
08 Jun MgO Board Advantages And Disadvantages
Table of Contents
If you need a strong and safe building material, magnesium oxide (MgO) boards might interest you due to their numerous mgo board advantages. These boards are tough and resist fire, water, and bugs. They are also eco-friendly and safe for homes and businesses.
But, like all materials, they have downsides. They can cost more at first and may not be easy to find everywhere. Reports show they last long and save money over time:
Tests show MgO boards stay strong for many years.
Studies show they are becoming more popular in the market.
Price checks help compare them with other building materials.
With their mgo board advantages, MgO boards have great benefits but might not work for every project.
Key Takeaways
MgO boards are tough and strong, great for lasting buildings. They resist water, mold, and bugs.
These boards are fireproof, helping slow fires and not releasing toxic gases.
MgO boards are good for the environment. They are made from natural stuff and can be reused, which helps the planet.
You need to seal them well to stop water damage. Handle them carefully and use the right tools for the best results.
MgO boards cost more at first, but they save money later by needing fewer repairs and less upkeep.
Mgo board advantages
Durability and Strength
Magnesium boards are very strong and last a long time. They are a good choice for homes and buildings. Unlike wood or gypsum boards, MgO boards stay tough in harsh conditions. They resist damage, keeping walls and ceilings sturdy for years.
Their strength comes from how they are made. MgO boards use magnesia cement mixed with glass-fiber mesh. This makes them stiff and stops damage from mold or rot. Studies show MgO boards last longer than many other materials.
Here’s why MgO boards are special:
Feature | Benefit |
---|---|
Strong and stiff | Handles heavy weight and stress easily. |
Resists biological damage | Stops harm from mold and mildew. |
Eco-friendly | A green choice that lasts a long time. |
If you want a tough and eco-friendly material, MgO boards are great. They save money by needing less upkeep over time.
Fire Resistance
Fire safety is very important for buildings. MgO boards are great at stopping fire. Tests show they keep the other side cooler than regular drywall. This slows fire spread, giving more time to escape.
MgO boards pass strict fire tests like ASTM E119, E136, and E84. These tests prove they resist fire for 1 to 4 hours. They don’t burn or release harmful gases in heat.
Here’s what their fire tests show:
Standard | Description | Fire Resistance Implication |
---|---|---|
ASTM E119 | Measures how long materials resist fire. | Rates fire resistance from 1 to 4 hours. |
ASTM E136 | Checks if materials burn at high heat. | Confirms they are noncombustible. |
ASTM E84 | Tests flame spread and smoke levels. | Gives Class A, B, or C ratings. |
MgO boards are safe for homes and businesses. They protect people and property from fire damage.
Water and Mold Resistance
Water damage and mold can be expensive to fix. MgO boards help avoid these problems. They are waterproof and resist moisture, making them perfect for damp places like bathrooms.
Unlike other materials, MgO boards don’t need extra coatings to stay strong. They stay dry and resist mold, even in wet conditions. Good MgO boards keep moisture below 12%, staying durable and mold-free.
Here’s how they perform:
A city in Florida plans to use MgO boards for their water resistance and other benefits like being bug-proof.
MgO boards work better than gypsum boards in wet areas, lasting longer and staying strong.
Choosing MgO boards means fewer repairs and a cleaner space. They are a smart, eco-friendly way to keep rooms dry and free of mold.
Eco-Friendliness
If you want an eco-friendly material, magnesium oxide boards are great. They are made from natural things like magnesium and oxygen. This means they cause less pollution than fiber cement or gypsum boards. They also don’t release bad chemicals, making them safer for you and the Earth.
MgO boards can be recycled, which helps the environment. When you’re done using them, they can be reused instead of being thrown away. This makes them a smart choice for people who want to cut down on waste.
Another benefit is energy savings. MgO boards help keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer. This lowers your energy bills and reduces your home’s impact on the planet.
Tip: For green building projects, use MgO boards. They are eco-friendly and have lasting benefits.
Safety and Non-Toxic Properties
Safety matters when picking building materials, and magnesium boards are very safe. Unlike some materials, MgO boards don’t have harmful stuff like asbestos or formaldehyde. This makes them better for families, especially with kids or pets.
They are also fireproof, adding extra safety to your home. If there’s a fire, MgO boards won’t give off toxic smoke. This makes them a good choice for wildfire-prone areas or places with strict fire rules.
MgO boards are hypoallergenic, meaning they don’t cause allergies. They resist mold and moisture, which can lead to health problems. If you have allergies, these boards can help make your home healthier.
Note: Choosing MgO boards means more than durability. It’s about having a safe, non-toxic home for your family.
Pest Resistance
Pests like termites and mold can damage homes, but magnesium oxide boards stop them. Their materials don’t attract pests, making them great for areas with pest problems.
Here’s how MgO boards fight pests:
Evidence Description | Details |
---|---|
Mold Resistance | Mold doesn’t grow on MgO boards because of their materials. |
Moisture Absorption | Absorbs only 0.34% water, unlike 3% for gypsum boards. |
Fungal Resistance Test | Scored 0/0/0 on ASTM G21 test, proving no mold growth. |
Structural Integrity | Stays strong in wet places without bending or swelling. |
Application in Healthcare | Hospitals use them to protect patients from mold issues. |
MgO boards are waterproof and stay strong in wet areas. They work well in bathrooms, kitchens, and coastal homes where moisture is common.
If pests are a problem, MgO boards are a great solution. They save money and time by reducing repairs and keeping your home safe.
Lightweight and Easy Installation
In construction, easy-to-use materials are important. Magnesium boards are great because they’re light. They weigh less than fiber cement or gypsum boards. This makes them simple to carry, cut, and install. If heavy materials are hard for you, these boards make work easier.
Even though they’re light, they’re still strong. You can move them easily, but they won’t break. This mix of strength and lightness is perfect for DIY projects or professional jobs. You’ll save time and energy without losing quality.
Here’s why magnesium boards are a good choice:
Easy to Carry: Move them without needing extra help.
Simple to Cut: Basic tools can shape them for your project.
Lower Labor Costs: Quick installation saves money on workers.
Tip: Use magnesium boards for fast projects. They save time and stay strong.
They also work with many building methods. Use them for walls, floors, or ceilings. Their water resistance makes them great for wet places like bathrooms. They won’t swell or warp from moisture.
Unlike heavier boards, magnesium boards are easier to handle. They reduce strain during long jobs. Their light weight also cuts transport costs, saving money on big projects.
Maintenance is simple too. They resist water and pests, so repairs are rare. Their toughness keeps them in good shape for years. This means less stress for you later.
If you want easy installation and lasting strength, choose magnesium boards. They make work simpler and give great results.
Disadvantages of magnesium oxide boards

Higher Initial Cost
Magnesium boards cost more than drywall or fiber cement boards. This higher price can be tough for tight budgets. They save money later because they last long and need less fixing. But the upfront cost might seem too high for some projects.
For small DIY jobs, MgO boards might not fit your budget. If you’re building something big, the extra cost adds up fast. You’ll need to decide if the long-term savings are worth the higher starting price.
Tip: Think about future savings on repairs and upkeep. The durability of MgO boards often makes up for their higher initial cost.
Limited Availability in Some Regions
MgO boards aren’t easy to find everywhere. In some places, they might not be sold nearby. This can slow your project and make it cost more.
If MgO boards aren’t available locally, you may need to order them from far away. Shipping costs and waiting for delivery can be frustrating. Local stores might not carry them, so you’ll need to look for special suppliers.
Note: Check if MgO boards are sold in your area before starting your project. Planning ahead can save time and money.
Installation Challenges
Installing MgO boards takes extra care. They’re light and easy to move, but sealing them properly is very important. If edges aren’t sealed, water can get in and cause damage over time.
Experts say to use moisture-resistant MgO boards and seal all edges carefully. This helps keep water out, especially in wet places like bathrooms. Without proper sealing, the boards might need repairs sooner.
Here are some common installation problems:
Sealing Edges: Water damage happens if edges aren’t sealed well.
Cutting: Boards need exact cuts to fit tightly.
Compatibility: Some adhesives or fasteners might not work with MgO boards.
A school used MgO boards to fix old buildings. The boards helped stop mold problems, but sealing them took extra effort. This shows why following expert advice during installation is important.
If you’re new to building, MgO boards might be harder to install than drywall. Hiring experts can help, but it costs more money.
Tip: Take your time when installing MgO boards. Careful sealing and handling will make them last longer and work better.
Potential for Quality Variations
Not all magnesium boards are the same. Their quality depends on the maker. Some boards are very strong, but others might not last as long or resist water well.
For instance, Foreverboard in New York makes good magnesium boards. But even their boards can have problems if not made right. Some boards may leak salts, which can rust fasteners. This weakens the structure and might cause health risks.
Things to watch for:
Some paint brands won’t guarantee their products on MgO boards. This raises concerns about how well the boards work with paints.
Premier, another company, uses outside testing to check their boards. This shows how important it is to pick tested products.
If you want to use magnesium oxide boards, research the brand first. Look for certifications to avoid future problems.
Tip: Check reviews or test reports before buying MgO boards. A trusted brand can save you money and trouble later.
Compatibility with Other Materials
Magnesium boards don’t always work well with other materials. While useful, they may not bond with some adhesives, paints, or fasteners. This can make installation harder and cost more.
For example, some adhesives won’t stick to MgO boards if the surface isn’t prepared. Certain paints might peel or crack over time. Because of this, some paint companies won’t guarantee their products on these boards.
Fasteners can also rust if the board leaks salts. This is a big problem in wet or humid places.
Here’s how to handle these issues:
Pick the Right Materials: Use adhesives, paints, and fasteners made for MgO boards.
Seal Edges Well: Sealing edges stops water from causing damage.
Ask Experts: If unsure, talk to someone who knows about magnesium boards.
Even with these challenges, magnesium boards are still popular. They’re strong and resist pests, fire, and water. With good planning and materials, you can fix these issues and enjoy their benefits.
Note: Compatibility problems can be tricky but solvable. Learn about your materials to avoid delays or extra costs.
MgO boards have many great features. They are strong, fireproof, and waterproof, making them a good choice for building. They are made in a way that helps the environment. Also, they are safe to use indoors because they don’t release bad chemicals. If you want something easy to take care of, MgO boards are a smart pick.
However, like all materials, they have good and bad sides. They are safe and healthy, but they cost more and can be tricky to install. You might need experts to put them in correctly, which can raise costs.
Think about what your project needs and how much you can spend. If you care about the environment and saving money over time, MgO boards might be just right for you.
FAQ
What are MgO boards made of?
MgO boards are made using magnesium oxide, magnesium chloride, and natural materials. Fiberglass mesh is added to make them strong, long-lasting, and eco-friendly.
Can you paint MgO boards?
Yes, you can paint MgO boards, but use the right paint. Choose paints made for MgO boards or ask the maker for advice. This ensures the paint sticks well and lasts longer.
Are MgO boards safe for indoor use?
Yes! MgO boards are safe and don’t have harmful chemicals. They are free from asbestos and formaldehyde. They also don’t release bad gases, making them great for homes, schools, and hospitals.
How do MgO boards compare to drywall?
MgO boards are tougher and last longer than drywall. They resist fire, water, and pests better. But they cost more and need careful installation. For durability, MgO boards are a smarter pick.
Do MgO boards work in wet areas?
Yes, MgO boards are water-resistant and perfect for wet spaces. They don’t bend, swell, or grow mold when wet. This makes them great for bathrooms and kitchens.
Tip: Seal the edges well to improve water resistance in damp areas.