04 May MgO Cement Boards vs Fiber Cement Boards Which is Right for You
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Choosing the right building material is crucial. Among the popular options are MgO cement boards and fiber cement boards, each offering unique advantages. The demand for cement boards, including mgo cement board, is increasing globally. The market is projected to grow from $11.25 billion in 2023 to $18.47 billion by 2032, highlighting the need for durable materials in residential and commercial construction. MgO cement boards, in particular, are gaining significant traction, with their market expected to double and reach $4.3 billion by 2032. These figures underscore the growing preference for mgo cement board and similar materials. Ultimately, your choice should align with the specific requirements of your project.
Key Takeaways
MgO boards resist fire and water, great for kitchens and bathrooms.
Fiber cement boards are tough and long-lasting, good for siding and roofs.
Fiber cement may need more care over time than MgO boards.
MgO boards are better for the environment, using natural materials and less waste.
MgO boards are lighter and easier to install than fiber cement boards.
Fiber cement boards need special tools and take more work to install.
Think about your project’s needs like cost, weather, and safety to decide.
Overview of MgO Cement Boards and Fiber Cement Boards
What Is an MgO Cement Board?
Magnesium Oxide (MgO) cement boards are strong and lightweight materials. They are made using magnesium oxide, magnesium chloride, and other ingredients. These boards resist fire, water, and damage very well. Their special design works great in places where other materials might not last. MgO boards can be used for walls, ceilings, and floors. They are especially good in areas with high humidity or fire risks.
Here’s a simple comparison of MgO sulfate boards and fiber cement boards:
Property | MgO Sulfate Board | Fiber Cement Board |
|---|---|---|
Flexural Strength | 11 Mpa | N/A |
Impact Strength | 20.3 KJ/m2 | N/A |
Apparent Density | 1049 kg/m3 | N/A |
Moisture Content | 9% | N/A |
Thermal Conductivity | 0.206 W/(m*k) | N/A |
Combustion Property | A1 Grade | N/A |
Weight | Low | High |
Fire Resistant | Excellent | Good |
Water Resistant | Excellent | Good |
Mould/Insect Resistant | Excellent | Good |
Flexibility | Excellent | Poor |
Fasten Strength | Excellent | Poor |
Environmental | Good | Asbestos Risk |
What Are Fiber Cement Boards?
Fiber cement boards are made from cement, sand, and fibers. These boards are tough and can handle rough conditions. They resist water, so they don’t swell or warp in wet areas. They also don’t burn, making them safe for fire-prone spaces. Fiber cement boards can last over 25 years, making them a dependable choice for homes and buildings.
Main features of fiber cement boards include:
They don’t burn, meeting fire safety rules.
They are strong and last more than 20 years.
Common Applications of MgO Boards and Fiber Cement Boards
Both MgO and fiber cement boards have many uses. MgO boards are great for places needing fire and water protection. These include kitchens, bathrooms, and outside walls. They are light, so they are easy to install.
Fiber cement boards work well for siding, roofs, and floors. They are strong and handle bad weather, making them good for outdoor use. You can also use them inside where water resistance is needed.
Head-to-Head Comparison of Key Features
Durability and Strength
Both MgO cement boards and fiber cement boards are strong. However, they have different strengths. MgO boards are light but very tough. They don’t crack easily and can hold heavy loads. This makes them great for places needing flexibility and impact resistance. For instance, MgPanel® is stronger than gypsum drywall in handling impacts.
Fiber cement boards are heavier and less bendable. They are durable but may crack under too much pressure. Still, they are built to handle bad weather, making them good for outdoor use. Both materials are durable, but MgO boards are lighter and more flexible.
Fire Resistance
Fire safety is important, especially in fire-risk areas. MgO cement boards are excellent at resisting fire. They don’t burn and meet strict fire safety rules like A1 under EN 13501-1 and ASTM E136. These boards don’t spread fire and stay strong in extreme heat.
Fiber cement boards also resist fire well. They can handle high heat without burning or releasing harmful fumes. But, they might need extra treatments to match the fire resistance of MgO boards. If fire safety is your top concern, MgO boards are the better choice.
Material Type | Fire Resistance Rating/Certification | Notes |
|---|---|---|
MgO Boards | Do not spread fire. | |
ASTM E136 | Handles extreme heat without burning through. | |
BS 476 Part 4 | Extra fire safety certification. | |
Fiber Cement Boards | Excellent fire-resistant properties | Can handle heat but may need extra treatment. |
Moisture and Mold Resistance
Moisture resistance is key for wet or humid spaces. MgO boards are great at staying stable in wet conditions. They also stop mold from growing. This makes them perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, and other damp areas.
Fiber cement boards resist water well too. They don’t swell or bend when wet. But, they need sealing to avoid long-term damage. While both materials work well, MgO boards are better at resisting moisture without extra work. This makes them easier to use in wet places.
Tip: Use MgO boards in wet areas for better mold and water resistance.
Eco-Friendliness and Sustainability
MgO cement boards are better for the environment. They use natural, safe materials, which lowers their impact on nature. Making MgO boards uses less energy and creates little waste. These boards can also absorb carbon dioxide, helping the planet over time.
Fiber cement boards are strong but harm the environment more. Making cement, a key part of these boards, releases a lot of CO2. Producing fiber cement boards uses more energy and creates more waste than MgO boards. If you care about the environment, MgO boards are the greener choice.
Ease of Installation
Installing MgO cement boards is quick and easy. They are light, so you can carry and install them easily. You can cut and shape them without much effort. They are also strong and won’t crack when fastened.
Fiber cement boards are heavier and harder to work with. You need special tools to cut them, which takes more time. Installing them is more work because they are less flexible. While both are useful, MgO boards make installation faster and simpler.
Cost Comparison
Price is important when picking materials. MgO cement boards cost more at first. But they last longer and resist fire and water well. This can save money on repairs later, making them worth the price.
Fiber cement boards are cheaper to buy. They are strong and work well for smaller budgets. But you might need to spend more on extra treatments for fire or water protection. While MgO boards cost more upfront, their long-term benefits can save you money.
When to Choose MgO Cement Boards
Best Uses for MgO Boards
MgO cement boards are great for fire-safe and strong projects. They are perfect for apartments or condos needing fire safety. For example, EXACOR™ MgO panels scored zero on the Flame Spread Index (FSI). This means they don’t spread fire, making them safe for big buildings like Type III Construction. If your project is in a fire-risk area, MgO boards are the safest choice.
These boards also work well in wet places like bathrooms and kitchens. They resist water and mold, lasting longer in damp spaces. MgO boards are light and simple to install. You can use them for walls, ceilings, and floors. Whether it’s a home or business project, MgO boards are reliable and flexible.
Eco-Friendly and Cost Factors for MgO Boards
MgO boards are better for the planet. They use natural materials and need less energy to make. This makes them a greener choice for builders who care about the environment. Over time, they can even absorb carbon dioxide, helping the Earth.
But, making MgO boards costs more because of the materials and process. If your budget is small, this might be a problem. Even though they cost more at first, they save money later by needing fewer repairs. If you want eco-friendly and long-lasting materials, MgO boards are worth it.
When to Choose Fiber Cement Boards
Best Uses for Fiber Cement Boards
Fiber cement boards are strong and resist water well. They work great for siding, roofs, and tile backers. These boards handle bad weather, so they’re perfect for outdoor use. They stay solid in wet places like bathrooms and kitchens.
Fiber cement boards are growing popular for being eco-friendly and durable. They are better than some other materials and meet stricter rules on asbestos. Common uses include siding, roofing, and tile backers. Their strength and water resistance make them a top choice. In Asia-Pacific, urban growth and more building projects are boosting demand.
If your project is in a city or faces tough weather, fiber cement boards are a smart pick. They last long and resist fire and bugs, making them great for homes and businesses. You can also use them in many design styles.
Environmental and Cost Factors for Fiber Cement Boards
Fiber cement boards balance cost and durability. They cost more than some materials, but they last longer. Some brands even offer warranties up to 50 years. Their natural resistance to bugs and water lowers upkeep costs.
Pros:
Long-lasting (warranties up to 50 years)
Resists bugs and water naturally
Safe from heat and flames
Cons:
Costs more than other siding options
Heavy and harder to install
Needs repainting every 10-15 years, adding to costs
Though you’ll need to repaint them every decade, they’re still a good value. Their strength and ability to handle weather make them worth the price. If you can spend more upfront and want materials that last, fiber cement boards are a good choice. They also support eco-friendly building, which is great for green projects.
When choosing between MgO cement boards and fiber cement boards, think about your project’s needs. Both materials have their own strengths. MgO boards are great for fire safety, water resistance, and being eco-friendly. They work best in wet or fire-risk areas. Fiber cement boards are strong, flexible, and budget-friendly, especially in mild weather.
Important things to think about:
Do you need fire and water protection?
What is the weather like?
How much can you spend, and how long should it last?
Pick the material that fits your project’s needs the best.
FAQ
What makes MgO cement boards different from fiber cement boards?
MgO boards are better at resisting fire and water. They are also more eco-friendly. Fiber cement boards are heavier, strong, and cost less. Pick based on your project’s needs like safety, budget, or environment.
Can MgO cement boards be used outside?
Yes, MgO boards are great for outdoor use. They resist water, mold, and fire. This makes them perfect for outside walls and other outdoor projects. They are also light, so they’re easy to install.
Are fiber cement boards good for the environment?
Fiber cement boards are not as eco-friendly as MgO boards. Making them uses more energy and releases CO2. But they are strong and don’t contain asbestos, making them safer than older materials.
Which board is simpler to install?
MgO boards are easier to install because they are light and flexible. You can cut them with simple tools. Fiber cement boards are heavy and need special tools, which makes them harder to install.
How do I pick the right board for my project?
Think about what your project needs. Use MgO boards for fire safety, wet areas, or eco-friendly goals. Choose fiber cement boards for outdoor strength and lower costs. Look at weather, price, and how long it will last to decide.
Tip: Talk to an expert to make sure the material fits your project.