Located in Cleburne, TX, Trafalgar Homes chose to Skip-The-Gyp® for this 266-unit wood-framed Class A garden-style multifamily project. Construction Superintendent Megan Leatherwood explained, “We wanted to eliminate the use of gypcrete from the project. The layout of the building was fairly complicated, and figuring out pump truck placement for gypcrete would have been a logistical headache. Using MAXTERRA® eliminated that problem entirely. One trade, no pumps, no cure time.”

MAXTERRA® MgO Non-Combustible Single Layer Structural Floor Panels were selected to replace wet-laid gypsum systems. The panels provide the structural strength, fire resistance, and sound performance required in multifamily construction. Installation is simple and familiar. Crews position each panel, apply adhesive, fasten it into place, and keep moving. This removes curing delays and keeps the project on schedule.

Builders like Trafalgar Homes are choosing to Skip-The-Gyp® by using MAXTERRA® 1/2 inch flooring underlayment panels over OSB or by installing MAXTERRA® 3/4 inch single-layer subfloor panels over wood trusses. Both approaches accelerate the schedule, reduce jobsite coordination, and avoid the moisture risks associated with traditional subfloor systems.

Q&A with Megan Leatherwood, Construction Superintendent at Trafalgar Homes

Why did you choose MAXTERRA® MgO Structural Floor Panels as a gypcrete alternative for this multifamily project?

We wanted to eliminate the use of gypcrete from the project. The layout of the building was fairly complicated, and figuring out pump truck placement for gypcrete would have been a logistical headache. Using MAXTERRA® eliminated that problem entirely — one trade, no pumps, no cure time. We were also looking to simplify the subfloor process, and MAXTERRA® allowed us to avoid bringing in a secondary trade. These magnesium oxide boards gave us the strength and simplicity of a structural panel without the added weight or complexity.

What was the biggest benefit you saw from using MAXTERRA®?

The biggest benefit we found was that we saved 2–3 weeks on our construction schedule by using this product. Eliminating curing time and streamlining labor coordination made a significant impact.

How did the installation go?

Once the crew dialed in their material staging, handling techniques, and how to place walk-boards on the framing, it installed quickly and smoothly.

How did the material perform in the field?

We had quite a bit of rain on this project, and the MAXTERRA® MgO boards held up without issue. We would have definitely been replacing a lot of OSB due to swelling and warping if we had gone that route. The durability was excellent, especially compared to OSB. In the areas where the panels were properly framed, fastened, and supported, we didn’t see any damage from carts loaded with drywall, granite, or cabinets.

How did MAXTERRA® impact labor coordination?

We were able to streamline the process and use one trade instead of two to complete the subfloor. That alone made a noticeable difference in both scheduling and coordination..

How would you compare the overall project cost?

Material costs were comparable, but with the time savings, single-trade install, and fewer post-installation issues, the overall value was significantly better.

How did the flooring installation go?

We used vinyl plank and VCT flooring for this project. To prep the floors, we just did a thorough cleaning and scraped and buffed them to get ready for the flooring application. We used a bag mix compound to float and level the panel joints before adhering the flooring to the subfloor.

Did you experience any issues with the flooring adhesives or leveling compounds bonding to the MAXTERRA® panels?

No, we didn’t have any issues with product compatibility. The products bonded to the MAXTERRA® panels very well.

Did you experience any issues with the flooring adhesives or leveling compounds bonding to the MAXTERRA® panels?

No, we didn’t have any issues with product compatibility. The products bonded to the MAXTERRA® panels very well.

Q&A with Megan Leatherwood, Construction Superintendent at Trafalgar Homes

Why did you choose MAXTERRA® MgO Structural Floor Panels as a gypcrete alternative for this multifamily project?

We wanted to eliminate the use of gypcrete from the project. The layout of the building was fairly complicated, and figuring out pump truck placement for gypcrete would have been a logistical headache. Using MAXTERRA® eliminated that problem entirely — one trade, no pumps, no cure time. We were also looking to simplify the subfloor process, and MAXTERRA® allowed us to avoid bringing in a secondary trade. These magnesium oxide boards gave us the strength and simplicity of a structural panel without the added weight or complexity.

Q&A with Megan Leatherwood, Construction Superintendent at Trafalgar Homes

Why did you choose MAXTERRA® MgO Structural Floor Panels as a gypcrete alternative for this multifamily project?

We wanted to eliminate the use of gypcrete from the project. The layout of the building was fairly complicated, and figuring out pump truck placement for gypcrete would have been a logistical headache. Using MAXTERRA® eliminated that problem entirely — one trade, no pumps, no cure time. We were also looking to simplify the subfloor process, and MAXTERRA® allowed us to avoid bringing in a secondary trade. These magnesium oxide boards gave us the strength and simplicity of a structural panel without the added weight or complexity.