"The biggest benefit we found was that we saved 2–3 weeks on our construction schedule by using this product."

Project Spotlight Quick Facts

• Builder: Trafalgar Homes
  
  
• Project Name: ALPS Cleburne
  
  
• Location: Cleburne, Texas
  
  
• Units: 266
  
  
• Framing Type: Wood-Framed Construction
  
  
• Project Type: Class A Garden-Style Multifamily

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 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

The ALPS Cleburne project is a clear example of how MAXTERRA® MgO Structural Floor Panels deliver measurable value at scale. By replacing gypcrete with a single-layer, non-combustible magnesium oxide flooring solution, Trafalgar Homes accelerated their schedule, reduced jobsite complexity, and avoided the moisture risks associated with traditional subfloor systems. For builders seeking high-performance MgO floors and structural subfloor alternatives, MAXTERRA® offers a better way to build.

Learn more about MAXTERRA® MgO Structural Floor Panels and Underlayment.