While MgO panels have been used in single-family construction since the 1970s, widespread adoption in multifamily, commercial, and modular building sectors has accelerated in the last 15 years – especially due to rising demands for fire- and moisture-resistant materials.
Building Types & Applications
Single-Family Homes
Ideal for exterior wall protection in wildfire zones, moisture-prone areas (e.g., pool houses, spas), and fire separation walls in garages.
Multifamily Residences
Commonly used in exterior walls, fire-rated demising walls, and underlayment systems that require structural performance and acoustic insulation.
Commercial Facilities
Hospitals, schools, offices, and hotels benefit from MgO panels’ compliance with 1 and 2-hour fire ratings, NFPA 285 assemblies, and robust moisture protection.
Modular & Panelized Construction
MgO panels’ dimensional stability and impact resistance make them ideal for offsite fabrication and transportation to job sites.
Typical Installation Areas
Interior Walls: ½” panels for fire-rated partitions; ¼” panels for abuse-prone areas
Exterior Walls: ½” panels replace traditional wood and gypsum with structural and fire-rated options
Structural Subfloors: ¾” panels replace Portland cement panels in commercial construction and OSB and gypsum concrete assemblies in multifamily and hospitality projects
Floor Underlayment: ½” panels create a smooth, fire- and sound-rated surface without using gypsum concrete
Backer Board: Several thicknesses of MgO panels may be used as backer boards in bathroom, kitchen, and other wet or humid environments
Climate Zones and Building Conditions
MgO panels are especially suited for the following climate zones and building conditions:
- Hurricane or tornado-prone areas
- Coastal or flood-prone regions
- Climates where fire-resistance ratings are required, such as wildfire-prone areas including western U.S. states
- Climates where termites and insects cause significant degradation to traditional construction materials such as wood
- Laboratories, restaurants, and agricultural buildings
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