌ Can get moldy if it gets wet

You can see mgo is best for strength, safety, and saving money later. Gypsum board is good if you want a fast, easy, and low-cost choice for dry, quiet rooms.

You want to pick the best wall board for your job. Mgo board is great at stopping fire and water. It also helps you save money over time. More than 1,000 tests show mgo board stays strong in wet places. It is safer than other boards. Mgo board uses materials that are good for the earth. It helps you build in a way that is better for the planet. You will spend less on repairs because mgo board lasts longer. Always check if your supplier gives good help and support. Ask experts for advice to get the best results. Pick mgo board if you want safety, strength, and to help the environment.

Tip: Think about fire safety, water, your budget, and the earth before you pick a board. Mgo board helps you build safer and smarter.

FAQ

What is the main difference between magnesium wall board and gypsum board?

You will notice that magnesium wall board resists fire, water, and mold better than gypsum board. Gypsum board costs less and is easier to install. Magnesium wall board lasts longer in tough conditions.

Can you use magnesium wall board outside?

Yes, you can use magnesium wall board for exterior walls, soffits, and even roofs. It stands up to rain, humidity, and temperature changes. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.

Is magnesium wall board safe for people with allergies?

Magnesium wall board does not use paper or organic fillers. Mold and mildew cannot grow on it. You get cleaner air and fewer allergy risks in your home or office.

Does magnesium wall board need special tools for installation?

You can cut magnesium wall board with carbide-tipped knives or fiber cement shears. You may need dust masks and gloves for safety. The board is heavier, so you might need help to lift it.

Which board is better for bathrooms and kitchens?

You should pick magnesium wall board for bathrooms and kitchens. It resists water and mold much better than gypsum board. Your walls will last longer and stay cleaner in wet areas.