When comparing MgO board sheathing to OSB (oriented strand board) sheathing, several key differences stand out, particularly in performance, durability, and sustainability.
Fire Resistance
MgO Board: Naturally fire-resistant, with many brands achieving high fire ratings, often classified as non-combustible. It is ideal for applications requiring fire-rated assemblies, especially in high-risk fire zones or for projects that meet stringent fire safety codes.
OSB Board: OSB is not inherently fire-resistant and typically requires additional fire protection layers, such as gypsum, to meet fire safety codes.
Moisture Resistance
MgO Board: Highly resistant to moisture, mold, and mildew, making it suitable for humid environments and applications where moisture exposure is a concern. MgO boards do not degrade or swell when exposed to water.
OSB Board: While engineered to resist moisture, OSB can swell, warp, and degrade over time when exposed to water. Prolonged exposure to moisture can reduce its structural integrity.
Structural Strength and Durability
MgO Board: Offers excellent impact resistance and flexural strength, making it a durable choice for areas requiring high structural performance. It resists warping and cracking even under extreme conditions.
OSB Board: OSB has good structural strength and is widely used in standard wall and roof sheathing. Howeve ,compared to MgO boards, it is more susceptible to damage from impact and environmental factors (like moisture and temperature changes)s.
Environmental Impact
MgO Board: MgO boards have a lower carbon footprint due to their cleaner manufacturing process. Magnesium oxide is abundant and naturally occurring, and the boards don’t contain harmful chemicals like formaldehyde.
OSB Board: OSB is manufactured from wood chips and adhesives, often containing formaldehyde, a known VOC. While OSB is considered more sustainable than plywood (as it uses smaller, fast-growing trees), its chemical content and manufacturing process contribute to a higher carbon footprint than MgO.
Cost
MgO Board: Generally more expensive upfront compared to OSB. However, its long-term durability, fire resistance, and moisture resistance can reduce the need for additional layers or repairs, offering potential savings over time.
OSB Board is typically less expensive, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious builders. However, depending on the application, additional fireproofing and moisture barriers may be required.
Ease of Installation
MgO Board: MgO is relatively easy to install and often eliminates the need for additional fire-rated gypsum layers, speeding up construction. However, it may require different tools for cutting and handling, which can add some complexity.
OSB Board: Well-known for its ease of installation, OSB is lightweight, readily available, and can be installed wit standard tools used in wood-frame construction.
Health and Indoor Air Quality
MgO Board: MgO is a healthier choice for indoor applications because it doesn't off-gas harmful chemicals like formaldehyde or VOCs. Its resistance to mold and mildew also contributes to healthier indoor environments.
OSB: Some OSB panels release formaldehyde and other VOCs, which can negatively impact indoor air quality, especially in poorly ventilated areas.
Weight
MgO Board: Typically, it is heavier than OSB for the wall and subfloor sheathing, making it easier to handle during installation and reducing transportation costs, which make handling and transportation more complex and potentially increase labor costs
OSB Board is lighter than MgO for the wall and subfloor sheathing, making it easier to handle during installation and reducing transportation costs.
Summary
MgO Board Sheathing: This is best for projects requiring high fire resistance, moisture durability, and long-term sustainability. While more expensive, it can reduce the need for additional layers in construction and provide superior durability.
OSB Sheathing: This is ideal for standard applications where fire resistance or extreme moisture protection isn't a primary concern. It’s a cost-effective option, but it may require additional treatments or layers to meet fire and moisture requirements.
The MgO board offers a distinct advantage for fire-rated, moisture-sensitive, or high-performance builds. OSB sheathing might remain a practical and economical choice for more conventional builds.
Our MagMatrix BMSC 517 new sulfate MGO board is a specific type of MgO (Magnesium Oxide) sheathing board manufactured by JP Group MagMatrix brand, known for its fire resistance, durability, and eco-friendly properties. The MagMatrix BMSC 517 MgO Sheathing Board is an excellent choice for builders looking for a high-performance, durable, and sustainable sheathing material. Its fire resistance, moisture protection, and eco-friendly composition make it a strong competitor against traditional sheathing materials like OSB, plywood, and gypsum. This board suits projects where fire safety, long-term durability, and environmental sustainability are top priorities.
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