A Complete Guide to Magnesium Wall Board in 2025

16 Jul A Complete Guide to Magnesium Wall Board in 2025

Magnesium wall board is also called magnesium oxide board. It is a building material made from natural minerals. Builders use magnesium wall board for walls, ceilings, and floors. They choose it because it does not burn easily. It also does not grow mold or get damaged by water. In 2025, magnesium wall board is popular for being good for the environment. It is also very safe in fires. This helps builders follow new rules for buildings.

Many people want to know what magnesium wall board is. They ask how it is used in building. They also want to know why it is important for safety, cost, and the environment.

Key Takeaways

• Magnesium wall board is very strong and does not burn easily. It also does not grow mold. It is made from natural minerals. People use it for walls, ceilings, and floors.
• It keeps fire away better than regular drywall. It also keeps out water better. This makes it great for kitchens and bathrooms. It is also good for outside walls.
• MgO boards are good for the environment. They need less energy to make. They help stop pollution from buildings. This helps make building greener.
• You can install them easily with normal tools. The boards work with many finishes. You can paint or tile them if you prepare them right.
• Magnesium wall board costs more at first. But it lasts longer and needs fewer repairs. It also makes buildings safer and saves money over time.

Magnesium Wall Board Overview

What Is Magnesium Wall Board?

Magnesium wall board is also called magnesium oxide board or MgO board. It is a new material used in building. Factories make these panels by mixing magnesium oxide, magnesium chloride, and other things. They press the mix and heat it at high temperatures. This makes the boards strong and tough. Builders use magnesium boards for walls, ceilings, and floors in many buildings. These panels do not burn, get wet, grow mold, or attract bugs. They also help keep heat and sound inside.

MgO board is popular because it is good for the earth. Making it uses less energy than older materials. Some factories even trap carbon dioxide when making the boards. This helps the planet. Companies like EARCONS Acoustic Building System and Foreverboard California sell different kinds of magnesium boards. Some are light. Some have extra fire or mold protection. The market for MgO boards is growing in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and other places. Builders use these panels in homes, offices, and factories.

Note: MgO boards come in many shapes and sizes. Some are flat sheets, some are shaped, and some are molded. Sizes go from 4′ x 8′ to 4′ x 18′. This means they fit many building jobs.

Composition of MgO Board

MgO board has several main parts. The biggest part is magnesium oxide. This is where the board gets its name. Factories also add magnesium chloride or magnesium sulfate, silica, fiberglass mesh, and sometimes fly ash or perlite. These extras make the board stronger, more flexible, and better at staying dry. The recipe can change depending on who makes it and where.

Most magnesium boards use a binder called Sorel cement. This binder is made from magnesium oxide and other chemicals. Fiberglass mesh or gauze makes the board stronger and stops cracks. Some boards use magnesium sulfate instead of magnesium chloride. This helps with moisture problems. The ingredients change how the board works, especially in wet places.

MgO boards save energy, stop fires, and are good for the environment. Builders use them for wall panels, floors, roofs, and under tiles.

Magnesium Oxide Board vs. Drywall

MgO board and drywall are both used in building, but they are different. Drywall, or gypsum board, has a gypsum center and paper on the outside. MgO board uses magnesium oxide, fibers, and mesh. This makes them act differently.

MgO boards are better at stopping fire and water than drywall. They are also stronger and block sound better. These panels are good for places that need extra safety, like kitchens, bathrooms, and outside walls. Drywall is lighter and easier to put up with normal tools, but it does not last as long in tough places. MgO boards cost more at first, but they last longer and need less fixing.

Tip: Builders should use MgO board where fire safety, water resistance, or strength is needed. Drywall is fine for regular indoor walls and ceilings where these things are not as important.

Features of MgO Board

Image Source: pexels

Fire Resistance

MgO board is great at stopping fire. Builders like it because it does not burn fast. These panels can take heat up to 1200°C. This makes them good for walls that need fire safety. The table below shows how it compares to other boards:

MgO panels have important safety certificates. These are EN 13501-1 and ASTM E136. This means they are safe in fires. When heated, MgO board lets out water. This water helps slow down fire and smoke. The mix of minerals in the board makes it strong against fire. Builders use these boards in schools, hospitals, and homes. This helps keep people safe. MgO board gives peace of mind during emergencies.

Tip: Put magnesium boards in kitchens and stairs. Use them where fire safety is very important.

Mold Resistance

MgO board also stops mold from growing. Mold cannot eat MgO boards because they are not organic. The high alkalinity keeps mold and mildew away. Tests show MgO boards stay mold-free after getting wet and drying many times. Here are some facts:

• ASTM C272 tests show less than 10% water absorption.
• MgO boards do not get moldy in wet places.
• The boards do not let fungus grow because of their chemicals.
• High alkalinity keeps the surface safe from mold.

Builders use MgO board in bathrooms and basements. They also use it in other damp places. MgO board helps make buildings safer and healthier.

Durability

MgO boards are strong and last a long time. Over 1000 samples were tested in heat and humidity for two years. The tests show MgO boards stay strong even in tough weather. MOS boards, a type of MgO, resist water better than MOC boards. MOS boards also stop rust and fungus better.

• MOS boards stay dry even when it is very humid.
• MOC boards sometimes leak salty water, but MOS boards do not.
• MOS boards lose less strength than MOC boards in wet air.
• Good MgO boards can last at least 33 years in normal weather.

MgO boards use wood, perlite, and glass fiber mesh for extra strength. This makes them good for floors, roofs, and busy walls. MOS boards’ water resistance helps stop damage over time.

Environmental Impact

MgO board is good for the environment. Studies show MgO boards help lower building pollution. Some factories use local stuff and save energy when making them. This cuts down on waste and pollution. One study compared MgO panels to old building ways. It showed that using local materials and smart design makes MgO boards even greener.

MgO boards do not give off harmful chemicals. They are safe for people and can be recycled. Some new MgO paints help cool buildings and save energy. Builders who want green buildings pick MgO board for its eco-friendly features. The water resistance also means fewer repairs and less trash.

Note: Using magnesium boards helps the planet and keeps buildings safe for the future.

Applications

Interior Walls and Ceilings

MgO board is a popular pick for inside walls and ceilings. Builders use these panels in homes, schools, and hospitals. They like them because they stop fires and help keep air clean. Armstrong World Industries uses these panels in their Tectum® line. This shows that magnesium panels work in many types of buildings. The panels help block noise and stop mold. This makes them good for busy places. Tests show mgo panels can take a lot of heat. They also bend well and do not soak up much water. These panels last a long time. Some buildings in Denmark had trouble with moisture. New rules like PAS 670:2021 help fix these problems. More builders use mgo boards as they want safer and greener materials.

Exterior Uses

MgO board panels are used for many outside jobs. Builders put them on walls, siding, soffits, and trim. These panels keep buildings safe from fire, water, and bugs. The table below gives real examples of mgo board in outside projects:

Panels like MagPanel® are good for wall cladding, soffits, and fascias. They do not let mold or bugs in. Their strength helps in places with hurricanes. Builders pick mgo because it is good for the earth and lasts in tough weather.

Note: MgO board is not fully waterproof. It works best where the air is not too wet.

Subflooring and Roof Decking

MgO board panels are also used under floors and on roofs. These panels make floors and roofs strong and safe from fire. Builders often use thick mgo boards for subfloors to make them last. Panels like MagPanel® and EXACOR® have safety certificates. They do not let mold, bugs, or rot in. This makes them smart for wet places. MgO boards also block sound and fit with wood or metal frames. They are not the main part holding up the building. But they add extra support and safety. Using mgo boards in these ways helps buildings last longer and stay safe.

Tip: Use mgo panels under floors and on roofs in homes and businesses. This helps make buildings safer and stronger.

Installation and Maintenance

Installation Process

The installation process for mgo board is simple and efficient. Many builders work in pairs to speed up the job. One person measures and cuts the mgo board, while the other fastens it to the frame. Before starting, they store the boards indoors for at least 24 hours. This helps the boards adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity.

Here is a step-by-step guide for the installation process:

1. Measure and mark the layout with a pencil or chalk.
2. Leave a small gap (about 1/8 inch) between each mgo board for expansion.
3. Use a scoring knife for small cuts or a circular saw with dust control for larger cuts.
4. Place the boards on a flat, dry surface and check with a level.
5. Fasten the boards with corrosion-resistant screws, spaced 6 to 8 inches apart.
6. Pre-drill holes in tight or curved areas to prevent cracking.
7. Wear safety gear, such as a dust mask and safety glasses.

Many users praise the ease of installation. They find that mgo board can be cut, nailed, or screwed to wood or steel frames without special tools. The boards’ slight expansion also reduces the need for extra bracing.

Compatible Finishes

Mgo board works well with many finishes. Before applying any finish, builders use a primer made for concrete or masonry. This step is important because mgo board has an alkaline surface. Popular finishes include paint, stucco, synthetic stucco, wallpaper, plaster, and tile. Some paints form a strong, UV-resistant layer that lasts for years.

• Acrylic stucco topcoats and polymer-modified cement base coats are good choices.
• For joints, builders use sandable elastomeric compounds with fiberglass tape.
• Testing a small area with the chosen finish helps ensure proper bonding.

Proper surface preparation, such as cleaning and smoothing the board, is key for a lasting finish.

Maintenance Tips

Mgo board needs little maintenance. To keep it in good shape, store extra boards flat in a cool, dry place. Clean the surface with a damp cloth to remove dust. If the finish gets damaged, touch up with paint or patching compound. Check for gaps or cracks and fill them with non-shrink caulk. Regular checks help prevent moisture problems and keep the board strong.

Tip: Always follow local building codes and consult experts for special installation needs.

Pros and Cons

Advantages

Magnesium boards have many good points for new buildings. Reports say mgo board is great at stopping fire. It does not burn and can take heat up to 1200°C. This makes it a safe choice for buildings that need protection. The board soaks up heat in a fire, which slows the flames. Mgo board does not get ruined by water or mold. It keeps its shape even after getting wet. Builders like that it is light. This makes buildings weigh less and helps with easy setup. Magnesium board is also good for the earth. It has no bad chemicals and uses natural minerals and plant fibers. Making it uses less energy and does not pollute much. These things make mgo board a smart choice for green buildings.

Drawbacks

Magnesium boards do have some problems builders should know. They can get weaker if they stay wet for too long. This can make them less safe in a fire. It is very important to put them in the right way. If workers do not follow the maker’s steps, the board might not work well. Some mgo boards do not work well with some chemicals. This can hurt the board. The quality of magnesium boards is not always the same from every company. Only use boards that pass hard tests for building.

• Magnesium boards can get weak if too wet.
• Bad installation can make fire safety worse.
• Some chemicals can harm the board.
• Quality is not always the same from all makers.

Cost

Mgo board costs more than regular gypsum boards. This can make it hard to use if money is tight. The higher price is because it is strong, lasts long, and is good for the earth. Builders often save money later because mgo board needs fewer fixes and lasts longer. Its light weight means it goes up faster, so workers finish sooner. This can save on work costs. Sometimes, insurance is cheaper for buildings with mgo board because it is safer in fires. More people want safe and green buildings, so the market for magnesium boards keeps growing even though the price is higher.

• Mgo board costs more at first than gypsum board.
• The price is higher, but you save money later with less fixing.
• Faster setup and lower work costs help with the first cost.
• Insurance can be cheaper because of better fire safety.

Magnesium wall board does not burn or get moldy easily. Builders pick it for lots of building jobs. It stays strong for many years. It also helps make buildings better for the planet. In 2025, experts think it is a good choice for safe and new buildings. You can find more facts in product guides or by asking local sellers.

For more help, look at maker websites or talk to a building expert.

FAQ

What makes magnesium wall board different from regular drywall?

Magnesium wall board uses minerals like magnesium oxide and fiberglass mesh. Drywall uses gypsum and paper. Magnesium board resists fire, water, and mold better than drywall. Builders choose it for safety and durability.

Can you paint or tile over magnesium wall board?

Yes, builders can paint or tile over magnesium wall board. They should use a primer made for masonry before painting. For tile, they use thin-set mortar. This helps finishes stick well and last longer.

Is magnesium wall board safe for people with allergies?

Magnesium wall board does not contain harmful chemicals or allergens. It does not support mold growth. Many builders use it in schools and hospitals to help keep indoor air clean and safe.

How long does magnesium wall board last?

Proper installation and care help magnesium wall board last for decades. It stays strong in most building conditions.