Magnesium Oxide (MgO) Floor Panels for Multifamily Buildings
Exploring magnesium oxide panels for fire resistance and acoustical performance in multifamily buildings
Sponsored by Huber Engineered Woods
All multifamily buildings must meet code requirements for fire-resistance between dwelling units and meet requirements for acoustical performance. This course looks more closely at designing and construction with MgO panels. We begin with a description of the material and its properties, and its code compliance characteristics related to fire resistance. The sound attenuation capabilities are also reviewed. It’s installation, particularly compared to we-laid gypsum underlayment, is presented. MgO panels are an option for the design of multifamily projects around the country.
Photo courtesy of Huber Engineered Woods
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.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
- Identify the physical characteristics of magnesium oxide (MgO) panels in term of their make-up and basic performance attributes for use in floor assemblies in multifamily projects.
- Investigate the fire-resistance capabilities and testing standards that demonstrate the ability for MgO panels to provide fire safety in buildings.
- Assess the acoustic capabilities of MgO panels in terms of meeting or exceeding code requirements for multifamily buildings on certain tested assemblies in dwelling separations.
- Compare and contrast the use of MgO structural panels with other floor underlayment options, particularly wet-laid gypsum, in order to specify MgO panels appropriately in multifamily floor assemblies.
