High-density Structural MgO Subfloor Panels (typically 18mm to 20 mm tongue-and-groove boards) can successfully replace wet-poured gypsum concrete underlayment (gyp-crete) in light gauge steel (LGS) multi-family acoustic floor assemblies—provided the system is engineered holistically to address impact sound transmission.
While gyp-crete has historically been the default material to add mass over steel joists or metal decking, replacing it with dry MgO panels delivers major structural and logistical advantages:
Performance & Structural Comparison
| Feature / Metric | Structural MgO Subfloor Panels | Traditional Gypsum Concrete |
| System Weight | ~22–26 kg/m² (18mm panel) | ~40–60 kg/m² (38 mm pour) |
| Dead Load Impact | Significantly lower (saves structural steel mass) | High dead load requirement |
| Installation Speed | Dry system; immediate trade access | Wet process; 7–14 days cure/dry time |
| Moisture / Mold | Impervious to moisture; zero rot/mold risk | Traps moisture; risks flooring failure if sealed early |
| Flexural Strength | High tensile & bending strength (≥16 MPa ) | Low tensile strength; prone to cracking without topping |
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NOV
2026
NOV
2026
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