Fire Resistant MgO Board Use for Decorative Wall Panels

MgO Board Use for Decorative Wall Panels

Fire Resistant MgO Board Use for Decorative Wall Panels

If you want walls that are safer and useful, fire resistant MgO boards are a good choice for wall panels. You can trust these boards because they do not burn. They keep their shape even when it gets very hot. Many builders use them in homes and offices. These boards meet strict safety rules like EN 13501 and ASTM E119. This means they protect your space from fire. They also help block sound and moisture.

Regulation Aspect

Description

Fire Resistance Rating

MgO boards can last over 2 hours against fire.

Non-combustibility

These boards do not burn, so they are safe to use.

Stability at High Temperatures

They stay strong and do not let out harmful gases during a fire.

Key Takeaways

  • MgO boards do not burn in fire. They can protect from fire for up to 2 hours. This makes them a safer choice for wall panels.

  • These boards are strong and last a long time. They can last more than 20 years in busy places. This means you get good value for your money.

  • MgO boards do not get damaged by water. They do not swell when wet. This makes them great for kitchens and bathrooms.

  • They are good for the environment. They do not have bad chemicals like asbestos or formaldehyde. This helps keep the air inside clean.

  • MgO boards can look many different ways. You can choose different finishes and styles. This lets you match your favorite look.

What is MgO Board?

Composition

MgO board means magnesium oxide board. This board is made from natural and safe things. Each part helps the board work well on walls. The table below shows what is inside MgO board and what each part does:

Component

Description

Magnesium Oxide (MgO)

A natural non-toxic inorganic mineral, calcined and pulverized into powders.

Magnesium Chloride

Mixed with MgO powder in an aqueous solution to form a cement slurry.

Perlite

An insulating material that enhances fire resistance, derived from rapidly cooled volcanic lava.

Wood Fiber

Acts as an adhesive in the cement slurry, improving overall performance.

Non-woven Fabric

Composed of fibers, providing moisture-proof and breathable characteristics.

Fiberglass Mesh

Increases strength and toughness of the board, being an inorganic non-metallic material.

This board is strong, safe, and you can count on it. Magnesium oxide helps stop fire from spreading. Perlite keeps heat from moving through the board. Fiberglass mesh makes the board hard to break. Non-woven fabric keeps water out and lets air move through. Wood fiber helps hold everything together.

Tip: MgO board can take very high heat. It does not catch fire even at 1200°C (about 2,192°F). You can trust it to meet Class A1 fire safety rules.

Key Properties

MgO board has many good features for wall panels. The table below lists the main properties:

Property

Description

Dimensional Stability

Won’t warp or shrink with temperature and humidity changes. Ideal for precision installations.

Easy to Work With

Easily cut, screwed, nailed, or glued with standard tools.

Eco-Friendly

Contains no asbestos or formaldehyde; low VOC for safe indoor air quality.

Finishing Versatility

Accepts various finishes like paint, wallpaper, or tiles.

Fire Resistance

Provides thermal stability and structural strength for up to 2 hours of fire protection.

Moisture Resistance

Resists moisture and swelling, suitable for wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

You can cut and shape MgO board with normal tools. You do not need anything special. The board does not bend or get smaller when the weather changes. You can paint it, put wallpaper on it, or add tiles. It works well in kitchens and bathrooms because it does not swell when wet. MgO board is better for the environment because it does not have bad chemicals.

MgO board is a safe, strong, and flexible choice for your decorative wall panels.

Fire Resistant Benefits

Magnesium sulfate boards fire ratingFire Rating

When you choose MgO board for your wall panels, you get one of the highest fire ratings available. MgO board holds an A1 fire rating. This means it does not burn or help a fire grow. You can see how this rating compares to others in the table below:

Classification

Description

A1

Highest fire rating, non-combustible, does not support fire growth.

Class A

High fire resistance, does not burn or spread flames.

MgO board stands out when you compare it to other wall panel materials. The table below shows how it performs:

Material

Fire Resistance

Non-combustibility

Durability in Wet Areas

MgO Boards

1-2 hours

Yes

Yes

Drywall

Low

No

No

Cement Boards

Limited

No

No

You can trust MgO board to stop fire from spreading. It keeps your home or office safer than drywall or cement board. This makes it a top choice for fire resistant wall panels.

High Temperature Resistance

MgO board can handle very high heat. You do not have to worry about it failing during a fire. Here are some facts about its temperature resistance:

Scientists have tested MgO board in the lab. They used special methods to check how it reacts to heat and fire. The table below shows some of these tests and what they found:

Scientific Method

Findings Related to Chemical Structure and Heat Resistance

X-ray Diffraction (XRD)

Showed that MgO changes to magnesium hydroxide when wet, which helps resist heat.

Thermo-gravimetric Analysis (TGA)

Measured how much magnesium hydroxide forms, showing strong heat resistance.

ASTM E84

Proved that flames do not spread across the board’s surface.

ASTM E119

Confirmed that MgO boards stay strong for up to 2 hours in high heat.

EN 13501-1+A1:2010

Gave MgO board an A1 non-combustible rating.

You can use MgO board in places where fire risk is high. It will not break down or let fire pass through easily. This makes it a reliable fire resistant option for your decorative wall panels.

Safety Standards

MgO board meets strict safety standards around the world. You can use it in both homes and businesses with confidence. The table below lists some of the main certifications:

Certification

What It Tests

Fire Rating Type

ASTM E136

Checks if materials are noncombustible.

Noncombustible

ASTM E84

Tests how fire spreads on surfaces.

Class A, B, C

EN 13501-1

Classifies materials based on fire performance.

Class A1 noncombustible

CAN/ULC S114

Tests for noncombustibility in Canada.

Noncombustible

ULC S135

Evaluates fire resistance in Canada.

Fire-rated use

MgO board passes these tests and earns top marks. It does not burn, does not give off harmful smoke, and stays strong during a fire. You get more time to escape if a fire starts. You also protect your building from more damage.

Note: MgO board is recognized for its high fire resistance. It does not burn and helps slow down fire spread. This makes it a smart choice for kitchens, boiler rooms, and other high-risk areas.

You can feel safe knowing that MgO board meets the highest fire resistant standards for both residential and commercial spaces.

Other Advantages

mgo board strengthDurability

You want wall panels that last a long time. MgO boards are strong and reliable. They work well in busy places for up to 20 years. In homes, they can last even longer, sometimes over 25 years. If you pick good MgO boards and install them right, they may last 30 years.

  • MgO boards last 20 to 30 years if installed well.

  • In busy places, they last about 20 years.

  • In homes, they last 25 years or more.

MgO boards are tougher than other wall materials. Here is a comparison:

Material

Durability

Impact Resistance

Magnesium Oxide Board

Stronger

Handles heavy impacts

Gypsum Board

Less strong

Can get damaged easier

MgO boards can handle daily bumps and hits.

Moisture Resistance

Water can ruin many wall panels. MgO boards do not let water in easily. Tests show MgO boards only take in 0.34% moisture. This means they do not swell or bend, even in kitchens or bathrooms.

  • MgO boards take in less water than other boards.

  • After 48 hours in water, MgO boards stay drier than others.

MgO boards keep their shape and strength in wet places.

Mold and Pest Resistance

No one wants mold or bugs in their walls. MgO boards help stop these problems. They do not have organic stuff, so mold cannot grow. Bugs also stay away from MgO panels.

  • MgO board does not swell or break when wet.

  • It stops mold and mildew because it has no organic parts.

  • MgO panels beat gypsum board in wet places by stopping mold, mildew, and pests.

Chemical Resistance

Sometimes you need panels that can handle cleaners or chemicals. MgO boards do not break down when cleaned. They stay strong with most household cleaners. This makes them great for kitchens, hospitals, and schools where cleaning is important.

Design Uses

Styles

You can choose from many styles when you use MgO board for your wall panels. These boards work well with different materials. You can create a look that matches your taste or fits your space. Here are some popular styles you can achieve:

  • PVC panels give a smooth and modern finish.

  • HPL (High Pressure Laminate) adds strength and color.

  • Aluminum skin creates a sleek, metallic look.

  • CPL (Continuous Pressure Laminate) offers durability and design.

  • Cloth panels bring softness and warmth.

  • Leather panels add luxury and texture.

  • Wood skin gives a natural and classic feel.

You can mix these styles to make your walls stand out. Each style has its own look and feel. You can use them in homes, offices, schools, or shops.

Finishes

MgO board lets you pick from many finishes. You can paint the panels, but you need to use a primer first. The board is alkaline, so a primer for concrete or masonry works best. This helps the paint stick well and last longer.

Some paints bond with MgO board and make the surface tough and UV-resistant. You can use these panels in sunny rooms or busy places. Here are other finishes you can use:

  • Paint (with primer)

  • Stucco or synthetic stucco

  • Wallpaper

  • Plaster

  • Stone, tile, or brick

  • EIFS and SIPS systems

You can match the finish to your room’s style. You can also use wallpaper or tiles for a custom look. The right finish makes your wall panels last longer and look better.

Customization

MgO board panels give you many ways to customize your walls. You can pick the size, thickness, color, and texture that fit your project. You can also choose special edge profiles or patterns. The table below shows your options:

Customization Aspect

Options

Size

Various sizes available

Thickness

Different thicknesses

Color

Multiple color choices

Edge

Custom edge profiles

Surface

Various surface textures

Pattern

Custom patterns

You can design walls that match your needs. You can create a bold accent wall or a soft background. MgO board gives you the freedom to make your space unique.

Installation

Magnesium Oxide Board InstallationSteps

You can install MgO decorative wall panels by following a few clear steps. This process helps you get a strong and neat finish.

  1. Preparation: Gather all your tools and materials. Make sure the wall surface is clean, dry, and level. This helps the panels stick well and stay in place.

  2. Installing the Joists: Plan where each joist will go. Secure the joists firmly to the wall. These will support your MgO boards.

  3. Laying the MgO Boards: Cut the boards to the right size. Place them on the wall, leaving small gaps for expansion. This stops the boards from cracking if the temperature changes.

  4. Surface Finishing: Clean the seams between boards. Apply joint tape and compound for a smooth look. Use a primer made for magnesium boards. After priming, paint or finish the surface as you like.

Tip: Always test your paint or finish on a small area first. This helps you check if it sticks well and looks good.

Compatibility

MgO boards work with many wall types. You can use them on wood, concrete, or steel frames. If you use galvanized steel framing, add a barrier between the MgO board and the steel. This stops any reaction between the board and the metal. Always check that your wall is strong and flat before you start.

Tips

  • Make sure your site is clean and dry before you begin.

  • Inspect all boards and materials for damage before use.

  • Mark the wall positions carefully to keep everything straight.

  • Secure both horizontal and vertical supports for a stable frame.

  • Treat the joints with care. Apply several layers of joint compound and sand between coats for a smooth finish.

  • Inspect your work at each step to catch any problems early.

A careful installation gives you a safe, long-lasting, and beautiful wall.

Maintenance

Cleaning

You can keep your MgO board wall panels looking new with simple cleaning steps. Regular care helps the panels last longer and keeps them safe for your family or customers.

  1. Dust the panels with a soft-bristled brush or microfiber cloth to remove loose dirt.

  2. Mix warm water with a small amount of mild detergent in a spray bottle.

  3. Test the cleaning solution on a hidden spot to make sure it does not harm the surface.

  4. Spray the solution on the panel and gently scrub with a microfiber cloth or soft brush.

  5. Rinse the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap.

  6. Dry the panels right away with a dry microfiber cloth to prevent water spots.

If you find tough stains, you can try these tips:

  • For grease or oil, use a degreaser that works with MgO panels and a mild detergent.

  • For mold or mildew, mix water and white vinegar (1:1) and apply to the spot.

  • For ink or marker stains, use rubbing alcohol or a special stain remover and rub gently.

Tip: Always avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive pads. These can scratch or damage the surface.

Lifespan

MgO board wall panels give you long-lasting performance indoors. You can expect them to serve you well for many years.

  • The panels can last at least 33 years under normal indoor conditions.

  • Research shows that well-made MgO boards stay stable for decades in typical environments.

  • You get peace of mind knowing your walls will look good and stay strong for a long time.

Repairs

If your MgO board wall panels get damaged, you can fix them with simple tools and steps. You do not need to replace the whole panel for small problems.

  1. Check the damage. Look for scratches, dents, cracks, or holes.

  2. Gather your tools: safety gear, a utility knife, sandpaper, and MgO board filler.

  3. For minor scratches or dents, clean the area, sand it smooth, apply filler, and paint over it.

  4. For cracks, clean them, fill with MgO filler, use mesh tape if needed, then sand and paint.

  5. For holes, cut a patch from a new board, prepare the hole, install the patch, fill gaps, sand, and paint.

You can also prevent damage by following these tips:

  • Use protective covers when moving heavy items.

  • Keep the area dry to avoid water damage.

  • Check your panels often and fix any issues right away.

Regular care and quick repairs help your MgO wall panels stay beautiful and strong for years.

Comparison

Gypsum Board

Gypsum board is also called drywall. Many people use it because it is cheap and easy to put up. But MgO board is different in many ways. MgO board is much better at stopping fire. It also lasts longer than gypsum board. Gypsum board can take some heat, but it does not do well in a fire. It can also break or get dents if you hit it.

Here is a table that shows how they are different:

Property

MgO Board

Gypsum Board

Fire Resistance

Excellent, withstands high temperatures

Some fire resistance, generally lower performance

Durability

Stronger, impact-resistant

Less strong, prone to damage

Cost

Typically more expensive

Generally less expensive

If you want walls that stay safe and strong, MgO board is better than gypsum board.

Wood Panels

Wood panels like plywood make your walls look warm and nice. Many people like how wood looks, but it does not stop fire. Wood can catch fire fast and burn quickly. MgO board does not burn at all. It keeps its shape even when it gets very hot. MgO board is also better for the earth because it is made from safe materials.

Criteria

MgO Board

Plywood

Fire Resistance

Excellent fire resistance (non-combustible)

Limited, combustible

Environmental Impact

Eco-friendly, non-toxic

Not sustainable

MgO board helps keep your air clean inside. It does not let out bad chemicals, but some wood panels can.

Other Materials

You might see other wall panels like cement, fiber cement, or PVC. Each one has good and bad points. MgO panels are special because they are safe from fire, strong, and good for the environment.

Panel Type

Fire Resistance

Moisture Resistance

Durability

Eco-Friendliness

Cost

MgO Panels

High

Moderate

Very High

High

Moderate

Cement Panels

High

Low

High

Moderate

Low

Fiber Cement Panels

Moderate

High

High

High

Moderate

PVC Panels

Low

Very High

Moderate

Low

High

MgO board is a safe, strong, and earth-friendly choice for your wall panels. You get a wall that lasts and helps keep you safe.

You can count on MgO boards for your wall panels. They are safe, strong, and look nice. Builders like to use them for these reasons:

Key Benefit

Description

Fire Resistance

Passes top fire safety tests for safer rooms.

Durability

Does not crack or bend, so walls last longer.

Moisture Resistance

Stops mold and damage in wet places.

Aesthetic Versatility

Works with many styles and finishes.

People use MgO panels in homes, hospitals, and offices everywhere. They are good for both private and public buildings. Pick fire resistant MgO boards for your next job and talk to an expert for the best results.

FAQ

What makes MgO board safer than regular drywall?

MgO board does not burn. It stays strong in high heat. You get more time to leave safely during a fire. Drywall can break down faster and may not protect you as well.

Can you use MgO board in bathrooms or kitchens?

Yes, you can use MgO board in wet areas. It resists water and does not swell. You will not see mold or mildew grow on it. This makes it a smart choice for kitchens and bathrooms.

How do you cut and shape MgO board?

You can cut MgO board with a utility knife or saw. Use standard tools you already have. Always wear safety goggles and a mask. You get clean edges and easy shapes for your wall panels.

Is MgO board safe for indoor air quality?

Yes, MgO board is safe. It does not have asbestos or formaldehyde. You will not smell strong odors. Your indoor air stays clean and healthy for your family or customers.