Overview of MGO Board
Magnesium Oxide (MGO) board — also known as MgO board or magnesium oxide panel — is a building sheet material manufactured primarily from magnesium oxide, magnesium chloride, and a reinforcing mesh. The result is a rigid panel that is stronger, lighter, and more durable than traditional materials such as OSB, drywall, or cement board.
MagSheathing™ MGO boards are engineered for the demands of modern construction: fire-resistant enough for commercial applications, moisture-resistant enough for bathrooms and basements, and eco-friendly enough to satisfy green building standards.
Composition & Manufacturing
Each MagSheathing™ panel consists of several layers:
- Core: A mixture of magnesium oxide (MgO) and magnesium chloride (MgCl₂) forms the dense, rigid core.
- Reinforcement: Woven fiberglass mesh embedded on both sides provides tensile strength and prevents cracking.
- Additives: Perlite, fly-ash-free fillers, and other natural compounds enhance performance without toxins.
- Surface: A smooth, paintable surface accepts virtually any finish material.
The manufacturing process uses far less energy than Portland cement production and generates minimal waste. Unlike gypsum or OSB, MGO production does not require the use of formaldehyde binders or harmful chemical treatments.
A Brief History of MGO
Magnesium oxide has been used as a building material for thousands of years. Ancient Chinese builders used it in construction dating back over 4,000 years. In modern construction, MGO boards first gained widespread adoption in Asia and Europe before becoming increasingly popular in North America as builders sought fire-resistant, eco-friendly alternatives to gypsum and OSB.
Today, MGO is used in residential, commercial, and industrial construction worldwide — particularly in applications where fire resistance, moisture resistance, and sustainability are priorities.
Why MagSheathing™?
Not all MGO boards are equal. MagSheathing™ sources and quality-controls our panels to meet or exceed North American building standards. Every batch is tested for fire performance, moisture absorption, flexural strength, and surface hardness before it's offered to our customers.
We work directly with builders, contractors, architects, and developers across British Columbia and beyond to ensure the right product is specified for every application.