What Makes Magnesium Wallboard Moisture Resistant?

03 Sep What Makes Magnesium Wallboard Moisture Resistant?

Magnesium wallboard is different because it does not soak up much water. You can put it in wet places like bathrooms. It will not swell or get mold. The board has a special mix of magnesium oxide and other minerals. This mix keeps out water and stops mildew from growing.

Magnesium wallboard stays strong even when it gets wet. Regular drywall does not do this.

Homeowners, builders, and workers trust this material. They know it lasts long and keeps out water.

Key Takeaways

• Magnesium wallboard does not let in water or mold as much as drywall, plywood, or cement boards. This makes it good for wet places like bathrooms and basements. Its special mix uses magnesium oxide and minerals. This keeps the board strong and flat. It does not swell or crack, even after being wet for a long time. You need to install it the right way. Use rust-resistant fasteners, sealed joints, and raised panels. This stops water damage and helps the board last longer. Magnesium wallboard also stops fire, mold, and noise. It gives a safer and stronger choice for wet and humid rooms. Even though it resists water well, it should not stay soaked or be used outside for a long time. This helps it work better and last longer.

Magnesium Wallboard Properties

Inorganic Composition

Magnesium wallboard is a strong material that does not let water in. The inside has magnesium oxide, magnesium sulfate, and fibers like fiberglass mesh. Magnesium oxide helps stop fire and water from getting in. Its crystal shape keeps water out. Magnesium sulfate makes the board even better at stopping water and mold. Fillers like perlite or wood chips make the board strong and light.

Magnesium boards are different from gypsum and cement boards. Gypsum boards have calcium sulfate dihydrate and paper. These soak up water and get bigger. Cement boards do not soak up water but are heavy and hard to use. Magnesium oxide boards use magnesium sulfate binders. These do not pull in water. So, the panels stay dry and flat. The inorganic parts of mgo boards mean mold and mildew cannot grow. There is nothing for them to eat.

Tip: Mgo boards last a long time and need fewer fixes. They are good for wet places.

Water Absorption Resistance

The best thing about magnesium boards is water resistance. You can use mgo boards in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. They do not soak up water. Tests show magnesium wallboard only takes in about 0.34% water. Gypsum boards take in about 3%. This makes them swell and break. Mgo board panels stay strong and do not change shape, even when wet for a long time.

Here is a quick comparison:

You can see magnesium oxide board panels work better than others. Their water resistance makes them great for damp places. You do not have to worry about swelling, cracks, or weak walls. This means your walls stay safe and dry for a long time.

Mold and Mildew Prevention

Mgo boards are very good at stopping mold and mildew. The inorganic parts of magnesium boards do not let mold or mildew grow. Magnesium sulfate in the board makes it very alkaline. This keeps mold and mildew away. Tests show mgo board panels stay strong and do not get mold, even after years in wet places.

Here is a table showing how different panels perform:

You can trust magnesium wallboard panels to keep your home safe. Mgo boards do not swell or crack. They stop mold and mildew. The sulfate-based MagPanel type protects even better against rust and sweating than chloride-based mgo boards. If you want panels that stay strong and clean in wet places, magnesium oxide boards are the best pick.

Note: Mgo boards are better than other panels. You get water resistance, mold resistance, mildew resistance, and fire resistance all in one.

Magnesium Oxide Boards in Wet Areas

Dimensional Stability

You want your walls and floors to stay flat and strong, even in wet places. Mgo boards give you this peace of mind. These panels use high-density cement and fiberglass mesh. This mix keeps the boards from swelling, warping, or bending when they get wet. Unlike wood or gypsum, mgo boards do not delaminate or lose their shape.

• Mgo boards keep their size and strength through many wetting and drying cycles.

• You can leave them exposed during construction for up to 180 days without water damage.

• They do not crack or lose flexural strength, even after 25 cycles of getting wet and drying out.

• Mgo boards work well in freeze-thaw conditions, so you can use them in cold or humid places.

If you use magnesium boards in bathrooms, kitchens, or basements, you will see that they stay flat and strong. You do not have to worry about swelling or warping. For outside use, you need a water-resistive barrier to protect the panels and keep your warranty. The panels themselves resist water damage better than most other materials.

Tip: Mgo boards keep your walls and floors safe from water damage and help your building last longer.

Common Applications

You can use mgo boards in many wet areas at home or work. These panels work well behind tiles or wall panels in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and locker rooms. They stop mold and mildew from growing and keep their shape in humid places.

• Mgo boards make a strong base for tile or wood floors in wet rooms.

• You can use them as subflooring in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.

• Their fire resistance and water resistance make them a top pick for hotels, hospitals, and locker rooms.

• Mgo boards also work for walls, floors, and fireproofing in wet spaces.

• They help control moisture, resist fire, and block sound, so you get a safer and quieter room.

In real homes, people use magnesium oxide boards for wall panels and countertops in kitchens. These boards handle water and daily use without breaking down. In basements, mgo boards on walls and ceilings help reduce dampness and improve living conditions. Some builders use mgo boards outside for decks and water features. Regular cleaning and checks help these panels keep their water resistance and superior durability.

A builder in New Jersey used mgo board in his bathroom remodel. He picked it for its strength, water resistance, and mold prevention. The bathroom stayed crack-free and dry, even with lots of moisture and movement.

Note: Mgo boards give you a safe, dry, and long-lasting solution for any wet area.

Limitations

Mgo boards offer strong water resistance, but you need to know their limits. These panels are not fully waterproof. If you leave them in water for a long time, they can absorb moisture from the air. This can cause the boards to expand, crack, or lose some thermal properties.

In some cases, mgo boards with high chloride content have caused problems. In Denmark, boards absorbed moisture and leaked salty water. This led to corrosion of metal parts and damage to wood. Some buildings had to replace the panels because of water damage and corrosion. Boards made with magnesium sulfate do not have this problem and offer better protection.

You should always use the right fasteners, like stainless steel or brass, to avoid corrosion. For outdoor use, cover or coat the panels to keep them safe from rain and wind. Proper installation and regular checks help prevent water damage and keep your mgo boards working well.

Alert: Mgo boards resist water, but you must protect them from long-term soaking and use the right installation methods to avoid problems.

Installing Magnesium Wall Boards

Sealing and Joints

You need to keep water out of your walls. First, make sure the area is clean and dry. Use sealants that work with magnesium oxide boards. Put sealant on all seams and joints. This blocks water and keeps the wall strong. Leave small gaps between panels, about 1/6″ to 1/8″. These gaps let panels move and stop cracks. Use flexible joint compounds and elastic caulking to seal joints. You can add fiberglass tape in finishing compounds for more protection. Good airflow and ventilation lower humidity and stop mold.

Tip: Always keep panels raised above the ground. This stops them from touching water.

Fasteners and Corrosion

Pick the right fasteners to keep panels tight and rust-free. Use screws that resist rust, like stainless steel or ceramic-coated ones. Put screws at least 15 mm from the panel edge to stop cracks. These fasteners keep panels safe from rust in wet places. Makers say to use 316 stainless steel or coated screws for best results. This keeps your panels strong and lasting a long time.

Extra Protection

You can protect panels more by doing a few extra things. Let panels sit in your room for a few days before installing. This helps stop cracks. Lift the bottom edge of each panel at least 10 mm above the floor. Put waterproof membranes with seam reinforcement at corners and joints. Use paints or coatings that resist moisture to cover the surface. In rooms with lots of humidity, use vapor barriers and dehumidifiers. Always follow what the maker says for installation. These steps help panels stay strong and keep out water for years.

Note: Good installation and extra care keep panels safe from water and mold.

Comparing Moisture Resistance

Magnesium Wallboard vs. Drywall

If you look at mgo boards and drywall, you will see big changes in how they deal with water. Mgo boards take in much less water than drywall. This helps your walls stay strong and not break or swell. Drywall, even the kind made for wet places, can soak up water and grow mold if it gets wet for a long time. You might see drywall get soft or fall apart in bathrooms or basements. Mgo boards keep their shape and strength in these rooms.

Here is a quick look at how they compare:

Tip: Mgo boards cost more at first, but you save money later because they last longer and need fewer fixes.

MGO Boards vs. Cement Board

You may wonder if cement board is better than mgo boards for wet places. Both types fight water, but mgo boards have some clear wins. Mgo boards do not swell, bend, or rot, even in lots of water or humidity. Cement boards need extra sealing and waterproofing. If you skip this, cement boards can soak up water and grow mold. Mgo boards are lighter and easier to put in place. You can cut them with simple tools, but cement boards are heavy and need special tools.

• Mgo boards may cost more at first, but you save on work and repairs.

• You can finish jobs faster with mgo boards because they are easier to use.

MGO Boards vs. Plywood

Plywood is used in many homes, but it does not fight water as well as mgo boards. When plywood gets wet, it can swell, bend, or even break apart over time. Mgo boards stay flat and strong, even in wet basements or bathrooms. You do not need to worry about mold or mildew with mgo boards, but plywood can grow mold if it stays wet.

Note: You can trust mgo boards to last longer and need less work in wet places.

Magnesium wallboard keeps out water because of its special chemical mix and how it is made. This board is strong, stops mold, and is safer in wet rooms. Not all brands are the same, so pick good ones and install them the right way:

• Pick fasteners that do not rust.

• Seal every joint and edge.

• Make sure panels do not touch the floor.

Doing these things helps your walls work best in bathrooms, basements, and other wet places.

FAQ

Can you use magnesium wallboard in showers or wet rooms?

You can use magnesium wallboard in showers and wet rooms. The board resists moisture and mold. Always seal joints and edges. Use waterproof coatings for extra protection. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.

Does magnesium wallboard need special tools for cutting?

You do not need special tools. You can cut magnesium wallboard with a standard utility knife or saw. Wear a mask to avoid dust. Clean up scraps after cutting.

How do you keep magnesium wallboard from rusting around fasteners?

Pick stainless steel or ceramic-coated screws. Place screws at least 15 mm from the edge. This stops rust and keeps panels strong. Avoid regular steel fasteners in wet areas.

Is magnesium wallboard safe for indoor air quality?

Magnesium wallboard does not release harmful chemicals. The board is free from formaldehyde and asbestos. You get a safer indoor environment. Many builders choose it for healthy homes.

What maintenance does magnesium wallboard need in wet areas?

Check panels for damage once a year. Clean surfaces with a damp cloth. Reseal joints if you see gaps. Use a dehumidifier in very humid rooms. Proper care helps panels last longer.