18 Jun Top 3 Gypsum Board Substitutes You Should Know
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When building walls or doing construction, gypsum board is common. But, other materials can be stronger, greener, and cheaper. Three good choices are fiber cement board, plywood, and magnesium oxide board. Each has its own benefits. Magnesium oxide board is eco-friendly and very strong. Fiber cement board costs less and is tough. Plywood is cheap and can be used for many things. Pick the right material based on your budget, the environment, and how long it will last.
Fun fact! Gypsum board sales may grow from $31.7 billion in 2024 to $47.9 billion by 2033. This shows more people want drywall and its substitutes.
Key Takeaways
Fiber cement board is strong and resists water. It works well in wet areas. It lasts longer than drywall and is better for the environment.
Plywood is light and easy to shape. It works for many designs. It keeps heat in but does not resist water or fire as well as other materials.
Magnesium oxide board does not burn and is eco-friendly. It is safe for building. It lasts long but costs more and is harder to put up.
When picking wall materials, think about cost, strength, and the environment. Use Environmental Product Declarations to compare choices.
Pick materials that match your project. For light walls, plywood is great. For strong, warm walls, use fiber cement or magnesium oxide boards.
Fiber Cement Board as a Gypsum Board Alternative
What Is Fiber Cement Board
Fiber cement board is a strong material made from cement, sand, and fibers. It resists water, fire, and bugs, making it great for outside walls. Unlike drywall, it is tougher and lasts longer. People use it in homes and businesses because it can look like wood or stone.
Benefits of Fiber Cement Board for Sheathing
Fiber cement boards have many benefits for outside wall sheathing. They resist water, so they work well in wet or rainy places. Gypsum board can swell or shrink in such weather, but fiber cement does not. These boards are also fire-resistant, adding safety to buildings.
They are very durable. Fiber cement boards last longer than drywall, so you won’t need to replace them often. They are eco-friendly because they use recyclable materials. You can also choose different finishes to match your style.
The demand for fiber cement boards is growing. In 2023, their market value was $10.46 billion, with a yearly growth rate of 4.50%. Builders like them for their strength and cost-effectiveness in outside wall projects.
Drawbacks of Fiber Cement Board in Exterior Wall Sheathing
Fiber cement boards have some downsides too. Making them needs special tools and technology, which makes them more expensive than gypsum board. Their weight can make installation harder, especially for non-structural walls.
Sometimes, supply problems can make them cost more or delay projects. They may also have fewer design options compared to other materials. Strict building rules can make using them more complicated and costly.
Even with these issues, fiber cement boards are still a good choice. They are best for projects needing strength and good insulation.
Plywood for Exterior Wall Sheathing
What Is Plywood
Plywood is made by gluing thin wood layers together. The wood grains in each layer go in different directions. This makes plywood strong and stable. Builders use it for both structural and non-structural wall sheathing. It is lightweight but provides good support, making it a favorite choice.
Making plywood involves steps to ensure it lasts long. Manufacturers pick good-quality wood and remove flaws. Glue is applied carefully to hold the layers tightly. Machines press the layers with the right heat and pressure. Automated tools align the layers perfectly for extra strength.
Benefits of Plywood as a Sheathing Option
Plywood has many benefits for wall sheathing. It is durable and doesn’t warp or crack easily. This makes it great for walls in tough weather.
It is flexible for designs. You can cut it into different shapes and sizes. Plywood also insulates well, keeping indoor spaces comfortable. It is stronger than drywall and handles impacts better.
Plywood is eco-friendly too. Many companies use sustainable methods to make it. They reduce waste and improve quality, making plywood a greener choice than drywall.
Drawbacks of Plywood Compared to Gypsum Board
Plywood has some downsides compared to gypsum board. It costs more, especially for big projects. Water can damage it, causing swelling or peeling over time.
It doesn’t resist fire like gypsum board does. This makes it less safe for places needing fire protection. Plywood also doesn’t have the smooth finish of drywall, which may limit its use in stylish designs.
Think about your needs before choosing plywood or other materials. Plywood is best for strong walls and projects needing durability.
Magnesium Oxide Board for Sheathing
What Is Magnesium Oxide Board
Magnesium oxide board, or MgO board, is a strong building material. It is made from natural minerals like magnesium carbonate and brine with magnesium chloride. These boards come in standard sizes of 4 ft × 8 ft. Their thickness ranges from 6mm to 20mm. MgO boards are used for floors, walls, ceilings, roofs, and fascias. They are eco-friendly and non-toxic, making them a great drywall substitute. Builders like them for both indoor and outdoor projects.
Benefits of Magnesium Oxide Board as a Gypsum Board Substitute
Magnesium oxide board has many advantages over gypsum board. It is fire-resistant and rated A1, meaning it won’t burn. This makes it safer for construction. It is stronger than drywall and lasts longer. MgO boards resist water, mold, and termites, so they work well in wet or pest-heavy areas.
They also improve indoor air quality by releasing almost no harmful gases. About 40% of MgO boards are used in homes, showing their popularity. Builders like their flexibility since they can be used for many purposes. These include structural and non-structural wall sheathing.
Drawbacks of Magnesium Oxide Board in Sheathing Applications
Magnesium oxide board has some downsides too. It costs more than gypsum board, which can raise project expenses. Making it requires special materials and methods, which can cause supply issues. Its weight also makes it harder to install compared to lighter materials like drywall.
While MgO boards are durable and fireproof, they may not suit every project. They might not fit tight budgets or specific design needs. Think about your project’s requirements before choosing MgO boards. Other options, like fiber cement boards, might work better for some jobs.
Picking the right wall material is important for your project. Fiber cement boards are tough, resist water, and work in harsh places. Plywood is strong, flexible, and keeps spaces warm. Magnesium oxide boards are fireproof and good for the environment. These materials are great substitutes for gypsum board.
When choosing, think about cost, strength, and eco-friendliness. For example:
Compare prices, including costs after the material is no longer useful.
Check how materials affect the planet, like recycling and pollution.
Use Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for your area to compare options. Make sure certifications are verified by trusted organizations. Comparing materials based on their use helps you decide better.
Pick materials that match your project’s needs. For lightweight walls, choose cheaper options. For strong or insulated walls, try fiber cement or magnesium oxide boards. Planning carefully helps your project work well and stay eco-friendly.
FAQ
What is the best drywall alternative for wet climates?
Fiber cement boards are great for wet areas. They don’t absorb water and stay the same size. Their strength makes them perfect for outside walls in rainy places.
Can plywood be used for non-structural exterior wall sheathing?
Yes, plywood works for non-structural outside walls. It’s easy to shape and insulates well. But it doesn’t handle water or fire as well as other options.
Are magnesium oxide boards eco-friendly?
Yes, magnesium oxide boards are good for the environment. They’re made from natural materials and don’t release harmful gases. Their long life helps reduce waste, making them a green choice.
Which material offers the best insulation?
Fiber cement boards and plywood both insulate well. Fiber cement keeps temperatures steady, while plywood makes rooms cozy. Both help save energy in buildings.
How do I choose the right sheathing material?
Think about strength, cost, and eco-friendliness. For strong walls, pick fiber cement or magnesium oxide boards. For cheaper, lighter walls, plywood is a good choice.