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Magpanel MGO Board Learning Center
Dive into the world of Magpanel MGO at our Learning Center. Unlock the potential of Magnesium Oxide boards for construction with expert guides, tutorials, and resources. From installation techniques to project inspiration, discover the versatility and benefits of Magpanel MGO. Elevate your building knowledge and explore innovative solutions for a resilient and sustainable future.
Magpanel MGO Board FAQs
We do not provide installation services but have no fear as there are many high-quality contractors in your state and the majority will be eager to provide a free estimate over the phone or in the comfort of your own home. We recommend that you check out our helpful article titled 7 Tips For Choosing A Floor Installer.
We highly recommend reading our Shipping Policy for a comprehensive explanation of our shipping processes.
We ship most freight orders (over 125 lbs) out within 4 business days of purchase, the average being 2 business days. For faster shipment of freight orders, we offer an Expedited Shipping option at checkout however please note that this simply means that we will ship the order out the next business day - it does not shorten the transit time once shipped. For small parcel orders we offer express UPS shipping options at checkout as well; please note that for express shipping services the order must be placed by 2pm EST in order to ship out that same day, otherwise we will process the shipment the next business day. We do not ship out orders, nor do the shipping companies deliver them, on weekends.
For residential lift-gate freight order deliveries, once the flooring order arrives at the local freight terminal, they will call you to schedule your delivery appointment, which is usually a 2-6 hour window on the day of your choosing (weekdays only) when possible. All deliveries are curbside as the freight companies do not offer inside delivery.
MagPanel® is a strong, high quality, fireproof, mineral-based building material used to replace regular MgO boards, plywood, fiber cement panels, OSB and gypsum wallboards. It is an extremely versatile product for use with interior and exterior construction. It is made from bonding certain elements (including magnesium and oxygen) which results in an extremely strong cement-like material.
Expansive deposits of magnesium oxide can be found in China, Europe, and Canada. The great White Mountains in China have so much natural MgO, it is estimated there is enough to last another 800 years at today's rate of consumption. Thus, MagPanel® is an incredible building material with seemingly unlimited uses. It can be used in place of drywall, and some of the many applications include sub-flooring and tile backer, ceilings, walls, exteriors, soffits, sheathing, coding substrates, shaft-liner, bathtub enclosures, and exterior siding. When used for exterior projects it must be coated or protected from the elements.
MgO board is harder and stronger than drywall, and it is resistant to fire, insects, mold, mildew, and rot. It is sound and impact resistant, and has good insulating characteristics. It's noncombustible and non-toxic, has a receptive bonding surface, and contains no dangerous toxins like some other building materials. One exciting characteristic about Magnesium board is that it's lightweight while still being very, very strong. Therefore, a smaller amount of MgO board can do the same job (or better) as a greater amount of another material, such as sheetrock. And don't forget, because MgO board is so moisture-resistant, it lasts a very long time. The Great Wall of China is a perfect example of that!
Magpanel® can be sawed, drilled, router-shaped, scored and snapped, nailed, and painted. It's many uses in the construction field include fireproof materials for ceilings and walls in every type of construction including apartment complexes, theaters, airports, hospitals, and much more.
This amazingly versatile product also happens to be very green (environmentally friendly – not the color green). It has no ammonia, formaldehyde, benzene, silica, or asbestos, and it is completely safe for humans. It's a natural product that can be completely recycled, so it leaves a very small carbon footprint, and has no negative impact on landfills.
MagPanel® is available in a variety of sizes and thicknesses, it comes in a choice of basic colors and textures, and there are different grades and strengths to choose from, depending on the application. Because it is so hard, there is no need to place joints on a stud. And because it is so stiff, thin boards can be used in place of thicker boards of another material.
The ideal thickness depends on where you're using it:
Ceilings:
- Fastened to Framing: For direct attachment to wood or light gauge steel, use 12mm or thicker. Choose a thicker board if countersinking screws for a smoother finish.
- Drop Ceilings: 2mm or 6mm panels are suitable for their lighter weight.
Walls:
- Standard: 12mm is versatile for most walls, providing a good balance of strength and ease of handling.
- Fire/Impact Resistance: For enhanced protection, choose 15mm - 20mm boards.
- Continuous Backing: If the MagPanel is fully supported by a continuous surface like cement or insulation, 6mm - 9mm can suffice, especially if weight is a concern (like in mobile homes).
Flooring:
- Subfloor: Use 20mm or thicker for maximum rigidity and support beneath your final flooring.
Additional Notes:
- Weight vs. Strength: Thicker panels are stronger but also heavier.
- Building Codes: Always consult your local building codes as they might have specific requirements for MagPanel usage.
We make it easy to get your hands on MagPanel:
- Ordering Online: Our website offers a convenient way to buy MagPanel directly from us. We ship to homes and businesses worldwide!
- Need Help? Get your questions answered quickly through our live chat or by calling us at (866) 710-7070.
- Not Sure Yet? Order samples first to see and feel the quality of MagPanel before you commit to a larger order.
We're excited to help you discover the benefits of MagPanel for your project!
Understanding the Base:
Both MagPanel and standard MGO boards start with magnesium oxide (MgO) as their core ingredient. Here's how it's made:
- Magnesium carbonate is heated, removing carbon and leaving MgO behind.
- This MgO is formed into a strong, stone-like material, ideal for construction.
The Key Difference: Magpanel contains magnesium sulfate, regular MGO Boards contain magnesium chloride
MagPanel:
- Magnesium Sulfate is the primary secondary ingredient, prevents moisture issues and is eco-friendly.
- Minor Components: Perlite, wood fiber, and fiberglass mesh for additional strength and stability.
Regular MGO Boards:
- Magnesium Chloride is the primary secondary ingredient; functional but can lead to moisture and corrosion concerns over time, may result in "weeping boards", a result of corrosion that occurs as a result of the magnesium chloride interacting with metal fasteners and structural components.
Composition and Safety
Here's a simplified breakdown of MagPanel composition from the MSDS:
- Magnesium Oxide: ~50% (main structural component)
- Magnesium Sulfate: ~40% (key advantage of MagPanel)
- Other: Perlite, Wood Fiber, Fiberglass Mesh (~10% total)
Historical Context: MgO-based compounds enjoy a long history in construction, seen in structures like the Great Wall of China all the up to modern masterpieces like Taipei 101. MgO itself is non-flammable and often used in fireproofing.
Magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) MgO boards (MagPanel) and magnesium chloride (MgCl2) MgO boards differ primarily in the type of magnesium salt used in their manufacture. Magnesium sulfate boards use magnesium sulfate as the bonding agent, which is known for being less corrosive and more stable, thereby reducing the risk of moisture absorption and subsequent damage. Magnesium chloride boards, on the other hand, utilize magnesium chloride, which is more cost-effective but can be more susceptible to moisture, leading to a phenomenon known as "weeping" or "halo effect," where the chloride ions attract moisture, potentially causing corrosion of metal components in contact with the board.
While Magpanel might have a slightly higher initial cost per sheet compared to regular drywall, it offers several long-term cost benefits:
- Durability: MagPanel's strength and resistance to moisture, mold, and fire increase the lifespan of your structure, saving you money on future repairs or replacements.
- Versatility: MagPanel can be used in various applications, sometimes replacing the need for multiple specialized products. This can lead to overall project cost savings.
- Added Functionality: MagPanel's strength allows you to hang light shelves, pictures, and other items directly on it, potentially eliminating the need for additional wall reinforcement.
In Summary: Think of MagPanel as an investment. You pay a bit more upfront but gain significant value in terms of durability, versatility, and reduced maintenance costs over time.
If your building has a freight dock, the freight company will deliver your pallet of flooring to that dock, as long as it it large enough/suitable for a large tractor trailer to back up into. If you are unusure of this, you will want to contact your building management before scheduling your order delivery appointment. If the dock is not suitable for a tractor trailer, the next option is for the freight company to lower the pallets onto the curbside near the most accessible entrance to your building. If no such curbside is available, you may need to drive to the local freight company terminal to pick your order up (or request your contractor/installer to pick up the order for you).
We highly recommend you review our Shipping Policy, which has a lot of great information and a short video about the shipping process. When your order ships out we’ll send you a notification email with all of your shipping information. Once the shipment arrives at the local freight terminal near your delivery location, the terminal staff will call you to schedule a delivery appointment* (weekdays, usually a 2-6 hour window). Make sure you don’t miss the delivery appointment or the freight company may charge a hefty re-delivery fee. *if you have selected commercial/freight dock delivery, freight may be delivered without needing an appointment
Once the order arrives, ensure you mark any damages you see on the driver’s bill of lading (they’ll then usually give you a copy). You don’t have to open and inspect every item, just look at the outside of the pallet – that is where the shipping damage will be. Ensure you write the number of damaged items and detailed notes, then take photos of the damaged items and email all of this information to your Ambient representative to ensure we can ship out free replacements.
Important note: If your delivery location is located on a road that cannot be accessed by a semi-trailer truck, you may be required to pick the freight up at the local terminal or meet the driver at an intermediary location.
We accept the following payments:
1. All major credit and debit cards.
2. Personal and bank checks (please note there may be a 14-day shipping delay).
3. ACH payments.
4. Paypal. In fact, PayPal Credit offers financing.
No, MagPanel is made from safe, natural materials:
- Primary Ingredients: It's primarily composed of magnesium oxide and magnesium sulfate (Epsom salts).
- Other Components: A small amount of wood fiber, perlite or vermiculite, and a glass fiber mesh backing.
- No VOCs or Toxins: MagPanel is free of volatile organic compounds and other toxic ingredients.
- Controlled Chloride Content: We strictly regulate chloride levels during manufacturing to ensure they stay below 1%.
Important Safety Note: While MagPanel itself is safe, cutting and sanding creates dust. It's essential to wear proper silica/concrete dust respirators for protection during these tasks.
They are used in a variety of applications including interior and exterior wall sheathing, ceiling applications, fireproofing, and as a substrate for flooring and tiling.
MagPanel MgO Panels are sold in standard 4 × 8 ft sheets and in multiple thickness from 1/8" up to 1" (3mm to 25mm.) We maintain stock in some thicknesses and all other thicknesses are available with a 90 day lead times (minimum order quantities may apply). You can find more detailed information on our Magpanel MGO Boards products page.
Yes! MagPanel offers excellent versatility for various finishes. Here's what you need to know:
Compatible Finishes:
- Paint: Most paints work well, but a primer is essential (see below).
- Stucco, Synthetic Stucco
- Wallpaper
- Plaster
- Stone, Tile, Brick
- EIFS and SIPS systems
Why Primer Matters: MagPanel is alkaline, so always start with a primer designed for concrete or masonry. This creates a neutral base for optimal adhesion of your topcoat.
Specialty Paints: Some paints chemically bond with MagPanel, creating extremely durable, UV-resistant finishes. Ask your paint supplier for recommendations.
Testing is Key: Before finishing the entire project, test a small area. Apply your chosen finish, let it cure fully, then use the "tape test" (apply masking tape, press firmly, rip off) to ensure your finish has a strong bond.
Additional Tips:
- Surface Preparation: Ensure the MagPanel surface is clean and smooth before finishing.
- Product Instructions: Always follow the instructions for your specific paint, stucco, or tile adhesive.
Here's a recommended method to ensure a smooth and durable finish:
Important:
- Leave Gaps: Leave about a 1/6" to 1/8" gap between Magpanel sheets to accommodate expansion and contraction.
- Choose the right products: Use a flexible filler, like Manus-Bond 75-AM, for the initial gap fill and a sandable joint compound for later coats.
Step-by-Step Guide:
It is paramount to maintain a stable temperature and humidity condition before, during, and after MgO installation on an interior wall or ceiling system.
MagPanel has a density of approximately 1 gram per cubic centimeter. Here's how its weight compares to other common materials:
- 12mm (1/2 inch) MagPanel: Around 2.2 pounds per square foot.
- Gypsum Board: Generally lighter than MagPanel of the same thickness.
- Cement Board: Typically heavier than MagPanel.
Key Point: While denser than gypsum, MagPanel's superior strength often allows you to use a thinner board, reducing the overall installation weight.
Yes, Magnesium Oxide boards are highly fire-resistant, offering excellent protection against fire, which makes them suitable for use in fire-prone areas. MagPanel is A1 Fire Rated and tested to over 750° C (1,382° F) with no discoloration over 30 minutes.
None of our products are brought inside the delivery location by the driver. All small parcel shipments are at the discretion and policy of the shipping company.
Flooring freight shipments are curbside delivery with lift-gate unless you specifically request freight dock delivery. Curbside delivery means they lower the pallet on the street at the end of the driveway. The drivers are not required to enter the property boundaries, although if not hazardous sometimes they’ll back up the driveway (if it’s flat and short) and drop the pallet on the driveway.
All materials that exceed 4 ft in width or 6 ft in length (Iike bamboo plywood, MagPanel, decking, etc) must bee unloaded by hand, or forklift, at the curbside. Large pallets arrive situated on the truck lengthwise and require a forklift with 8 ft forks or extensions to offload. For large orders we recommend a forklift on-site capable of lifting 4,000 lbs unless alternative arrangements are made. It is the responsibility of the customer to ensure the proper equipment is on-site at the delivery location to unload large-dimension shipments.
It is imperative that the customer, or an authorized representative, be present on-site to accept the delivery, conduct an inspection for any external damages, and document any noted damages on the delivery driver’s bill of lading. Failure to do so will render us unable to provide complimentary replacements. We strongly advise against the engagement of labor for the sole purpose of awaiting the delivery, as freight companies occasionally fail to meet scheduled appointments, and compensation for such delays is not offered.
Our website may offer the option of "Garage Delivery" at an additional charge during checkout. This service is limited to the placement of the materials pallet into a carport or garage, subject to specific terms and conditions apply.
MagPanel is moisture-resistant but not waterproof. During periods of extended exposure, moisture can affect it and cause hydrothermal expansion. When used outdoors, it should always be covered or coated to protect it from the elements.
MagPanel is designed for resilience, but like all building materials, it's important to understand its behavior:
- Expansion and Contraction: MagPanel, like all structural MgO boards, will experience some slight movement with significant temperature or humidity shifts. This is why expansion gaps and flexible joint compounds are recommended during installation. Magpanel must also be acclimated to it's environment before it is secured or finished, and when finished indoors, humidity must remain stable to reduce expansion and contraction issues.
- Outdoor Resilience: MagPanel stands up well under weather conditions like rain and wind, but a proper coating is essential for protection.
- Freezing: MagPanel itself is freeze-thaw resistant. However, if it absorbs moisture before a freeze, some surface damage can occur. Proper sealing and moisture management are key in freeze-prone climates.
Tips for Optimal Performance
- Follow Installation Guidelines: Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for spacing and recommended sealants or coatings.
- Consider Your Climate: In areas with extreme temperature swings or high humidity, choose joint treatments and coatings designed to handle those specific conditions.
Here are the recommended methods:
Fasteners:
- Screws: Choose corrosion-resistant screws, ideally with self-boring heads for easier installation. Drywall screws with a phosphoric coating are also suitable.
- Nails: For wood framing, use appropriate length gun nails. For light gauge steel framing, use screws designed for metal.
Adhesives:
- If you need to bond Magpanel to itself, metal, expanded polystyrene, wood, or laminates, a moisture-cured urethane adhesive like ChemLink M1 is a great option.
Important: Always follow the specific instructions for the fasteners and adhesives you choose. Consider the type of framing and the specific application when deciding on the best method.
While it can be a bummer if your shipment arrives damaged – it is not the end of the world! We can easily send you free replacements for anything that was damaged in transit - all we ask is that you do not refuse the shipment and mark any damages on the receipt provided by the driver. After that, please take a few photos of product while it is still on the pallet and email them to [email protected] so we can make a record on your account. Then, please examine the items further once you've brought them inside to determine the extent of the damage, and take photos of affected areas if you require replacements. Once we receive the details and photos we will send out the replacements right away. Most of the time, installers will be able to work around the damage instead of waiting to get replacements. For more information please see our Shipping Policy page.
Occasionally you will have an item with a visible defect either in the stain, finish, or milling. Like most building materials suppliers our effective defect rate is under the industry-standard 3%. However, if you are finding that more than 3% of the product you have ordered has defects, please let us know as soon as possible so we can resolve the matter quickly.
Here are the recommended methods for safe and efficient cutting:
Power Cutting:
- Circular Saw or Worm Drive Saw: Use a saw equipped with a thin carbide blade specifically designed for cement board. This ensures clean cuts and extends the life of your blade.
- Dust Control: Cutting MagPanel creates dust. Wear a respirator and work in a well-ventilated area or use a dust collection system.
Scoring and Snapping:
- For Smaller Cuts: Score the MagPanel deeply with a razor blade or utility knife along a straight edge. Snap the board away from the scored side for a quicker cut. Note that this may leave a slightly rougher edge.
Additional Tips:
- Secure the Board: Support the MagPanel firmly on a stable surface while cutting.
- Eye Protection: Always wear safety glasses.
- Edge Finishing: If needed, lightly sand the cut edges for a smoother finish.
- Glue Corners: To minimize micro-cracking, apply a small amount of construction adhesive to reinforce corners after cutting.
MagPanel offers significant benefits over these common building materials:
- Fire Resistance: MagPanel boasts impressive fire ratings, making it safer for a variety of applications.
- Moisture Resistance: It won't rot, warp, or succumb to mold like gypsum or plywood, especially in wet areas.
- Strength and Impact Resistance: MagPanel is less prone to dents and damage, extending the lifespan of your structure.
- Insect and Pest Resistance: It's unattractive to termites and other pests.
- Versatility: MagPanel excels in walls, ceilings, subfloors, countertops, and even some exterior applications.
We recommend that you review our handy Return Shipping Guide to see the detailed steps to return your order.
MagPanel is easy to store and moisture-resistant. Here are the key points:
- Indoor Storage: Always store MagPanel indoors in a cool, dry location.
- Protect the Edges: Carry boards on their side to avoid damaging the edges.
- Stacking: Stack the boards flat on raised supports (like dunnage or spare wood) to keep them off the ground and prevent bowing. Avoid stacking heavy materials on top of the MagPanel.
- Acclimation: Before installation, allow the boards to acclimate for at least 48 hours in the room where they'll be used. This helps them adjust to the temperature and humidity.
Magnesium Oxide boards may be more expensive upfront than some traditional materials like gypsum, but their durability and resistance properties can lead to cost savings over time.
Yes, we may be able to accommodate this, but please note that we may still apply a small shipping and handling fee to your order. Please reach out to your sales representative for details.
For standalone subflooring, we strongly recommend 3/4-inch (19mm) MagPanel. Here's why:
- Strength and Stability: This thickness provides superior rigidity and support, minimizing deflection and creating a solid base for your final flooring.
- Durability: 3/4-inch MagPanel stands up to the wear and tear of everyday living.
- Ease of Installation: While slightly heavier than thinner options, 3/4-inch panels are still manageable for most DIYers and contractors.
The links to the policies below can also be found in the footer of our website, and we encourage all customers to review these policies before purchasing.
Absolutely! MagPanel aligns well with green building practices for several reasons:
- Natural Ingredients: Primarily made from magnesium oxide and magnesium sulfate (Epsom salts), which are abundant minerals.
- Low-Impact Production: The manufacturing process requires less energy and produces fewer emissions than traditional cement or gypsum board production.
- Durability: MagPanel's resistance to moisture, fire, and mold means less need for replacements, reducing waste over time.
- Recyclable: It's 100% recyclable at specific facilities, making it a responsible choice at the end of its lifespan.
Magnesium Oxide boards are considered to have low to no off-gassing, making them a safer alternative in terms of indoor air quality compared to some other building materials.
They require minimal maintenance, but surfaces should be kept dry and inspected regularly for any signs of damage or wear.
Yes, their moisture-resistant properties make them ideal for use in high humidity areas, protecting against mold, mildew, and water damage.
Standard metal or wood framing can be used, but it's important to ensure that the frame is sturdy enough to support the weight and rigidity of the boards.
They offer good sound insulation properties, making them suitable for use in walls and ceilings where noise reduction is desired.
While they are strong and durable, Magnesium Oxide boards are not typically used as a structural element in load-bearing applications without additional support.
Yes, they are resistant to termites and other pests, providing an additional benefit in termite-prone areas.
Absolutely! We’ve shipped our products to such far-flung locations as Guam, Kenya, Tanzania, Bahrain, Great Britain, Kuwait, France, Mexico, Canada, Hawaii, and many more. Please note that international shipments may require you to procure the services of a freight forwarder at the port of discharge; most port authorities can provide recommendations for reputable freight forwarders that service your home port. Also, minimum order quantities may apply to some countries. Call your Ambient representative today at (866) 710-7070 for shipping quotes to your country!
Yes, we do provide discounts for large quantity orders. If your order falls into a category below, please reach out to our customer support team at (866) 710-7070 to see what discounts are currently available:
- Flooring orders over 1,000 sq ft
- Plywood orders over 25 sheets
- Magpanel orders over 100 sheets
At Ambient, we value the brave men and women that serve in our nation's armed forces and law enforcement agencies. We offer a 5% discount off all products for active-duty members of our U.S. armed forces and full-time local and state law enforcement. Clearance items and odd lots do not qualify for this discount and it cannot be combined with other promotions. Call (866) 710-7070 for additional details.
For flooring and plywood we strongly recommend ordering a sample before placing your final order, so you can ensure that the shading will be to your liking. Our flooring and plywood samples have a dye lot number sticker on the back of them. Our website checkout process will ask you to type in this dye lot number before final payment; alternatively, if ordering via email or over the phone simply mention this lot number to your Ambient representative and we will update the order with it and ship that exact lot number. If we don't have that lot number available (it has sold out) but we have a matching lot, we will ship the matching lot. If we do not have a matching lot, we will not ship your order until you approve samples of the new lot.
Please remember that photographs on our website are taken from a variety of devices and under many different lighting conditions, and are viewed on a wide range of computer monitors and contrast settings, thus we do not guarantee that any floor will match the photographs on the website. If you order your flooring sight unseen (without receiving samples first), Ambient is not responsible for light or shading variation or differences and thus not responsible for return shipping costs (which can be expensive and can vary greatly depending on where you live and the size of your order).
If you receive the order from the exact lot number you requested, or you order sight unseen (you do not provide a dye lot number at checkout), and you decide after it arrives that you want to return the order, you will be responsible for return shipping charges. For flooring orders, please see our 30 Day Money-Back Guarantee for more information.
For legal businesses that qualify as a trade account (must be in the building trades), or you plan to order more than $10,000 cumulatively in building materials in the future on multiple projects, we encourage you to apply for a trade account on our B2B page. Our wholesale discounts vary depending on sales volume and can range from 5% to 35% off our retail prices. We also offer container level pricing for large projects at extremely competitive prices, and can manufacture a large array of products not featured on our website such as custom thicknesses, lengths, widths, colors and surface treatments (minimum order quantities apply).
