The difference between fiber cement board and MgO board

30 May The difference between fiber cement board and MgO board

When comparing fiber cement boards and MgO boards, they differ in materials, use, and price.

• Fiber cement boards are made from cement, fibers, and sand.

• They are strong but can crack if hit hard.

• MgO boards are made from magnesium oxide and natural materials.

• They are tougher and resist fire better than fiber cement boards.

• MgO boards don’t soak up water or grow mold.

• Fiber cement boards can absorb water over time.

• MgO boards are light and better for the environment but cost more.

• Fiber cement boards are heavier, less eco-friendly, and need special tools to install.

Key Takeaways

• Fiber cement boards are cheap and strong, good for most buildings.

• MgO boards resist fire and water, great for risky areas.

• MgO boards cost more at first but need less fixing later.

• Pick MgO boards for safe projects; they have no bad chemicals.

• Think about your project’s needs, like water or fire risks, to choose.

Composition of Fiber Cement Boards and MgO Boards

Fiber cement board composition

Fiber cement boards are made from cement, fibers, and sand. Portland cement mixed with water gives them strength. Fibers, both natural and man-made, make them flexible. Sand adds weight and helps them handle bad weather.

These boards don’t burn, handle weather well, and resist rust. They block noise and heat, so they’re great for walls and siding.

Magnesium oxide board composition

MgO boards are mostly made of magnesium oxide, a natural mineral. They also include perlite, wood powder, and fiberglass for strength. Magnesium oxide makes up most of the board, with oxygen filling the rest.

This mix makes MgO boards light, fireproof, and water-resistant. They don’t have harmful chemicals, so they’re better for the planet.

Impact of composition on performance

What these boards are made of changes how they work. Fiber cement boards are strong but can soak up water, causing cracks. MgO boards don’t absorb water or grow mold, so they’re good in wet places. MgO boards also handle fire and heat better. But fiber cement boards cost less and are easier to find, making them a good budget option.

Head-to-Head Comparison of Key Properties

Fire resistance

MgO boards are better at resisting fire than fiber cement boards. They have a Class A Fire Rating tested by ASTM E84 and EN 13501-1+A1:2010 standards. MgO boards can handle heat over 750°C (1,382°F) for 30 minutes without changing color. This makes them great for places with fire risks.

Fiber cement boards also resist fire but not as well as MgO boards. They can handle high heat but may not protect as much in extreme fires. If fire safety matters most, MgO boards are the best choice.

Moisture resistance

MgO boards are excellent at resisting water damage. They don’t grow mold, mildew, or rot, making them perfect for wet places like bathrooms or basements. Their materials stop water from soaking in, keeping them strong for years.

Fiber cement boards resist water but aren’t fully waterproof. If not sealed, they can absorb water over time, causing cracks or swelling. For damp areas, MgO boards are a safer pick.

Durability and strength

Both boards are strong, but they perform differently in certain conditions. MgO boards are tough and don’t weaken when wet. They work well indoors and outdoors.

Fiber cement boards are durable but can crack if hit hard or exposed to water for too long. They need regular care to last longer. If you want a low-maintenance material for harsh conditions, MgO boards are the better choice.

Looking at these features, you can see how each board works in different situations. Whether you need fire safety, water resistance, or strength, knowing these differences helps you pick the right board for your project.

Eco-friendliness

MgO boards are better for the environment than fiber cement boards. Making MgO boards uses less energy, lowering pollution and harm to nature. They can also be fully recycled, creating little waste. This makes them great for eco-friendly building projects. Fiber cement boards, however, are harder to recycle and often end up in landfills, which hurts the environment.

Fiber cement boards need materials like limestone and clay, which are mined. This mining uses up natural resources and damages the earth. MgO boards, on the other hand, use magnesite, a mineral that is mined with less harm to nature. Plus, making MgO boards traps carbon dioxide, making them even greener. Unlike fiber cement boards, MgO boards don’t have harmful chemicals like asbestos or formaldehyde, making them safer and better for the planet.

If you care about the environment, MgO boards are the smarter choice. They have a smaller carbon footprint, can be recycled, and are made in a way that’s kinder to nature.

Health and safety

For health and safety, MgO boards are the safer option. They are made from natural materials and don’t have harmful chemicals. This makes them safe to use indoors, especially where air quality matters. Fiber cement boards, however, have silica, which can be dangerous when cutting or sanding. Breathing in silica dust can cause serious lung problems over time.

Here’s a quick comparison of health and safety:

MgO boards are not only safer for health but also better at resisting fire and water. They are a strong and reliable choice for many uses. If health and safety are important to you, MgO boards are the best pick for your projects.

Applications of Fiber Cement Boards and MgO Boards

Uses of fiber cement boards

Fiber cement boards are useful for many building projects. They are often used for outside walls, roofs, and siding because they last long and handle bad weather. Inside, they work well for walls and ceilings, especially where fire safety is important.

Here are common uses for fiber cement boards:

• Schools: They are affordable and need little upkeep, perfect for schools.

• Hospitals: These boards are safe, strong, and look nice for medical spaces.

• Office buildings: They offer a durable and modern look for offices.

• Retail buildings: Their flexibility suits many designs while staying reliable.

• Theaters and concert halls: They improve sound and add style to cultural spaces.

Fiber cement boards are a good pick when you need something strong, affordable, and flexible for design.

Uses of MgO boards

MgO boards are great where fire safety, water resistance, and eco-friendliness matter most. They are used in homes and businesses, especially in places with fire risks or lots of moisture.

Here are common uses for MgO boards:

• Subway and utility tunnels: They meet fire safety rules and stop fires in tight spaces.

• Parking garages: MgO boards stop fires from spreading across levels.

• Residential projects: In California, they lower fire risks and keep homes insulated.

• Industrial facilities: In Texas, they make workplaces safer by reducing fire dangers.

• Cold climates: They stay strong in freezing weather, unlike gypsum boards.

MgO boards also resist termites, mold, and are safe for the planet, making them a smart choice for green building.

Choosing the right material for specific applications

To pick between fiber cement and MgO boards, think about your project’s needs. Fiber cement boards are good for siding, cladding, and low-cost projects. They are strong and flexible in design but need care in wet areas.

MgO boards are better for places with fire or water risks. They resist fire and water well and are eco-friendly, making them ideal for tunnels, garages, and green buildings.

Here’s a quick comparison to guide you:

By knowing what each board does best, you can choose the right one for your project.

Cost Comparison Between Fiber Cement Boards and MgO Boards

Material costs

MgO boards cost more to buy than fiber cement boards. They are pricier because they resist fire, water, and are eco-friendly. Fiber cement boards are cheaper upfront, making them a good choice for tight budgets.

MgO boards may seem expensive at first. But they last longer and save money over time. Fiber cement boards are cheaper to buy but need more care, which adds to costs later.

Installation costs

MgO boards are quicker and cheaper to install than fiber cement boards. They don’t need special anchors or backing, which lowers labor costs. They also skip corner beads and finish joints faster, cutting installation costs by up to 40%.

Fiber cement boards are heavier and need special tools to cut. This makes installation slower and more expensive. If you want to save time and money, MgO boards are a better option.

Maintenance costs

MgO boards need little upkeep because they resist fire, water, and mold. They stay strong in tough conditions, so repairs are rare.

Fiber cement boards can soak up water if not sealed well. This can cause cracks, swelling, or mold, needing regular care to keep them looking good. For less maintenance, MgO boards are the smarter choice.

Think about material, installation, and upkeep costs to choose the best board for your budget and project needs.

Benefits and Limitations of Fiber Cement Boards and MgO Boards

Advantages of fiber cement boards

Fiber cement boards have many benefits for building projects. They are strong and last a long time, even in bad weather. These boards work well outside because they resist water, stopping rust, mold, and algae.

Here are some key benefits:

• Moisture Resistance: They block water damage, great for rainy or humid places.

• No Shrinkage or Cracking: They stay stable in hot or cold weather.

• Long Lifespan: They can last up to 50 years, saving money.

• Termite-Proof: Termites can’t damage them, keeping buildings safe.

• Low Maintenance: They need little care and rarely need repairs.

• Improved Ventilation: They help air flow better, keeping rooms cooler.

• Easy Installation: Their size and weight make them simple to install.

• Water-Resistant: They protect against water, perfect for wet areas.

If you want a strong, low-care material, fiber cement boards are a great pick for homes or businesses.

Limitations of fiber cement boards

Fiber cement boards also have some downsides to think about. They can soak up water in very humid places. Over time, this might cause cracks or damage, weakening the structure.

Other drawbacks include:

• Upfront Cost: They cost more than vinyl or aluminum siding.

• Maintenance: You’ll need to clean and repaint them sometimes.

• Environmental Impact: They’re hard to recycle and create CO2 during production.

• Complex Installation: Their weight makes them harder to install, needing experts.

While fiber cement boards are strong, these issues might not suit every project. For humid areas or eco-friendly needs, other materials may work better.

Advantages of MgO boards

MgO boards are excellent where fire safety, water resistance, and eco-friendliness matter. They are tough and resist mold, mildew, and rot. Their light weight makes them easy to install and lowers labor costs.

Here’s why MgO boards are a top choice:

• Fire Resistance: They resist fire and extreme heat, great for fire-risk areas.

• Moisture Resistance: They don’t soak up water, stopping mold and mildew.

• Eco-Friendliness: Made from natural materials, they are fully recyclable.

• Health and Safety: They have no harmful chemicals, safe for indoor use.

• Durability: They stay strong in wet or freezing weather, unlike gypsum.

• Termite Resistance: Termites can’t harm them, adding to their lifespan.

• Ease of Installation: Their light weight makes them quick to install.

If fire safety, water resistance, and being eco-friendly are priorities, MgO boards are a smart choice for your project.

Limitations of MgO boards

MgO boards have many good features, but they also have some problems. These issues can affect how well they work, how long they last, and their overall cost.

One big problem is that MgO boards can absorb water in humid places. A study in 2017 showed that they can leak salty water when wet. This can cause mold to grow and damage nearby wood. The salty water can also rust metal parts, leading to serious problems. If the boards are made poorly, they may soak up even more water. Fixing these issues has cost construction projects over £300 million.

Another problem is that MgO boards can crack in damp conditions. Being wet for a long time can weaken them, making cracks more likely. Cracks make the boards look bad and less strong. If you use MgO boards in rainy or humid areas, you might need extra protection, which costs more.

The quality of MgO boards depends on the maker. Some companies don’t follow strict rules, so their boards may not last as long or resist water well. To avoid this, it’s important to buy from trusted suppliers.

Finally, MgO boards cost more at first, which can be hard for tight budgets. They save money later because they last longer and need less care, but the high starting price might not work for every project.

When choosing between fiber cement and MgO boards, think about your project. Fiber cement boards are strong and affordable, great for regular building needs. MgO boards resist fire and water, making them ideal for risky or green projects. Look at things like fire safety, water exposure, and upkeep. If you can spend more, MgO boards work better in tough conditions. For a cheaper option, fiber cement boards are dependable. Decide what matters most to pick the right material for your project.

FAQ

1. Can MgO boards be used in humid areas?

MgO boards handle water well but may have problems in humidity. Long exposure can cause cracks or salty water leaks. Use protective coatings or buy good-quality boards for damp places.

2. Are fiber cement boards safe for indoor use?

Fiber cement boards are safe indoors but release dust when cut. This dust can harm your lungs, so wear safety gear while working. Once installed, they are safe and don’t affect air quality.

3. Which board is better for eco-friendly projects?

MgO boards are greener. They use natural materials, need less energy to make, and can be recycled. Fiber cement boards are harder to recycle and create more pollution.

4. Do MgO boards cost more than fiber cement boards?

Yes, MgO boards cost more at first. But they last longer, need less care, and are quicker to install. Fiber cement boards are cheaper to buy but need more upkeep later.

5. How do I choose between MgO and fiber cement boards?

Think about your project needs. Pick MgO boards for fire safety, water resistance, and being eco-friendly. Fiber cement boards are better for cheaper projects and general use. Compare costs, durability, and environmental impact before deciding.