Beyond the Standard: MgO Underlayment
Evaluating Performance from Testing to Installation
Sponsored by Huber Engineered Woods | Presented by David Welter and Ben Richardson
Live Webinar Airing on December 3, 2026 at 02:00 PM ET
Magnesium oxide (MgO) underlayment panels continue to evolve through new testing methods, product evaluations, and field experience. This course explores how architects and specifiers can evaluate MgO underlayment products using product evaluation reports, structural performance data, and code compliance documentation. Participants will review key structural performance measures, including compression and dowel bearing strength, and discuss how these results can inform design decisions. Real-world multifamily project examples will highlight lessons learned during design and construction. Installation practices that support successful project outcomes will also be reviewed. By connecting testing, evaluation, field application, and installation, this course provides a practical framework for evaluating MgO underlayment systems in multifamily construction.
Photo courtesy of Huber Engineered Woods LLC
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David Welter is a Senior Product Manager for Huber Engineered Woods. Huber Engineered Woods is the building solutions company responsible for the AdvanTech®️, ZIP System®️, and EXACOR®️ brands. A graduate of Auburn University, Welter has more than 14 years of experience across product management, marketing, and commercial roles and is responsible for supporting innovation, commercialization, and portfolio development for the EXACOR®️ brand. His work focuses primarily on multifamily and light commercial construction markets, as well as supporting education for architects and construction professionals. |
Building products innovator Huber Engineered Woods LLC has a reputation built on consistent product performance and commitment to people. Fueled by on-the-jobsite analysis and building science principles, AdvanTech®️ subflooring, ZIP System®️ building enclosure and EXACOR®️ magnesium oxide products solutions have changed the way construction teams build better buildings. ZIP System®️ building enclosures integrate air and water-resistive barriers into the sheathing, simplifying installation while offering superior moisture management and structural durability. AdvanTech®️ subflooring is valued for its exceptional strength, stiffness, and moisture resistance, providing a solid foundation that supports design flexibility and long-term performance. EXACOR®️ MgO underlayment delivers streamlined fire resistance, sound control, and installation efficiency, making it an ideal alternative to traditional gypsum underlayment in multifamily and light commercial construction. With headquarters in Charlotte, NC and manufacturing facilities in Maine, Georgia, Virginia, Tennessee and Oklahoma and a national sales team of over 100 members, Huber Engineered Woods provides specialty building materials to residential, multifamily, and light commercial projects nationwide, through a national network of lumberyard and distribution partners. Visit huberwood.com to learn more.
Originally published in Architectural Record
Originally published in October 2026
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
- Explain how product evaluation reports support code compliance and design decisions.
- Identify key structural performance measures, including compression and dowel bearing strength.
- Review lessons learned from multifamily projects using MgO underlayment.
- Describe installation practices that support underlayment performance.
