Top 7 Fire Resistant Sheathing Products for Homes and Businesses

Fire Resistant Sheathing

Top 7 Fire Resistant Sheathing Products for Homes and Businesses

You want better fire safety at home or work. Look at these top 7 fire resistant sheathing products:

  1. PyroGuard Fire Rated Plywood

  2. Gold Bond eXP Fire-Shield Sheathing

  3. LP FlameBlock Fire Resistant Sheathing

  4. Sulfycor Magnesium Oxide Sheathing

  5. ArmorWall Plus Fire-Resistant Building Materials

  6. Cement Board Fire Resistant Wall Panels

  7. Glass-Mat Fire Resistant Sheathing

Magnesium oxide wall panels are special. They can handle strong fire, water, and bugs. Fire-resistant building materials help keep people and things safe.

Fire safety is important for every building. Always check local rules, how to install, and your budget.

Key Takeaways

  • Fire resistant sheathing helps keep buildings safe from fire. It makes homes and businesses safer.

  • Picking the best fire resistant material can help save money on insurance. It can also make your property worth more.

  • You should always look at local building codes. Follow installation rules to stay safe and follow the law.

Fire Resistant Sheathing Overview

What Is Fire Resistant Sheathing

Fire resistant sheathing is not the same as regular wall panels. It uses special materials that slow down fire and heat. These panels help protect buildings if there is a fire. Some types, like magnesium oxide sheathing, are even stronger. They can handle water and hard hits.

Here is how magnesium oxide sheathing compares to regular sheathing:

Feature

MgO Sheathing

Standard Sheathing (e.g., Gypsum, OSB)

Fire Resistance

Non-combustible, A1 fire-rated

Combustible, may require extra layers

Moisture Resistance

Naturally resistant, stable in damp

Absorbs water, can deteriorate

Structural Strength

High impact resistance, durable

Lower strength, prone to warping

Environmental Impact

Low energy production, recyclable

Higher energy use, may contain harmful substances

Fire resistant sheathing gets tested for safety. There are different ratings you should know:

Classification

Description

Noncombustible

Stops flames and heat the best.

Fire resistance

Needs a good assembly and strong outside layer.

Ignition Resistant

Works better than regular materials but not as well as noncombustible.

Combustible

Does not work as well as other types when exposed to fire.

Benefits for Homes and Businesses

Using fire resistant materials for walls and roofs helps a lot. These materials keep people and things safer. Here are some main benefits:

  • You get better protection and feel safer because fire resistant sheathing lowers fire damage.

  • Fire resistant materials help you follow safety rules and lower your risk.

  • Insurance companies may charge you less if you use fire resistant materials.

  • Your property might be worth more if buyers want fire safety.

  • Fire resistant materials make buildings last longer, so you fix less.

  • You help the environment by using green fire resistant materials.

Fire resistant sheathing helps you feel sure about your building. It is very important in places where fires happen often. You keep people, property, and your future safe.

PyroGuard Fire Rated Plywood

Fire Rated PlywoodFeatures

You want something that helps keep you safe from fire. PyroGuard fire rated plywood is great at stopping fire. It has special chemicals that slow down flames. You can use it for lots of projects. It does not cost too much and looks like real wood. Here is how PyroGuard fire rated plywood compares to other fire-resistant products:

Feature

PyroGuard Fire Rated Plywood

Other Fire-Resistant Products

Affordability

Yes

Varies

Fire-Resistant Properties

Excellent

Varies

Flame Spread Rating

Class B

Varies

Treatment with Fire-Retardant

Yes

Varies

Suitability for Interior Use

Yes

Varies

Applications

Fire rated plywood works in many places. You can use it at home or at work. It is good for roofs, floors, and walls. It fits inside jobs like shelves, stairs, and subfloors. You can use it outside for decks, balconies, and siding. Many building rules allow fire rated plywood for walls and storefronts. Here is a quick guide:

Application Type

Specific Uses

Interior Applications

Roof sheathing, trusses, rafters, floor joists, shelving, load-bearing walls, partition walls, studs, beams, blocking, steps, stairways, platforms, stages, subfloors, wall sheathing

Exterior Applications

Decks, balconies, stairways, siding, scaffolding, moulding, trim, open-air roof systems, stables, soffit, fascia, roof sheathing

Compliance

Accepted for partition walls, store fronts, fixtures, roof construction in shopping centers

Fire Ratings

You want to know how well fire rated plywood protects you. PyroGuard fire rated plywood has a Class B flame spread rating. Testing groups like ASTM E-84 check this rating.

  • PyroGuard fire rated plywood has a Class B flame spread rating from ASTM E-84.

Pros and Cons

Fire rated plywood has many good points. You should know the bad points too. Here is a simple table to help you choose:

Advantages

Disadvantages

Fire-retardant plywood does not burn easily.

It costs more than regular wood.

It keeps a nice wood color and look.

Painting can be hard because of the chemicals.

Works inside and outside buildings.

Needs to stay dry and away from too much water.

It can be a smart choice for the future.

May not work well if painted the wrong way.

Tip: If you want fire safety and wood style, fire rated plywood is a good pick. Always follow the rules for putting it in to get the best results.

Gold Bond eXP Fire-Shield Sheathing

Features

You want a sheathing that stands up to fire, moisture, and mold. Gold Bond eXP Fire-Shield Sheathing gives you all that. The core uses gypsum, and the outside has a tough purple fiberglass mat. This combo makes the panel strong and durable. You can leave it outside for up to a year before finishing your project. The GridMarX marks help you install it faster and more accurately. You can score and snap it to fit your space. It works well for soffits and curved walls. Take a look at what makes it special:

Feature

Description

Moisture and Mold Resistance

Extra protection against mold, mildew, and moisture

Fire Resistance

Non-combustible, approved for UL fire-rated designs

Unique Construction

Gypsum core with purple fiberglass mat

Weather Resistance

Handles up to 12 months of outdoor exposure

Installation Efficiency

GridMarX guide marks for quick, accurate installation

Mold Growth Resistance

Top score of 10 on ASTM D3273 mold test

Versatility

Great for soffits, radius walls, easy to cut to size

Applications

You can use Gold Bond eXP Fire-Shield Sheathing in many places. It works for both homes and businesses. You might pick it for exterior walls, soffits, or ceilings. It fits curved surfaces and special shapes. Builders like it for schools, hospitals, and offices. You can use it for tile backers, roof boards, and interior walls. The panel resists mold, so it is good for damp areas.

Fire Ratings

You want to know how well this sheathing protects against fire. Gold Bond eXP Fire-Shield Sheathing meets strict UL standards. The 5/8″ Type X panels get the FSW-6 rating. This means they help slow down fire and keep your building safer. Here is a quick look:

UL Type Designation

Product Description

FSW-6

5/8″ Gold Bond® eXP® Sheathing (Type X)

FSW-6

5/8″ Gold Bond® eXP® Interior Extreme® Fire-Shield® Gypsum Panel (Type X)

FSW-6

5/8″ Gold Bond® eXP® Tile Backer (Type X)

FSW-6

5/8″ Gold Bond® eXP® Interior Extreme® IR Gypsum Panel (Type X)

FSW-6

5/8″ Gold Bond® eXP® Interior Extreme® AR Gypsum Panel (Type X)

FSW-6

5/8″ DEXcell FA® Glass Mat Roof Board

Pros and Cons

You want to weigh the good and the bad before you choose. Here is a simple list:

Pros:

  • Resists fire, mold, and moisture

  • Easy to install with guide marks

  • Handles outdoor weather for up to a year

  • Works for curved and special surfaces

Cons:

  • Costs more than regular sheathing

  • Needs special fasteners for best results

  • Heavier than some other panels

Tip: If you want strong fire protection and mold resistance, Gold Bond eXP Fire-Shield Sheathing is a smart choice for your next project.

LP FlameBlock Fire Resistant Sheathing

LP FlameBlock Fire Resistant Sheathing

image source

Features

You want sheathing that protects from fire and is easy to use. LP FlameBlock Fire Resistant Sheathing does both jobs well. It has a Pyrotite coating that blocks flames and slows burning. The OSB panels are strong, so walls and roofs stay tough. The panel can get wet during building delays and still work. You save money because it goes in fast and needs less work. There are no dangerous chemicals in it. LP FlameBlock helps you follow fire rules quickly.

Here are the main features:

Feature

Description

Fire Resistance

Stops flames and burning, giving you more time to get out.

Structural Strength

OSB panels are strong and have better shear strength than other fire-rated wood panels.

Moisture Resistance

Exposure 1 rating means it can handle wet weather during building delays.

Cost-Effectiveness

Goes in fast, saves work costs, and helps your budget.

Easy Installation

Tough and simple to use, so you finish jobs faster.

Non-Hazardous

Made without dangerous chemicals, keeping you safe.

Fire Code Compliance

Meets fire rules faster because of its fire-rated design.

Burn-Through Resistance

Lasts three times longer against burning than regular wood sheathing.

You also get a Class-A fire rating and a 30-minute flame spread rating. The Pyrotite coating makes fire resistance even better.

Applications

LP FlameBlock works in many places. Builders use it for roofs, walls, and floors in homes and businesses. It is good for places where safety is very important, like schools and hospitals. Prisons use it too, like the Ohio Reformatory for Women, because it keeps people safe and stops escapes. If you need to save money and want strong fire protection, this sheathing is a good choice.

  • Roofing for homes and businesses

  • Wall sheathing in schools, hospitals, and offices

  • Floors in places needing extra safety

  • Projects with tight budgets

Fire Ratings

LP FlameBlock gives strong fire protection. It has a Class-A fire rating, so it slows flames for 30 minutes. The panel lasts three times longer against burning than regular wood. You meet strict fire rules with this sheathing.

Pros and Cons

Here is an easy way to see the good and bad sides:

Pros

Cons

Strong fire and burn-through resistance

Costs more than regular OSB

Full strength for walls and roofs

May need special fasteners

Handles wet weather during delays

Heavier than some other choices

Installs fast, saves work costs

Not always sold everywhere

Safe, non-hazardous materials

 

Tip: If you want fire safety, strength, and easy use, LP FlameBlock Fire Resistant Sheathing is a smart pick for your next project.

Sulfycor Magnesium Oxide Sheathing

Sulfycor Magnesium Oxide SheathingFeatures

You want sheathing that does more than stop fire. Sulfycor Magnesium Oxide Sheathing gives you many good things. Check out the table to see what makes it special:

Feature

Description

Non-combustibility

This material does not burn easily, so it is safer.

Water resistance

It keeps out water, so it works in many places.

Health safety

It is safe for homes and businesses, so you worry less.

Termite proofing

Bugs like termites cannot hurt it, so it lasts longer.

Environmental friendliness

It uses green materials, so it is better for the earth.

Fungus resistance

It stops mold from growing, so it is good for wet places.

High durability

It can take hits and bad weather, so it stays strong.

Strength

It is stronger than most other sheathing materials.

Tip: This product stands up to fire, water, bugs, and mold. You will have less to worry about.

Applications

You can use Sulfycor Magnesium Oxide Sheathing almost anywhere you need. It works inside and outside, in homes, offices, and factories. Here is a quick guide:

Properties

Indoor Applications

Outdoor Applications

Fire Resistance

Good for fire-rated walls and ceilings

Works as fireproof cladding outside

Moisture Resistance

Use on bathroom and kitchen walls

Good for roofs in wet places

Mold/Mildew-proof

Stops mold behind tiles

Use outside where it gets wet

Impact Resistance

Good for busy area walls

Strong for outside walls

Sound Insulation

Helps keep rooms quiet

Blocks noise outside

Thermal Insulation

Keeps rooms warm or cool

Helps outside walls stay insulated

Lightweight/Durability

Easy to move and put up

Lasts long on outside walls

Non-toxic

Safe for healthy indoor spaces

Good for green building outside

Versatility

Use for ceilings and decorations

Works for decks, fences, and signs

Fire Ratings

You want to know if your building is safe. Sulfycor Magnesium Oxide Sheathing meets top fire safety rules:

Fire Rating

Description

A1

This is the best fire safety rating in Europe.

ASTM E136

The boards do not burn in this test.

ASTM E84

Gets a Class A rating for stopping fire and spreading flames slowly.

Pros and Cons

You should look at the good and bad before you buy. Here is a quick look:

Advantages

Description

Ease of installation

It is easy to put in, even for hard jobs.

Durability

It fights fire, water, and mold, so you fix less.

Eco-friendliness

Made from safe, green materials you can recycle.

Disadvantages

Description

Higher upfront costs

It costs more than regular materials at first.

Limited availability

It can be hard to find in some places, so your job may take longer.

  • You pay more at the start, but you save money later.

  • You may need to check if you can buy it near you.

  • Quality can change depending on who makes it.

Note: If you want strong fire safety and long-lasting walls, Sulfycor Magnesium Oxide Sheathing is a smart pick for homes and businesses.

ArmorWall Plus Fire-Resistant Building Materials

Features

ArmorWall Plus does more than just stop fire. It puts many building parts into one panel. Both sides have a strong Magnesium Oxide (MgO) sheathing layer. This setup gives up to two hours of fire resistance. The panel has a barrier that blocks air and water. You can start inside work sooner because of this. You do not need to add extra layers for air, water, or insulation. This saves time and money. The system holds cladding without extra fasteners, so it is easier to put up.

Tip: ArmorWall Plus helps keep your building safe and makes building faster.

Applications

ArmorWall Plus works in lots of places. You can use it in homes, offices, schools, and hospitals. Builders like it for outside walls where fire safety is important. The panel gives strength, fire protection, and blocks air and water. It also adds insulation, so your building stays comfy and uses less energy.

Application Type

Description

Structural Sheathing

Makes walls stronger and safer from fire

Fire-Resistance

Gives two hours of fire protection

Air Barrier

Stops drafts and saves energy

Water-Resistive Barrier

Keeps water out and protects your building

Continuous Insulation

Helps control heat and saves on bills

Fire Ratings

You want to know how well ArmorWall Plus stops fire. It uses a 1/2″ MgO sheathing layer for strong fire safety. It meets NFPA 285 rules and gives up to two hours of fire protection. This makes it one of the best choices for fire-rated walls.

Feature

Description

Product Type

ArmorWall Plus Fire-Rated Structural Insulated Sheathing

Fire Resistance

Up to two hours, meets strict safety codes

Material

1/2″ Magnesium Oxide (MgO) sheathing for durability and strength

Pros and Cons

Think about the good and bad before picking ArmorWall Plus.

Pros:

  • Gives up to two hours of fire safety

  • Combines many building layers in one panel

  • Makes building faster and saves money

  • Strong and tough MgO sheathing

  • Has air and water barriers already on it

Cons:

  • Costs more than simple sheathing

  • May need workers with special skills

  • Not sold everywhere

Note: If you want great fire safety and a quick build, ArmorWall Plus is a smart pick for your next project.

Cement Board Fire Resistant Wall Panels

Cement Board Fire Resistant Wall PanelsFeatures

You want strong protection for your building. Cement board fire resistant wall panels give you that. These panels can handle temperatures over 1,000°C for more than two hours without releasing harmful fumes. You get extra safety in case of fire. The panels have hydrophobic additives, so they absorb less water, even in very humid places. You will notice the impact resistance, too. The 12mm thickness gives you 35% more strength than regular cement boards. If you need tough fire resistant wall panels, this option stands out.

  • Fire protection for over 120 minutes at extreme heat

  • Moisture resistance with water absorption below 15%

  • Impact resistance with thicker panels

  • No harmful fumes during fire

  • Reliable in wet or high-traffic areas

Applications

You can use fire resistant wall panels in many places. Builders choose them for homes, offices, and schools. These panels work well in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms because they resist water and mold. You see them near fireplaces and furnaces, where heat is a problem. Fire resistant wall panels help slow down fire and keep damage low. You can use them in hallways, stairwells, and even outside walls. When you want a safe building, fire resistant wall panels make a big difference.

Fire Ratings

You want to know how safe your walls are. Cement board fire resistant wall panels reach Class A1 or A2 ratings. This means they do not burn or only burn a little. The panels have very low flame spread and smoke values. You get peace of mind because these fire resistant wall panels meet strict ASTM and British standards. They pass tests for non-combustibility and fire propagation. You can trust fire resistant wall panels to protect your building under tough conditions.

Pros and Cons

You should look at the good and bad sides before you choose fire resistant wall panels.

  • Waterproof and fireproof, perfect for wet areas

  • Durable for busy places and harsh weather

  • Heat resistant, safe near fireplaces

  • Termite-proof, keeps bugs away

But you need to know the downsides, too.

  • Heavy and hard to install, needs special tools

  • Costs more than drywall or plywood

  • Weight makes moving and putting up panels harder

Tip: If you want safety and strength, fire resistant wall panels are a smart choice. You get protection from fire, water, and pests, but you may need extra help to install them.

Glass-Mat Fire Resistant Sheathing

Features

You want a sheathing that stands up to fire, water, and mold. Glass-mat fire resistant sheathing gives you all three. The core uses gypsum, and the outside has a fiberglass mat. This combo makes the panel strong and tough. You can leave it outside for months before finishing your project. The surface does not break down in the rain or sun. You can cut it easily with a utility knife. Many brands color the panels yellow or purple, so you spot them fast on a job site.

Key features:

  • Non-combustible gypsum core

  • Fiberglass mat for extra strength

  • Mold and moisture resistance

  • Easy to score and snap

  • Weather-resistant for up to 12 months

Applications

You can use glass-mat sheathing in many places. Builders pick it for outside walls, soffits, and ceilings. It works well in schools, hospitals, and offices. You can use it behind brick, stone, or siding. It also fits curved walls and special shapes. If you need a panel for wet or humid areas, this is a smart choice.

Tip: Use glass-mat sheathing where you want fire safety and moisture protection at the same time.

Fire Ratings

You get strong fire protection with glass-mat sheathing. Most panels meet ASTM E136 for non-combustibility. Many brands offer a 1-hour or 2-hour fire rating when you use them in a tested wall system. The panels also meet Class A (or Type X) fire ratings.

Test Standard

Fire Rating

ASTM E136

Non-combustible

ASTM E119

1-2 hour assembly

ASTM E84

Class A/Type X

Pros and Cons

Here is a quick look at the good and bad sides:

Pros:

  • Resists fire, mold, and water

  • Easy to install and cut

  • Works for many building types

Cons:

  • Costs more than regular gypsum

  • Heavier than wood panels

  • Needs special fasteners for best results

Note: If you want a panel that fights fire and moisture, glass-mat sheathing is a solid pick for your next project.

Fire Resistant Sheathing Comparison

You want to pick the best fire resistant sheathing for your building. Let’s look at how these top products stack up. The table below shows you the fire resistance rating, flame spread rating, cost, and best use cases for each option. You can see which fire resistant wall panels or fire rated plywood fit your needs.

Product Name

Fire Resistance Rating

Flame Spread Rating

Cost

Best Use Cases

PyroGuard Fire Rated Plywood

Class B

Class B

$$

Interior walls, roofs, floors

Gold Bond eXP Fire-Shield Sheathing

1-2 hours

Class A

$$$

Exterior walls, soffits

LP FlameBlock Fire Resistant Sheathing

Class A, 30 min

Class A

$$$

Walls, roofs, schools

Sulfycor Magnesium Oxide Sheathing

A1, ASTM E136

Class A

$$$$

Wet areas, fireproof cladding

ArmorWall Plus

Up to 2 hours

Class A

$$$$

Commercial, hospitals

Cement Board Fire Resistant Wall Panels

A1/A2, 2+ hours

Class A

$$$

Kitchens, bathrooms

Glass-Mat Fire Resistant Sheathing

1-2 hours

Class A

$$$

Exterior, humid areas

Tip: If you want the lowest cost, fire rated plywood works well for basic fire safety. Need top fire resistance rating? ArmorWall Plus and Sulfycor magnesium oxide sheathing give you the best protection. For wet places, cement board fire resistant wall panels and glass-mat fire resistant sheathing keep out moisture and mold.

You should check fire ratings and standards before you buy. Fire resistant wall panels with a high flame spread rating slow down fire and help you meet fire safety rules. If you want easy installation, fire rated plywood and LP FlameBlock fire resistant sheathing save you time. For strong fire safety in busy places, pick fire resistant wall panels with a high fire resistance rating.

  • Want budget-friendly fire safety? Choose fire rated plywood.

  • Need moisture resistance? Go for cement board fire resistant wall panels.

  • Looking for the highest fire resistance rating? ArmorWall Plus is your best bet.

  • Want a panel that slows fire and meets fire ratings and standards? LP FlameBlock and glass-mat fire resistant sheathing are solid picks.

Fire safety matters for every building. You can find fire resistant sheathing and fire resistant wall panels for any job. Always check the flame spread rating and fire resistance rating to keep your property safe.

Choosing Fire Resistant Building Materials

Code Requirements

You need to check local codes before you pick fire resistant materials. Every city has rules for fire safety. These rules tell you what fire resistant wall panels you can use. Some places want fire-resistant glass or fire-resistant windows for extra protection. You should ask your building inspector about safety standards. If you follow the rules, you keep your building safe and avoid fines.

Installation Tips

You want your fire resistant wall panels to work well. Always read the instructions from the maker. Use the right tools and fasteners. If you install fire resistant materials wrong, you lose fire safety. You should seal gaps and joints to stop fire from spreading. Some panels need special tape or caulk. Fire-resistant glass needs careful handling. You can ask a pro for help if you feel unsure. Good installation gives you enhanced fire resistance.

Tip: Clean the area before you start. A clean space helps fire resistant materials stick better.

Budget Considerations

You want fire safety, but you also want to save money. Fire resistant wall panels cost more than regular ones. You can choose panels that fit your budget and still meet fire safety rules. Some fire resistant materials last longer, so you spend less on repairs. Fire-resistant glass costs more, but it gives you extra protection. You can mix fire resistant wall panels with other fire resistant materials to save money. Always compare prices and check for deals.

Material Type

Cost Level

Best Use Case

Fire resistant wall panels

$$$

Walls, ceilings, floors

Fire-resistant glass

$$$$

Windows, doors

Fire resistant materials

$$-$$$$

Roofs, cladding, trim

You can make smart choices for fire safety and your wallet.

You want strong fire protection for your building. Fire resistant wall panels help you fight fire and boost fire safety. Compare fire ratings, features, and costs before you choose. Ask local experts about fire codes. Contact suppliers for fire resistant wall panels and get quotes. Stay safe from fire every day.

FAQ

What does “fire resistance rating” mean?

Fire resistance rating shows how long a material can stop fire. You see ratings like 30 minutes, 1 hour, or 2 hours.

Can you install fire resistant sheathing by yourself?

You can install some panels yourself. Always read the instructions. For heavy panels, you may need help or special tools.

Which fire resistant sheathing works best for wet areas?

These options resist water and mold. You get strong protection in bathrooms or kitchens. 🚿