Magnesium oxide (MgO) boards are indeed water-resistant but not entirely waterproof. This means that while they can resist moisture, mold, and mildew, they are not designed for constant exposure to water or immersion.
Key Points:
1. Water Resistance: MgO boards are highly resistant to water and moisture, making them ideal for humid environments like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. When exposed to moisture, they maintain structural integrity without warping, swelling, or degrading. JP group MagMatrix BMSC 517 new sulfate MGO board with its 517 microstructure stabilization is water—and moisture-resistant and can be used for wet areas for the subfloor and sheathing. There is no need to be with WRB barriers laminated versus the OSB or plywood sheathing panel.
2. Formulation Differences:
Magnesium Chloride-based MgO Boards have initial water resistance but can absorb moisture over time, especially in humid conditions. This may lead to issues like "crying boards" (condensation on the surface), efflorescence, and potential corrosion of nearby metal components.
Magnesium Sulfate-based MgO Boards: These offer superior long-term water resistance, as magnesium sulfate is not hygroscopic (does not retain moisture). While they are more expensive due to higher-quality materials, they are preferred for moisture-prone areas to avoid problems like warping and structural degradation.
3. Mold and Mildew Resistance: MgO boards are inorganic, which makes them resistant to mold and mildew, unlike organic materials like plywood, which provide a food source for mold spores.
4. Comparison with Other Materials:
Plywood: Absorbs moisture, swells, and is prone to mold unless specially treated.
Gypsum Board: It has poor water resistance and easily warps and swells when exposed to moisture. Treated gypsum board somewhat resists water, but it’s not ideal for damp environments.
Fiber Cement Board offers similar water resistance to MgO but is heavier and more difficult to install. It is also strong and contains many silicons.
Magnesium sulfate-based MgO boards like JP group MagMatrix BMSC new sulfate MgO board provide excellent water resistance, making them ideal for moisture-prone areas. However, they are not waterproof, so proper sealing or treatment may be necessary for areas with direct water exposure.
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