Can You Plaster A Magnesium Board?

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Can You Plaster A Magnesium Board?

The building industry has completely changed since Magnesium boards were introduced. The boards are trendy and have characteristics that distinguish them from other materials. 

However, the key to their success lies in finishing. Of the different finishing options, plastering Magnesium boards is one that doesn’t break the bank. The simple and quick process gives boards a glorious look, so you can use them wherever possible. 

Besides this, plaster helps Magnesium boards withstand extreme weather conditions. 

Can you plaster a Magnesium board? This guide will take you through the process of plastering Magnesium boards so you won’t have to depend on others next time. 

So, without further ado, let’s get into the topic. 

What are MgO Boards?

Emerged as a competent building material, Magnesium boards are well-known in the building industry. The primary material for these boards is Magnesium. But depending upon the constituent material, it can be categorized into different types like:

  • Magnesium oxide (MgO) boards 
  • Magnesium Chloride boards 
  • Magnesium Sulphate boards

These boards have extraordinary characteristics that make them stand out in the market. Magnesium boards have:

  • Excellent fire resistance 
  • Water resistance
  • Mold resistance 
  • Noise insulation properties
  • High strength and durability 

Want to know more? Read out the complete guide to learn the properties of magnesium boards. 

Magnesium boards are also an eco-friendly and sustainable building material. 

Applications of Magnesium Boards 

Due to their extraordinary characteristics, Magnesium boards are widely used in the exterior and interior of buildings. These multipurpose boards can be used in:

  • Ceiling 
  • Wall sheathing 
  • Flooring 
  • Sub-flooring 
  • Tile-backing 
  • Furniture and duct covering 

To know more about the applications of the MgO board, read this guide. 

Why Finishing Matters?

After you use the MgO boards in the interior or exterior of your room, the next step is finishing. Besides leveling up the whole look of your space, finishing is crucial for multiple other reasons. MgO boards should not be exposed to heavy rain and extreme heat for long. Exposure to extreme conditions can cause the expansion or contraction of boards. 

And that’s why finishing is a MUST. 

Depending on where you’ve used the MgO boards, you can choose one of the following finishing options:

  • Paint
  • Plaster 
  • Tiles 

Steps to Plaster a Magnesium Board

MgO boards are relatively easy to plaster, making them a treat to work with. You only need safety instruments, a knife, fiber-mesh tape, primer, plaster, and paint.

Ready? Let’s get into how you can plaster a magnesium board. 

Step 1: Preparing the MgO board (cleaning, priming, etc.)

  • To start with, make sure the boards are dry. Clean the surface of the boards with a cloth, removing dust and stains. The better you prepare the surface of the boards, the finer the result will be. 
  • Then, cover the joints between MgO boards. You can use fiber mesh or wire scrim to mesh all the joints between boards. 
  • Once done, apply a coat of plaster primer. The primer will act as the base coat for color imperfections, including color differences to stains. 

Primer will make a foundation for smooth painting. 

Step 2: Prepare the Plaster

Once the MgO board is ready, it’s time to plaster the wall. 

  • Choose a plaster that fits your budget. 
  • To prepare the plaster, fill a bucket with clean water. Add the plaster slowly and mix it. You can use your hands or a power mixer. Mix the mixture until it becomes lump-free and has a mud-like consistency.

For better results, follow the instructions mentioned over the plaster pouch. 

Step 3: Apply the Plaster

  • Now that your plaster is ready apply it to magnesium boards with a plasterer’s hawk and smooth the plaster with a trowel. 
  • Apply the plaster with firm and even pressure to make the face flawless. 
  • Wait for 20 minutes, and then use the trowel to fix bumps and gaps. 
  • Apply the second coat, but this keeps the consistency of the plaster thin, or follow the instructions. 
  • Apply in the same manner, and it’s done. 
  • Wait for the plaster to dry completely for 24 hours. Then, use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth the rough edges, and here you go!
  • Apply a sealant primer to protect the plaster. 

Your Magmesium board is ready.

Mistakes to Avoid 

A small mistake in prep and applying plaster would cost you much. So, it’s good to know all those mistakes that make the final look not-so-catchy. Here are the common mistakes you must avoid:

  • Not preparing the surface 
  • Not priming 
  • Mixing material in an incorrect proportion 
  • Incorrect plaster mixing 
  • Using incorrect tools 

Take extra precautions to commit these mistakes and plaster Magnesium board like PRO. 

Get In Touch

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Plastering Magnesium Boards Vs. Gypsum Boards 

Compared to traditional boards, plastering Magnesium boards is relatively easy and quick. Here’s the comparison between Magnesium boards and Gypsum boards:

FeaturesMagnesium Boards (MgO)Gypsum Boards
Surface PreparationSmooth surface; requires minimal preparation before plasteringRequires pre-treatment (priming or sealing) for best results
Bonding with PlasterStrong bond with plaster due to porous texture
Good bond, but less porous, may need adhesive.
Drying TimePlaster dries relatively quickly on MgO boardsStandard drying time
CrackingLess prone to cracking after plastering due to flexibilityMore prone to cracking, mainly if plaster is applied thickly
Moisture Resistance During PlasteringHighly resistant to moisture, ideal for wet or humid environmentsIt is vulnerable to moisture during and after plastering and can cause warping or deterioration.
Plaster Finish QualityProvides a smooth, durable finish with minimal effortIt offers a good finish but can be more susceptible to unevenness in humid conditions
Adhesion of Plaster LayersExcellent adhesion for multiple layers of plaster
Good adhesion, but thick layers may lead to cracks or peeling over time.
Durability of PlasterHighly durable, supports long-lasting plaster layersPlaster may need to be fixed and less durable in high-moisture or high-impact environments.
Ease of ApplicationEasy to apply plaster and less risk of surface damage during plasteringEasy to plaster but requires more care due to the fragility of the board
Post-Plastering Maintenance
Low maintenance, highly resistant to moisture and mold after plastering.Requires careful maintenance in moist conditions to avoid damage to the plaster

Want to compare the features and applications, too? This comparison guide has everything that you should know before making a decision. 

Sulfycor: One Stop-shop for Magnesium Boards 

Looking for high-quality and finely-finished Magnesium boards? Look no further. Sulfycor has been a trusted magnesium board manufacturer for the last eight years. We offer;

  • Various Magnesium boards include MgO boards, Magnesium Chloride, and Magnesium Sulphate boards.
  • ISO certified Magnesium boards
  • 24/7 service
  • Door-to-door service. 

Contact us through social media or phone numbers and get prime-quality boards. 

Wrap Up

That’s everything you need to know about whether you can plaster a Magnesium board. Magnesium boards are easy to plaster, giving them a fine finish. If finished correctly, these boards can be used inside your home to amp up your place. Moreover, you can use them outside to give a grand look to your place.  

Make sure your boards are well-cleaned and dry before you plaster them. Follow the instructions to prepare the plaster and apply it with smooth and even pressure for a flawless end product. 

To get high-quality Magnesium boards, reach out to Sulfycor now and discuss your requirements.