27 Jan What Makes MgO Boards Superior Over Other Building Materials
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Have you been looking for a building material that checks all the boxes of strength, resistance, and sustainability? Finding a sustainable construction material is a tedious task.
Fortunately, we can count on MgO boards. It has all the features and properties that make it stand out among the crowd. Magnesium oxide boards have high resistance against fire and moisture. Besides this, they are not welcoming hosts for pests and insects. The building material has high impact strength and does not wear and tear easily.
On top of that, MgO boards are an eco-friendly building material that makes it superior.
Intrigued to know the details of its properties that make it outshine? This blog post will give an answer to this question in detail. So, let’s learn what makes MgO boards superior to other building materials.
MgO Boards: An Overview
MgO boards are a popular building material, and all the properties make them stand out in the crowd. If you prefer durability, the box is checked. If you need something for aesthetics, the box is checked again. If you prioritize safety and comfort, MgO boards are a big yes.
All in all, MgO boards are the perfect building material because of their following properties:
- High fire resistance
- Moisture resistance
- Excellent noise resistance
- High strength and durability
- Fungal and mold resistance
- Variety of shapes and sizes
- Versatile usage
MgO boards are also an eco-friendly building material. From manufacturing to end-of-life, they have little to no environmental impact. Sounds too good to be true, right? But, that’s the reality.
Now that we know what MgO boards are and what makes them a perfect building material, let’s compare them to traditional building materials.
| Characteristic | MgO Boards | Gypsum Boards | Cement Boards | Fiber Cement Boards |
| Fire Resistance | A1 Non-combustible, high fire rating | Fire-resistant (limited) | Highly fire-resistant | Fire-resistant (moderate) |
| Thermal Stability | Excellent, withstands high temperatures | High, prevent mold growth | Excellent, high heat resistance | Moderate, may degrade |
| Water Resistance | Water-resistant, non-porous | Poor, absorbs water easily | Good, resistant to moisture | Moderate, resists water |
| Mold and Mildew Resistance | Low, fragile, and breakable | Low, prone to mold in damp areas | Moderate, resistant to fungi | Moderate, resists mold |
| Strength and Durability | Strong, impact-resistant | Low, fragile and breakable | High, load-bearing | Moderate, structurally sound |
| Environmental Impact | Eco-friendly, recyclable, biodegradable | Moderate, energy-intensive | High carbon footprint | Moderate sustainability |
| Chemical Safety | Non-toxic, VOC-free | May contain additives | Free from harmful chemicals | May have limited additives |
| Cost | Moderate to high (long-term savings) | Low initial cost, high maintenance | Moderate, durable but pricey | Moderate, cost-effective |
| Sound Insulation | Excellent, soundproof | Moderate, requires extra layers | Good, sound-dampening | Moderate, sound-resistant |
| Maintenance Needs | Low, long-lasting, minimal upkeep | High, frequent repairs needed | Moderate, occasional maintenance | Moderate, requires upkeep |
| Installation Ease | Easy to install, lightweight | Easy, lightweight | Heavy, labor-intensive | Moderate, requires tools |
Properties of MgO Boards
MgO Boards have a range of qualities. These qualities set them apart from most commonly used building materials. The properties of MgO boards are given:
1. Fire Resistance
MgO Boards have high fire resistance. They can withstand temperatures up to 1200 degrees without melting. And if melts, the fumes released are not hazardous at all. You can easily use it in fire-rated buildings.
2. Moisture and Mold Resistance
MgO boards can withstand high moisture and do not deform. Also, the boards are not a warm host for mold and pests. Such conditions exist in moisture-laden areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. So, you can easily use them in these areas.
3. Strength and Durability
MgO boards are impact-resistant, which makes them stronger than many conventional building materials. Because of this property, MgO Boards are used in places that experience a lot of use or impact.
4. Thermal insulation
MgO boards provide good thermal insulation, which helps preserve constant interior temperatures. They also provide sound insulation and offer soundproofing features.
5. Eco-Friendliness
MgO boards have cleaner production and manufacturing. Made from non-toxic and natural materials, these boards are also recyclable, so you can use them with leaving little to no impact on the environment.
Learn how MgO boards are an eco-friendly building choice.
6. Versatility
MgO Boards can undergo complex methods. They can be polished, molded, and cut like wood. This property gives them a range of use in different businesses. You can use MgO boards as:
- Exterior cladding
- Interior walls
- Partitions
- Roofing
- Tile backing
Now that we know the properties of MgO boards, let’s compare their core properties with traditional building materials. And you’ll see what makes MgO boards superior to other building materials.
Strength and Durability: A Core Advantage
MgO boards have high strength and durability. Their properties make them a structural material that can withstand high temperatures and extreme conditions.
| Property | MgO Boards | Drywall | Cement Boards | Plywood/OSB |
| Superior Strength for Diverse Applications | High compressive and tensile strength. Ideal for heavy-duty use | Lower strength, not suited for heavy loads | Strong but heavy, more suitable for load-bearing walls | Moderate strength, weaker under heavy loads |
| Resistance to Impact and Heavy Loads | Excellent impact resistance; does not crack or dent easily | Easily damaged by impact, prone to dents and cracks | Moderate impact resistance; can crack under pressure | Prone to dents, scratches, and cracks under impact |
| Longevity and Durability in Harsh Conditions | Resists wear, cracking, and degradation and maintains appearance over time | Prone to wear, cracking, and degradation, especially in high-humidity areas | Durable and resistant to weather, but can degrade over time | Susceptible to moisture damage and wear over time |
| Performance in Fluctuating Temperatures or Pressure | Performs well in extreme temperatures and high-pressure environments | Weakens in extreme heat or cold, not suitable for high-pressure applications | Performs better in extreme temperatures, but may crack under pressure | Resists wear, cracking, and degradation maintains appearance over time |
Fire Resistance: Built for Safety
MgO boards have fire resistance that is unmatchable. Now let’s compare the fire-resistance ability of MgO boards and other building materials to see what makes MgO boards superior.
| Property | MgO Boards | Drywall | Cement Boards | Plywood/OSB |
| Inherent Non-Combustibility | Naturally non-combustible, prevents ignition | Fire-resistant, but not non-combustible | Fire-resistant but not non-combustible | Highly flammable without treatment |
| Chemical Composition | Magnesium oxide forms a heat-resistant barrier | Gypsum slows combustion but can burn | Cement resists heat but can crack in fire | Wood burns quickly, needs treatment |
| Certification Standards for Fire Safety | No harmful fumes are released, safe for indoor air quality | Typically rated for up to 1 hour | Often rated for up to 2 hours | Low fire ratings, needs treatment |
| Fire Ratings | Can achieve fire ratings of up to 4 hours | Fire-rated for up to 1 hour | Rated up to 2 hours | Low fire rating without treatment |
| Applications | Used in fireproof walls, commercial buildings | Common in residential buildings | Used in fire-rated partitions | Rarely used in fireproof structures |
| Fumes Emission When Burning | Can irritate the respiratory system due to fumes | Can release toxic fumes like sulfur dioxide | Wood burns quickly, and needs treatment | Releases harmful fumes when burning, including formaldehyde |
| Smoke Generation | Minimal smoke production in case of fire | Smoke production, especially with paper face | Low smoke production | High smoke production when burning |
| Health Impact of Burning | No significant health risks from burning | Can release dust, and may produce toxic gases | Can cause respiratory irritation from dust | High health risk due to formaldehyde and smoke inhalation |
A comparison of MgO boards and traditional building materials like wood and Gypsum showed that MgO boards are excellent at resistance against fire.
Firstly, the material is non-combustible and can withstand temperatures up to 800*C. Moreover, the material remains intact even when the temperature goes as high as 1200*C and maintains its structural integrity. This fire-resistance ability makes MgO boards a good choice for fire-prone areas.
Also, MgO boards do not release harmful chemicals and fumes when burned. This is another plus point because traditional materials like wood release a lot of carbon and other harmful materials that harm human health and the environment.
Water and Moisture Resistance: A Barrier Against Damage
MgO boards show high resistance against moisture. And that too without showing any obvious signs like cement and wood material. Here is a comparison of MgO boards with other materials:
| Property | MgO Boards | Drywall | Cement Boards | Plywood/OSB |
| Waterproof and Moisture-Resistant Characteristics | Completely waterproof; does not absorb moisture or swell | Absorbs moisture easily, prone to warping and swelling | Moisture-resistant, but can still absorb water over time | Absorbs moisture quickly, prone to warping and swelling |
| Prevention of Mold, Mildew, and Water Seepage | Inhibits mold and mildew growth due to high alkalinity | Easily prone to mold and mildew growth in wet areas | Resistant to mold but not completely immune | Easily affected by mold and mildew in high-humidity areas |
| Comparison with Other Materials in Wet Conditions | Outperforms drywall, plywood, and OSB in high-humidity and wet environments | Vulnerable to water damage and mold growth | Good resistance, but not as effective as MgO boards | Poor moisture resistance, prone to rot and deterioration |
| Usage | Widely used in flood-prone areas, coastal regions, and bathrooms due to excellent water resistance | Often fails in wet conditions, requiring frequent replacement | Suitable for wet conditions but not ideal for highly saturated environments | Frequently requires treatment and replacement in wet conditions |
Pest and Fungal Resistance
| Property | MgO Boards | Drywall | Cement Boards | Plywood/OSB |
| Resistant to Pests | Naturally resistant to termites, insects, and rodents without needing chemical treatments | Susceptible to pests like termites, especially in wood-framed structures | Resistant to termites but can still attract pests in humid conditions | Easily affected by termites and rodents, especially if untreated |
| Resistance to Termites and Insects | MgO’s chemical structure repels pests naturally, ensuring no infestation | Vulnerable to pest damage, especially in warm and moist environments | Moderate resistance to pests, but can still be compromised | High risk of pest damage without chemical treatment |
| No Room for Mold or Mildew Growth | Magnesium oxide’s high alkalinity prevents mold, mildew, and fungal growth | Mold and mildew can thrive in damp conditions | Resistant to mold, but may still develop in extreme moisture | Easily susceptible to mold, mildew, and fungal growth in humid environments |
| Preventing Fungal Growth | The high pH of MgO boards creates an environment where fungi cannot grow | Drywall can support mold growth if exposed to moisture | Cement boards are less conducive to fungal growth but can still be compromised by prolonged moisture exposure | Plywood and OSB are prime environments for mold and fungi in wet or humid conditions |
| Long-Term Health Benefits in Residential and Commercial Settings | Promotes better indoor air quality by preventing mold and pest infestations | Can affect air quality if mold or pests infest the material | Health risks if mold or pests compromise the material over time | Health risks due to mold, mildew, and pest infestations, particularly in humid conditions |
Environmental Benefits: A Sustainable Choice
One of the key aspects of MgO boards that make them superior is their low environmental footprint. MgO boards have a cleaner production and manufacturing process. And they does not ended up in landfills. You can use them in different recyclable forms. Let’s compare the environmental aspects of sustainable MgO boards:
| Property | MgO Boards | Drywall | Cement Boards | Plywood/OSB |
| Eco-Friendly Composition | Made from natural, abundant minerals like magnesium oxide; minimal chemical additives | Made from gypsum, which requires mining and processing | Contains cement, sand, and fibers; energy-intensive production | Made from wood; requires deforestation and chemical treatments |
| Use of Non-Toxic Materials | Non-toxic, no harmful VOC emissions | May contain chemicals and paper coatings | May release harmful dust during cutting | Can off-gas formaldehyde and other chemicals |
| Low Carbon Footprint | Lower carbon footprint due to less energy-intensive production | Moderate; gypsum mining has environmental impacts | High carbon footprint due to cement manufacturing | Less energy is used during curing and processing |
| Energy Efficiency in Manufacturing | Less energy used during curing and processing | Moderate; gypsum production requires heating | High due to cement production | Moderate, though some OSB production is energy-intensive |
| Thermal Insulation Properties | Excellent; good R-value for insulation | Moderate thermal insulation | Moderate thermal resistance | Low thermal insulation; requires added insulation materials |
| Recyclability and Waste Reduction | Fully recyclable; can be repurposed or used as filler in new boards | Limited recyclability; typically sent to landfills | Not easily recyclable; ends up as construction waste | Can be recycled if untreated, but often disposed of |
| Circular Construction Contribution | Supports circular economy through reuse and eco-friendly disposal | Limited due to gypsum’s recycling challenges | Minimal due to cement’s non-recyclable nature | Can contribute if sustainably sourced and untreated |
Related to this point, MgO boards have low environmental impacts during and after life. Traditional materials, when burnt, become part of soil or water and pollute it. On the contrary, MgO boards do not release harmful chemicals.
Based on all these features, MgO boards have versatile applications in indoor and outdoor environments. Wood and other materials have limited applications. Some materials are suitable for indoor environments, while others are best for outdoor environments.
MgO vs. Drywall
| Feature | MgO Boards | Drywall |
| Material Composition | Magnesium Oxide, fiberglass, and fillers | Gypsum core with paper facing |
| Strength & Durability | Highly impact-resistant and durable | Less impact-resistant; prone to dents |
| Fire Resistance | Non-combustible, fire-rated up to 4 hours | Fire-resistant but can burn eventually |
| Water & Moisture Resistance | Waterproof, mold, and mildew-resistant | Absorbs moisture; prone to mold growth |
| Pest Resistance | Inherently resistant to termites and insects | Vulnerable to pest damage if exposed |
| Environmental Impact | Eco-friendly, recyclable, and energy-efficient | Not eco-friendly; non-recyclable core |
| Sound Insulation | Excellent soundproofing properties | Moderate sound insulation |
| Thermal Insulation | Good thermal insulation | Poor to moderate thermal insulation |
Gypsum boards are fire-resistant but degrades at high temperatures. In the case of MGO boards, they are organic building materials so the material is non-combustible and helps to withstand high temperatures. As compared to gypsum, MGO boards are highly resistant to water, mold, and mildew. Gypsum is considered suspectable to moisture and mold.
Gypsum has a lower initial cost so requires replacement after some time. Whereas, MgO boards have high upfront costs. But, they are highly durable while gypsum is prone to cracking and denting.
MGO boards have versatile applications. It is used in walls, ceilings, floors, and exteriors. While gypsum has limited application. They can only used for interior walls and ceiling. Gypsum is a very lightweight material and easily handled while MGO boards are lightweight but heavier than gypsum.
MGO boards are eco-friendly and made from natural and Recyclable materials. As compared to MGO board, gypsum is less eco-friendly and also made from chemical additives.
MgO vs. Cement Boards
| Feature | MgO Boards | Cement Boards |
| Durability & Strength | Highly durable, impact-resistant, and load-bearing. | Durable but prone to cracking under heavy impact. |
| Fire Resistance | Excellent fire resistance; withstands extreme heat. | Fire-resistant but less effective than MgO boards. |
| Moisture Resistance | Superior moisture resistance; prevents mold and rot. | Performs well in moisture but can absorb water over time. |
| Sustainability | Made from natural, non-toxic materials, eco-friendly. | Contains cement, less environmentally friendly. |
| Ease of Installation | Lightweight, easy to cut, quick to install. | Heavier, requires special tools for cutting. |
| Cost | Higher upfront costs, but long-term value is greater. | Lower initial cost but higher maintenance over time. |
Both MgO and cement boards are extremely fire-resistant and non-flammable. MgO boards are extremely resistant to mold, mildew, and water. Although cement boards are also resistant to moisture, they can develop mold on their surface.
MgO boards are extremely non-toxic and environmentally beneficial building materials. Unlike cement, it is composed of recyclable, natural materials.
In comparison to cement boards, magnesium oxide boards are lighter. MgO boards are also quite resilient. Despite being regarded as an instant solution, cement is prone to fracture.
MgO vs. Plywood
Here is a comparison of MgO boards and plywood to understand their characteristics.
| Criteria | MGO Board | Plywood |
| Material Composition | Made from magnesium oxide (MGO), sand, and other additives. | Made from layers of wood veneer glued together. |
| Moisture Resistance | Highly resistant to moisture. Does not swell or wrap. | Swell or warp if exposed to excessive moisture. |
| Durability | Very durable | Durable but less resistant to impact and moisture. |
| Weight | Heavier than plywood. | Lighter and easier to handle. |
| Fire Resistance | Excellent fire resistance (non-combustible). | Limited fire resistance and can catch fire in high temperatures. |
| Ease of Installation | Requires special tools for cutting and installation. | Easier to cut and install with standard tools. |
| Cost | More expensive | More affordable |
| Environmental Impact | Eco-friendly due to non-toxic materials. | Not a sustainable option |
| Sound Insulation | Provides better sound insulation properties. | Less effective at sound insulation than MGO. |
| Lifespan | Longer lifespan due to superior resistance to environmental factors. | Shorter lifespan, especially in high moisture areas. |
MgO boards have a strong fire resistance since they are made of non-flammable elements. However, plywood is prone to burning and charring. When compared to magnesium oxide boards, plywood is lighter. And therefore, can easily be handled.
MgO boards have high resistance against water, mildew, and mold. Plywood has a modest level of water resistance, yet it gets swell.
MgO birds are regarded as an environmentally beneficial choice because they are made of green building materials. It is composed of recyclable and natural materials. However, plywood’s use of wood veneers raises questions about deforestation.
MgO boards are a flexible material that can be used for flooring, walls, ceilings, and exteriors. Plywood, however, is solely used for structural purposes. It is only utilized for flooring and furniture. Plywood is not nearly as durable as magnesium oxide boards. The primary explanation is that plywood is more likely to fracture or delaminate.
Although plywood is less expensive initially, it will require more upkeep over time. MgO board is more expensive up front, but it has long-term benefits.
Applications of MgO Boards
MgO boards are very versatile. Their unique features allow them to be used in a variety of ways across the construction industry:
- Wall and Ceiling Panels
Due to their exceptional power, MgO boards are popular for interior and exterior wall panels. Their extensive benefits allow them to replace traditional building materials easily.
- Flooring
MgO boards are highly strong and durable. Therefore, they are best suited for flooring. The sound insulation properties and high strength make them an ideal choice for high-traffic areas. MgO boards give a solid foundation for tiles, carpets, and other flooring types.
- Wet Area Lining
MgO boards are moisture-resistant. That’s why you can easily use them in wet spaces. They are used in;
- Bathroom
- Kitchens
- Laundry spaces
- Basements
You can also use them in spaces with little to no moisture.
- Soundproof Buildings
MgO boards provide soundproofing properties, making them perfect for use in offices and recording studios. They are also ideal choices for hospitals and educational institutions.
- Siding and roofing
The boards are suitable for underlayment in roofing applications and siding because they can tolerate high temperatures and dampness. Additionally, they are a robust option for outdoor applications subject to harsh weather.
- Fireproof barriers
MgO boards are frequently utilized due to their ability to withstand fire. They are used in ceilings, fireproof partitions, and walls with a fire rating. This is particularly helpful in buildings where fire safety is essential. Commercial spaces, industrial facilities, and residential buildings all benefit from these boards.
- Panels with structural insulation
The face material for SIPs is magnesium oxide (MgO) boards. These boards are used in energy-efficient structures. They provide better insulation and strengthen the panels’ structural integrity.
- Prefabricated Buildings
Builders use MgO boards in prefabricated construction due to their lightweight design. Their simple installation makes them a practical choice. MgO boards provide a strong, durable, and fire-resistant solution. They also help reduce building time.
What Distinguishes Sulfycor?
Sulfycor has been successfully dealing with clients for more than 8 years, and here is what it offers:
- Chloride-free MgO boards
- Variety of MgO boards like Magnesium sulfate boards etc.
- High-quality magnesium oxide boards that meet ISO quality and safety standards
- Customized boards in different shapes and sizes
- Different types of boards depending on the applications
- 24/7 availability over calls and social media
- Door-to-door service
At Sulfycor, every item undergoes strict evaluations for exceptional heat-fire resistance, moisture control, and durability. Our MGO boards are eco-friendly, manufactured to be safe with very low emissions, and well structured to comply with the current fire safety standards.
Besides this, Sulfycor understands and helps select the right materials for the right applications. It appears the best choice for residential, commercial, and industrial segments as well.
Contact us to discuss your project. We will ensure you receive a top-notch product on your doorstep.
To Sum It Up
That’s everything you need to know about what makes MgO boards superior to other building materials. MgO boards have high strength and durability. Their unique properties like fire resistance, moisture resistance, and noise-reducing capability make them a top building material. These boards are versatile and can be used in multiple ways. So, if you’re planning to amp up your home, consider MgO boards.