How to Install Magnesium Wall Board in Classrooms: Easy Steps for School Projects

Did you know magnesium wall board can resist fire for up to 2 hours and help you save 55% on repair costs?

The right materials make all the difference to safety and durability as you renovate or build classroom spaces. MgO boards give you unmatched resistance to water, mold, and pests. These boards keep their structural integrity intact for years. The boards can handle major humidity swings - they stay strong even after absorbing four times more water as relative humidity jumps from 50% to 80%.

Our experience with magnesium oxide board installations across many educational facilities has led to a simple approach that works for everyone, even those new to construction. While MgO boards install much like regular drywall, you need to know a few key differences to get the best results.

This piece walks you through every step of putting up magnesium boards in classrooms - from picking the right materials to adding those finishing touches. These guidelines ensure your school project hits all safety marks and stays within budget, whether you're updating old spaces or building new ones.

Step 1: Understand What Magnesium Wall Board Is

Magnesium wall board stands out as a breakthrough in construction materials. It offers strength, durability, and safety features that leave traditional building products far behind. You should know exactly what you're working with before starting your classroom installation.

Magnesium oxide board (MgO board) is a composite cementitious material made from magnesium oxide. This mineral creates exceptionally strong bonds between magnesium and oxygen atoms. Manufacturers mix it with magnesium sulfate, perlite for lightness, wood fiber or cellulose for flexibility, and fiberglass mesh for reinforcement. The final product comes as a light gray, white, or beige board accessible to more people in various sizes and thicknesses.

What makes MgO boards different from drywall

MgO boards and traditional drywall have several key differences:

Superior fire resistance: MgO boards earn an A1 non-combustible classification and can handle temperatures up to 1200°C without visible flames. Standard drywall offers limited fire protection with a maximum fire rating of just 1 hour.

Exceptional moisture resistance: MgO boards' ability to maintain structural integrity after long water exposure stands out. Lab tests show they work perfectly even after 72 hours underwater. These boards absorb only 0.34% moisture compared to regular gypsum boards at 3%. Unlike drywall that becomes soft and breaks down when wet, magnesium boards stay strong without warping, rotting, or growing mold. This makes them perfect for classrooms where spills and humidity happen often.

Remarkable strength: MgO boards are stronger than Portland cement panels and resist fastener pullout better. They weigh 20-30% less than other cement-based boards, which makes installation easier in schools.

Environmental benefits: MgO boards beat drywall in eco-friendliness. Their inorganic materials don't release toxins during manufacturing or disposal. You can also recycle them completely, which reduces their environmental impact.

Longevity: MgO boards resist water, mold, and structural damage, so they last much longer than drywall or plywood. This durability means fewer repairs and replacements, which saves money over time.

Where magnesium oxide boards are commonly used

MgO boards' versatility has led to their adoption in many applications:

Interior applications: These boards work great as wall panels, ceiling boards, and subflooring. Their fire resistance makes them perfect for fire-rated walls in schools with strict safety codes. The boards' sound insulation properties also make them ideal for classroom partitions and quiet areas like libraries and music rooms.

Exterior applications: You can use the same MgO board inside and outside, unlike many other building materials. Builders often use them for exterior wall sheathing, fascias, soffits, and trim work. They hold up well against weather, moisture, and salt in buildings across different climates.

Specialized uses: MgO boards provide an excellent base for tile in bathrooms and kitchens. Their noise-reduction qualities make them valuable in studios, theaters, and libraries. Schools working on "green" building projects can use these boards as an eco-friendly option that creates healthier indoor spaces.

High-demand environments: These boards excel in humid areas like bathrooms and kitchens. They work particularly well in humid climates or facilities with pools and locker rooms because they resist moisture and mold growth.

Everything in magnesium wall board covered here will help your classroom installation achieve the best results for safety, durability, and performance.

Step 2: Gather the Right Tools and Materials

A smooth installation of magnesium wall board starts with the right tools and materials. Good preparation will give you an easier workflow and a safer, longer-lasting classroom installation.

Essential tools for cutting and mounting

MgO boards need specific tools that are different from what you'd use with regular drywall. You'll need these tools to cut the boards precisely:

·       A carbide-tipped scoring knife to cut thinner MgO boards (3-6mm thickness)

·       A dust-reducing circular saw with a carbide-tipped blade works best for thicker boards

·       Fiber cement shears make accurate cuts, especially around fixtures

·       A standard drill helps pre-drill and secure boards

·       A utility knife with retractable blade works for minor adjustments

·       A spirit level helps you get proper alignment

The right fasteners are vital to secure your magnesium wall boards. Rust-resistant screws give lasting strength and prevent deterioration over time. Self-tapping, countersunk screws with coarse threads work best for MgO board installation. Place fasteners about 200mm apart along the perimeter and 300mm in field areas for the best support.

MgO panels behave much like wood-based panels - you won't need special equipment. This makes them perfect for school projects where construction expertise might be limited.

Recommended safety gear for school environments

Safety comes first when working with construction materials in educational settings. MgO boards create fine dust during cutting, so you need proper protection:

N95-rated dust masks or respirators are a must when cutting magnesium boards. Dust control becomes even more important in schools where air quality affects many people.

Complete safety protection needs safety glasses to protect your eyes, work gloves for sharp edges, and ear protection with power tools. Long sleeves and pants help reduce skin exposure to dust particles.

Cut boards outdoors or in well-ventilated areas to reduce airborne particles. Tools with dust collection systems help minimize dust exposure. This becomes even more important in classroom environments where students or staff might be nearby.

Choosing the right type of MgO board

MgO boards come in different types and thicknesses for specific uses. Standard MgO boards work well for general construction, while fire-rated boards boost classroom safety.

Two main types of magnesium boards exist: magnesium sulfate (MgSO₄) boards and magnesium chloride (MgCl₂) boards. Magnesium sulfate boards have gained popularity because they stay stable and reliable, especially in humid classroom environments.

Most MgO boards come in standard 4ft × 8ft sheets with thicknesses from 6mm to 20mm. Boards between 8-12mm thick usually give the best mix of durability and weight for classroom walls.

These key factors matter when picking boards for your project:

·       Moisture resistance needs (especially near sinks or water fountains)

·       Fire rating requirements (based on local building codes for schools)

·       Sound insulation properties (to reduce noise between classrooms)

·       Weight limits of your existing wall structure

"Interior grade" MgO boards work best for classroom walls. They're made specifically for indoor spaces where fire resistance and air quality matter most. These boards offer excellent fire protection and resist moisture, creating safer learning spaces that need less upkeep.

Step 3: Prepare the Classroom Walls

A well-laid-out classroom wall serves as the foundation of a successful magnesium wall board installation. The wall preparation phase determines how well your MgO boards stick and last. Time spent on this crucial step will pay off in the quality and durability of your finished product.

Inspecting and cleaning the surface

You need a full picture of the mounting surface before installing magnesium oxide boards. Let's get into the entire wall area to spot structural issues that might affect your installation:

·       Check carefully to find cracks, holes, or uneven spots that could make boards unstable

·       Look for moisture damage or signs where water might have gotten in

·       Spot any nails, screws, or fasteners sticking out

·       Make sure framing is level and studs stay straight and square for proper fastening

Once you complete the inspection, fix any issues you found. Repair damaged spots, take out protruding objects, and make sure the surface stays structurally sound. The next step is a deep clean.

Your magnesium board surfaces should be completely free of dirt, dust, and grease before installation. This isn't just about looks—it's crucial to proper adhesion. A vacuum works great to remove loose debris, especially around joints and corners. For tough grime or sticky residue, wipe the surface with a slightly damp cloth.

We avoided strong chemicals during cleaning since they can mess with adhesives or fasteners. On top of that, it's important the wall surface dries completely before moving forward, since extra moisture leads to warping or mold over time. You might need a dehumidifier to speed up drying in humid spaces.

A spirit level helps find any remaining high or low spots that could impact your installation. Sand down high areas and fill low spots with the right leveling compound to create an even surface. This careful prep ensures your magnesium boards will sit flat without gaps or bumps.

Marking layout lines for accurate placement

The installation process becomes smoother with accurate measurements and clear wall markings. Good planning helps you avoid wasting materials and ensures professional results.

Start by measuring every wall area where you'll put magnesium boards. Write down these measurements exactly - they'll guide how you cut and place boards. Most times, you'll mark both horizontal and vertical lines to show board positions.

A pencil or chalk works well to put measurements on the wall. Mark corner points first, then connect them with a laser level or spirit level to get perfectly straight lines. These guidelines become your installation map and help keep everything properly arranged throughout the project.

The best way to plan board placement minimizes waste and unnecessary cuts. It's smart to put cut edges against room perimeters whenever possible. Note that you should leave about 1/8 inch gap between boards and perimeter walls for natural expansion.

Your layout should space boards evenly so they fit tightly against each other. Mark each board's position to see the complete layout before cutting. This helps you spot potential issues early.

Take time to check all measurements again before moving to the cutting stage. This quick verification saves materials and time by preventing mistakes. Don't forget to mark spots for outlets, switches, or fixtures that need special cuts in your magnesium boards.

A thorough prep job and precise marking create the groundwork for smooth installation. These first steps might take extra time, but they're crucial to achieving professional results with your magnesium wall board project.

Step 4: Cut and Fit the Magnesium Boards

The quality and efficiency of your classroom installation project depends on how accurately you cut magnesium wall board. You'll need precise measurements and proper cutting techniques to make boards fit perfectly, minimize waste, and maintain safety.

How to measure and score MgO boards

Accurate cuts start with precise measurements. Take your tape measure and get the exact dimensions of where the board will go. A straightedge or T-square will help you mark clear, straight lines on the MgO board that guide your cuts.

Your board's thickness determines the best cutting method:

1.     Boards 8mm or thinner need the score and snap method. Take a utility knife or carbide-tipped scoring knife and score along your marked line several times. Make sure you apply steady pressure to cut through the fiberglass mesh. The board should snap cleanly at the score line when you press it down.

2.     Thicker boards (10mm and up) need a circular saw with a carbide-tipped blade. Set the blade just a bit deeper than the board's thickness to get clean cuts. Let the saw hit full speed before you start cutting and keep steady pressure as you go.

3.     A jigsaw works best when you need curved cuts or intricate shapes.

Your magnesium board needs a stable, flat surface before you start cutting. Large boards should rest on sawhorses or a workbench to prevent sagging that leads to uneven cuts or breaks. A quick light sanding or filing after cutting smooths rough edges and helps panels fit together better.

Tips for cutting around outlets and fixtures

Getting precise cuts around outlets, switches, and fixtures isn't complicated if you know what you're doing. Start by marking the exact spot and size of the outlet or fixture on your board. These measurements need a double-check - it's better to measure twice than cut wrong.

Making outlet openings starts with a pilot hole in the middle of your marked area. This gives your cutting tool a starting point and helps prevent cracks. A hole saw attached to a good electric drill creates perfect circular cutouts.

Larger or irregular openings follow these steps:

·       Mark the full outline of the opening

·       Drill your center hole

·       Cut from center to edges with a jigsaw

·       Take out waste pieces from the front

Advanced cutting tools designed for cement board materials work best. Hammers and impact tools can crack or split your magnesium oxide boards, so they're off-limits.

The smart approach is to make all your cut-outs before you install the board. This gives you better control and protects installed sections from damage.

Complex shapes? Try making a cardboard template first. You can test the fit without risking your MgO board, and this saves materials in the long run.

Note that dust management is crucial while cutting. Work in a space with good ventilation or use dust collection systems, and don't forget your safety gear to protect yourself from magnesium oxide particles.

Step 5: Install the Boards Securely

The right installation of magnesium wall boards will give you lasting durability, strong structure, and the best performance in classroom settings. You need proper installation techniques to avoid problems like warping, moisture damage, and loose fasteners down the line.

Fastening methods for different wall types

Your classroom's wall structure determines which fasteners and attachment methods you'll need. Wood studs work best with #8 flat head screws that have high/low threads and a sharp drill point. Metal studs need either #8 flat head screws with nibs under the head to countersink and self-drill (for 18-gage or heavier metal), or pneumatic fasteners if you're working with lighter gage metal.

Standard screws can break down over time when they touch magnesium oxide boards, so you'll need corrosion-resistant fasteners. Your best options are 316-stainless steel fasteners or ceramic coated ones made specifically for cement board products.

Here's what you need to know about fastener placement:

4.     Keep fasteners at least 4 inches from corners

5.     Space perimeter fasteners 6 inches apart

6.     Space center fasteners 12 inches apart

7.     Place fasteners approximately 9/16 inch from board edges

8.     Never install fasteners at 45-degree angles

Start fastening from one side and work your way systematically across the board. This reduces stress on the material. If you're installing resilient flooring over MgO boards in your classroom, fill any seams with polyurea or modified epoxy seam filler. Sand until flush to prevent "telegraphing" (visible joint lines) on the finished surface.

Make sure your magnesium board edges sit right on framing members with at least 15mm overlap width. Leave about 1/8 inch between perimeter walls and your boards to allow natural expansion. Sink screws slightly (0.5-1mm) into the board surface without cutting through the fiberglass mesh.

Sealing joints and edges to prevent moisture issues

After securing your boards, sealing joints becomes crucial to keep moisture out. Put fiberglass mesh tape over all board joints to strengthen connections and prevent future cracking. The tape should be centered over each joint with equal stick to both boards next to it.

You'll need three distinct layers for proper joint compound application:

·       First layer: Press level with the board surface

·       Second layer: Extend 50mm from joint edge

·       Final layer: Smooth and level, extending another 50mm beyond the previous layer

Let each layer dry completely before adding the next one, based on what the manufacturer says. Once the final layer dries, sand lightly until you get a perfectly even surface with the board. Cut edges need special attention - extend each compound layer coverage by an extra 100mm for better reinforcement and durability.

Avoiding common installation mistakes

Some mistakes can ruin your magnesium wall board installation. Don't overtighten screws - this makes them less effective and can damage the board. Driving screws too deep is another no-no, as it weakens their grip.

Picking the wrong fasteners is a common error. Non-corrosion-resistant fasteners can lead to deterioration, staining, and weak spots over time. Pick MgO boards with low chloride content and use stainless steel or specially coated fasteners to stop metal corrosion.

Your magnesium boards need time to adjust before installation. Give them at least 48 hours to get used to their new environment. This prevents future warping, expansion, and contraction issues. Keep your classroom between 5°C and 35°C with steady humidity throughout the process.

Protect your MgO boards from getting wet before they're properly sealed. These boards resist moisture naturally, but they still need protection during installation. Seal any exposed edges right after installation with a quality edge sealer or MgO-specific primer. This creates a barrier that improves moisture resistance and makes the boards last longer.

Step 6: Finish and Inspect the Installation

Your magnesium wall board installation needs proper finishing steps to last longer and look better. A close eye on details during this final phase will protect your investment.

Applying primer or paint if needed

The right primer creates an even base for MgO boards. Pick an acrylic-based primer that works with magnesium oxide boards. A roller or brush helps you apply the primer evenly for complete coverage. Classroom sinks and other high-moisture areas might need a waterproof sealant on top.

Before you start the main work, test the adhesion on a small patch. Let the primer dry, make an X-cut with a razor, stick masking tape firmly, and pull it off quickly. A compatible product will stay attached to the surface.

Final safety and quality checks

A full inspection should include:

·       Looking at each board for warping or bending

·       Comparing finished areas with your original plan

·       Finding cracks or gaps in joints and seams

·       Making sure screw heads don't stick out

Cleaning up the workspace

Your MgO boards need regular cleaning with a damp cloth or sponge. The finish can get damaged by harsh chemicals or abrasive tools, so avoid them. Keep an eye on the boards and fix small issues quickly before they turn into bigger problems.

Conclusion

MgO wall boards are an excellent choice to renovate classrooms because they're incredibly durable and safe. This piece walks you through the complete installation process. You'll learn about MgO boards' unique properties and how to secure them for lasting results.

These boards work better than traditional materials by a lot. They resist fire for up to 2 hours, handle moisture well, and stay structurally sound. This makes them perfect for schools where safety comes first. They're also eco-friendly and last longer, which helps save money - something every school's budget needs.

The way you install magnesium wall boards affects how well they work. Doing this and being organized helps your classroom installation meet safety standards. The boards will hold up well against daily school activities. Good surface prep, precise cutting, and the right fastening methods all lead to great results.

Schools get huge benefits from magnesium boards. The boards fight off mold and mildew, which means better air quality for students and staff. The material's natural strength and damage resistance also mean lower maintenance costs.

It's worth mentioning that details matter during installation. Take time with measurements, use the right tools, and follow the sealing guidelines. You'll get a professional finish that lasts for years. The work might seem tough at first, but magnesium wall boards' long-term benefits in classrooms are definitely worth it.

We've done many school installations this way, and this is a big deal as it means that they always work better than expected. Your new magnesium wall boards will create safer, tougher classroom spaces and cut down on maintenance costs - that's a real win for schools.