Magnesium Wall Board Benefits and Its Key Features

11 Jul Magnesium Wall Board Benefits and Its Key Features

Have you ever dealt with walls that get wet, crack, or fail fire tests? Many builders and homeowners face these challenges. You need a material that can resist fire, water, and pests while also being environmentally friendly. The magnesium wall board benefits include exceptional strength and long-lasting durability. Additionally, it is eco-friendly, making it a smart choice for sustainable building. More people are choosing these boards every year due to their impressive performance and environmental advantages.

Key Takeaways

• Magnesium wall boards stop fire, water, mold, and pests. This helps buildings stay safe and healthy. These boards are strong and do not break easily. They are light and last for many years. They work well even in hard weather. You can install them with normal tools. The boards are good for inside and outside use. They can be used in many ways. Magnesium wall boards help save energy. They keep heat in and cold out. This helps the environment. You can paint, wallpaper, or tile the walls. This gives you many ways to design your space.

What Is It?

Definition

You might wonder why magnesium wall boards are special. Magnesium wall boards, or MgO boards, are panels used in building. There are two main kinds. One is Magnesium Sulfate based. The other is Magnesium Chloride based. These types have different moisture and corrosion protection. Builders use magnesium wall boards for many things. Some uses are:

• Subflooring
• Wall sheathing
• Partition walls
• Decorative panels
• Structural insulated panels (SIPs)

Industry rules say these differences matter for safety and how well they work.

Composition

Magnesium wall boards are made from a special mix. The main parts are cement, sand, and water. The binder forms when magnesium oxide and magnesium chloride react. Most boards use about 2.5 to 3.5 parts magnesium oxide for every one part magnesium chloride. This mix makes the boards strong and fire resistant. Some boards also have perlite, wood fiber, phosphate, and fiberglass mesh. These extras help the boards stay strong and flexible.

Comparison to Traditional Boards

You may want to know how magnesium wall boards are different from regular boards like fiber cement. The table below shows some important differences:

Magnesium wall boards give better insulation and are lighter. They are also easier to cut and put in place. These features help fix many building problems.

Magnesium Wall Board Benefits

Fire Resistance

You want your building to be safe from fire. Magnesium wall board benefits include strong fire resistance. These boards do not catch fire or make toxic smoke. You can use them in places like kitchens and hallways. They are also good for stores and offices. Here are some important fire safety facts:

• ASTM E84 tests show MgO boards have a 0/0 rating for flame and smoke.
• MgO boards pass the NFPA 285 fire test.
• ASTM E119 ratings can reach up to 2 hours, depending on the wall.
• MgO boards can handle heat up to 1200°F without burning or making bad gases.
• They are non-combustible and meet Class A fire safety rules.
• You can use them in fire-rated walls in hot or risky places.

These features help keep your building safe and give you peace of mind.

Moisture & Mold Resistance

You might worry about water or mold in bathrooms or basements. Magnesium wall board benefits are great here. MgO boards take in very little water—about 0.34%. This is much less than gypsum boards, which take in about 3%. The way MgO boards are made stops mold and mildew from growing. You can use them in wet places without worrying about swelling or cracking. This makes them a smart pick for homes, schools, and hospitals.

Durability

You want walls that last a long time. Magnesium wall board benefits include being very tough. MgO boards stay strong in wet or busy areas. They resist hits better than gypsum drywall. They do not rust, swell, or break down in hard conditions. Look at this table to see the difference:

You can trust MgO boards to last, even in damp or busy spaces.

Insect & Pest Resistance

You do not want bugs or mice in your walls. Magnesium wall board benefits include stopping insects and rodents. The materials in MgO boards do not attract pests. You can use these boards in basements or attics. This helps you avoid repairs and keeps your building safe.

Soundproofing

You may want your home or office to be quiet. Magnesium wall board benefits include blocking sound. MgO boards help stop noise from outside or between rooms. You can use them in walls and ceilings. These boards also resist hits, which helps block sound. You get a quieter and more comfortable space.

Tip: For better soundproofing, use MgO boards with insulation in shared walls or media rooms.

Energy Efficiency

You want to save money on energy bills. Magnesium wall board benefits include better insulation than many other boards. The tiny holes in MgO boards help keep rooms cool in summer and warm in winter. This means you use less heating and cooling. You save energy and money.

Eco-Friendliness

You care about the planet. Magnesium wall board benefits help green building goals. MgO boards use less energy to make and do not make sewage. They take in carbon dioxide from the air, which helps the air inside. These boards have no toxic stuff like formaldehyde or asbestos. Their tiny holes help control room temperature, so you use less energy. Making MgO boards uses less energy and is better for the earth than other materials.

• MgO wallboards use less energy to make and do not make sewage.
• They take in carbon dioxide (CO2) from the air during their life.
• The boards are made from safe materials and have nothing harmful.
• Their tiny holes help control room temperature and save energy.
• Making these boards saves energy and is better for the earth.

You can feel good about picking MgO boards for a healthy and green building.

Key Features

Strength

You want your walls to stand up to daily wear and tear. Magnesium wall boards deliver impressive strength. Tests show that magnesium alloys with added aluminum and zinc reach tensile strengths up to 122 MPa. This means your walls can handle impacts and pressure without cracking. The boards also show high hardness, which helps them resist dents and scratches. When you use magnesium wall boards, you get a surface that stays strong and reliable for years.

Stability

You need walls that stay stable in all kinds of weather. Magnesium wall boards perform well in extreme conditions. They resist cracking, warping, and swelling, even when exposed to high humidity or freezing temperatures. Long-term tests show that these boards keep their shape and strength for over 30 years, even in climates with lots of rain or temperature changes. You can trust them to protect your building from moisture and pests, keeping your space safe and looking good.

Lightweight

You will notice that magnesium wall boards feel lighter than many other building materials. Their low density makes them easy to carry and install. Even though they are lightweight, they remain very strong. You can use thinner panels without losing strength, which reduces the load on your building’s structure. This makes your construction process faster and safer.

Versatility

You can use magnesium wall boards in many places.

• Install them indoors or outdoors.
• Use them for walls, ceilings, subfloors, or even roof decking.
• They work well in offices, schools, hospitals, and wet areas like bathrooms.
• The boards resist fire, mold, insects, and salt, making them suitable for many environments.
• You can cut and install them with standard tools, saving time and labor costs.

Tip: Magnesium wall boards help you finish projects up to 55% faster and can lower labor costs by up to 41%.

Finish Compatibility

You want your walls to look great. Magnesium wall boards accept many finishes. You can paint them, cover them with wallpaper, or apply concrete finishes. Their smooth surface makes it easy to achieve the look you want. This flexibility lets you match any design style, from modern to classic.

Applications & Installation

Where to Use

You can use magnesium wall boards in many places. These boards work well in homes, schools, hospitals, and offices. Builders often choose them for bathrooms, kitchens, and basements because they resist moisture and mold. You can also use them for exterior walls, ceilings, and even subfloors. In commercial buildings, MgO boards help protect against fire and noise. Many people use them in high-traffic areas, such as hallways and stairwells, because they stay strong and look good for years.

A recent study tested wall panels with magnesium oxide boards. The results showed that panels with MgO sheathing had much higher strength. When you use double layers or adjust screw spacing, you can make your walls even stronger. This means you get better performance and safety in your building.

Installation Tips

You can install magnesium wall boards with basic tools. Always let the boards adjust to the room for at least 48 hours before you start. This helps them match the temperature and humidity. Carry the boards on their side to protect the edges. Stack them flat on raised supports so they do not bend. Do not put heavy things on top of the boards.

Use screws or nails to attach the boards to the frame. Make sure the fasteners are spaced evenly. If you need extra strength, use two layers of boards. You can cut MgO boards with a regular saw or knife. After installation, you can paint, tile, or cover the boards with wallpaper.

Tip: Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.

Maintenance

You want your walls to last a long time. Magnesium wall boards need only simple care. Here are some easy steps:

• Keep surfaces dry and check for damage or wear.
• Store boards in a cool, dry place before use.
• Carry boards on their side to avoid edge damage.
• Stack boards flat on raised supports and avoid heavy loads on top.
• Let boards adjust to the room for 48 hours before installing.

MgO boards resist moisture, fire, mold, and insects. Their strength and durability often last longer than drywall. Some ancient structures, like parts of the Great Wall of China, show how long magnesium-based materials can last with proper care. With regular upkeep, you can enjoy safe and strong walls for many years.

Comparison

Drywall

You may know drywall as a common wall material. It is easy to install and costs less than many other options. However, magnesium wall boards give you better performance in key areas. MgO boards do not burn or add fuel to a fire. They have an A1 non-combustible rating and do not spread flames. Drywall can break or warp if it gets wet, but MgO boards stay strong and dry. You also help the environment by choosing MgO boards because they use fewer resources and create less waste.

Note: MgO boards have higher flexural strength and resist water damage better than drywall.

Cement Board

Cement boards are strong and last a long time. You often see them in places that get wet, like bathrooms. Magnesium wall boards give you even more benefits. They weigh less, so you can carry and install them more easily. MgO boards do not crack when the weather changes. They also resist fire and water better than cement boards. You do not need to seal MgO boards to keep out moisture. This helps stop mold from growing. MgO boards also have a lower carbon footprint, so you make a greener choice.

Tip: Use MgO boards if you want a lightweight, fire-safe, and eco-friendly wall solution.

Plywood

Plywood is popular because it is easy to handle and costs less at first. However, you may face problems with moisture, fire, and pests. MgO boards cost more at the start, but you save money over time because they last longer and need less care. MgO boards do not burn, swell, or attract mold. Plywood can warp or rot if it gets wet. MgO boards also use safer, more sustainable materials.

Choosing MgO boards gives you a safer, longer-lasting, and more sustainable wall system.

You have seen how magnesium wall board benefits can transform your building projects.

1. These boards resist fire, water, and mold, keeping your spaces safe and healthy.

2. You get strong, stable walls that last in any climate.

3. Installation is easy, and the boards work for many uses.

4. You help the environment by choosing a product with a low carbon footprint.
   Think about your project needs and see if these features match your goals for safety, durability, and sustainability.

FAQ

What makes magnesium wall boards different from drywall?

You get better fire, mold, and moisture resistance with magnesium wall boards. These boards also last longer and weigh less than drywall. You can use them in more places, including wet or high-traffic areas.

Can you paint or tile over magnesium wall boards?

Yes, you can paint, tile, or wallpaper over magnesium wall boards. Their smooth surface accepts many finishes. You get a clean look and strong bond for your chosen design.

Are magnesium wall boards safe for indoor air quality?

You stay safe with magnesium wall boards. These boards do not release harmful chemicals or VOCs. You help create a healthier indoor space for your family or coworkers.

How do you cut and install magnesium wall boards?

You can cut magnesium wall boards with a standard saw or utility knife. Use screws or nails to attach them to the frame. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.

Where should you use magnesium wall boards in a building?

You can use magnesium wall boards in bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and exterior walls. They work well in schools, hospitals, and offices. You get strong, safe walls in any room.