Magnesium Oxide Board (MgO board) has become one of the most reliable building materials for modern construction. Known for its fire resistance, moisture protection, environmental safety, and long-term durability, MgO board is widely used in interior walls, ceilings, flooring substrates, and exterior cladding systems.

However, selecting the right MgO board for your project requires evaluating several technical factors. This guide provides a clear, professional, and practical approach to help builders, contractors, and project managers make the best decision.

1. Check the Fire Rating (A1 Grade Recommended)

Fire safety is a top concern in commercial and residential projects. A high-quality MgO board should meet the A1 non-combustible standard, meaning it will not ignite or contribute to fire spread.

Key fire-performance indicators:

• Certified A1/A fire rating
• Fire resistance up to 800–1000°C
• Third-party test reports from accredited laboratories
• Suitable for fire-rated walls, elevator shafts, corridors, schools, hospitals, and public buildings

Selecting A1-rated MgO boards ensures maximum fire protection and compliance with international safety codes.

2. Evaluate Moisture Resistance and Durability

Moisture stability directly affects service life. Poor-quality boards absorb water easily, leading to deformation, cracking, and mold.

A reliable MgO board should offer:

• Water absorption ≤ 15%
• High dimensional stability in humid environments
• Mold-resistant and anti-bacterial surfaces
• No swelling or delamination under prolonged moisture

This makes MgO boards ideal for bathrooms, basements, kitchens, and coastal buildings.

3. Review Material Composition and Mechanical Strength

The core material determines long-term stability.

A high-quality MgO board should use:

• High-purity active magnesium oxide
• Alkali-resistant fiberglass mesh as reinforcement
• Eco-friendly fillers to improve density and toughness

Recommended mechanical properties:

• Compressive strength: 8–12 MPa (high-end boards reach 20–40 MPa)
• Flexural strength suitable for framing systems
• Thermal conductivity: ≤ 0.06 W/(m·K) for better insulation
• Density range: 0.85 – 1.5 t/m³ depending on application

These indicators ensure the board can withstand impact, load, and structural stress.

4. Confirm Environmental and Health Certifications

For residential and commercial environments, material safety is essential.

A qualified MgO board should be:

• Formaldehyde-free
• Asbestos-free
• Non-toxic and odorless
• In compliance with ISO environmental certifications
• Compatible with LEED green building standards

These features make MgO board suitable for sensitive applications such as schools, hospitals, nursing homes, and children’s rooms.

5. Choose the Correct Specifications for Your Project

Most MgO boards come in standard sizes such as 1200 × 2400 mm, which are easy to cut, drill, and install.

Factors to consider:

• Thickness (6–20 mm depending on walls, ceilings, floors)
• Density (higher density for flooring or exterior use)
• Surface finish (smooth, sanded, laminated)
• Installation method (screws, framing systems, adhesives)

For example:

• Interior walls / ceilings: 6–10 mm
• Floor underlayment: 10–12 mm high-density
• Exterior panels: 8–12 mm with moisture protection

6. Verify Real Performance Through Case Studies or Manufacturer Tests

A professional supplier should provide:

• Fire test reports
• Bending strength and compressive strength data
• Long-term moisture stability tests
• Application case photos or engineering records

7. Compare Cost vs. Performance

MgO board prices vary depending on thickness, density, and surface treatment.

Typical price range:

• Standard MgO board: affordable, suitable for indoor partitions
• Waterproof / Structural MgO board: higher cost but better stability
• Decorative MgO board: premium finish for visible surfaces

Balancing performance and budget ensures the best value for your project.

Conclusion: Choose Wisely for Long-Term Performance

Selecting the right MgO board is not simply about price—it’s about ensuring safety, durability, environmental protection, and installation efficiency.

When evaluating suppliers, always check:

• Fire rating
• Moisture resistance
• Composition & mechanical strength
• Environmental certifications
• Real engineering data
• Suitable size & thickness for your project