Prefabricated buildings rely on systems that are fast to assemble, structurally reliable, and compliant with strict fire regulations. Flooring components play a critical role in the overall performance of these systems — not only in terms of load-bearing capacity, but also fire safety, durability, and long-term stability.
This is where fiber cement boards stand out as a highly effective flooring solution for prefabricated and modular construction.
Strength and Stability for Prefabricated Floor Systems
Fiber cement boards are manufactured using a dense cement-based matrix reinforced with fibers, resulting in a material that is dimensionally stable and mechanically strong.
Unlike lightweight wood-based panels, fiber cement boards:
- Do not warp or deform easily
- Maintain their shape under varying temperature and humidity conditions
- Offer consistent performance across large surface areas
This stability is especially important in prefabricated buildings, where floor elements are often manufactured off-site and assembled quickly on-site.
Availability in Higher Thicknesses for Flooring Applications
One of the key reasons fiber cement boards are suitable for flooring is their availability in higher thickness options.
While thinner boards are commonly used for walls and facades, flooring-grade fiber cement boards are produced in thicknesses such as:
- 18 mm
- 20 mm
- 22 mm
- and, in some systems, even thicker
These higher thicknesses provide:
- Improved load-bearing capacity
- Better resistance to point loads
- Enhanced stiffness for spanning between joists or steel frames
This makes fiber cement boards well suited for use as:
- Structural floor sheathing
- Subfloor layers
- Flooring panels in modular units
A1 Fire Rating: A Major Advantage for Prefabricated Buildings
Fire safety is one of the most critical concerns in prefabricated construction. Many modern projects aim to design entirely non-combustible building systems, especially in multi-storey or high-occupancy buildings.
Fiber cement boards offer a major advantage in this area.
Non-combustible flooring component
Fiber cement boards achieve an A1 fire rating, meaning they are non-combustible and do not contribute to fire spread.
When used in flooring systems, this allows:
- The floor assembly to remain non-combustible
- Easier compliance with fire regulations
- Reduced need for additional fire-protection layers
In contrast, many traditional flooring boards contain organic materials that can compromise the fire classification of the entire system.
Creating Fully Non-Combustible Prefabricated Systems
In prefabricated buildings, every layer matters.
By using fiber cement boards for flooring, manufacturers can design systems where:
- Floors, walls, and facades are all non-combustible
- Fire performance is consistent throughout the building envelope
- Certification and approval processes become simpler
This is particularly valuable for:
- Modular residential buildings
- Student accommodation
- Hotels
- Public and commercial prefabricated structures
Moisture Resistance and Long-Term Durability
Flooring in prefabricated buildings must also handle:
- Construction moisture
- Transport exposure
- Long-term humidity changes
Fiber cement boards are resistant to:
- Rot
- Mold
- Moisture-related swelling
This makes them a reliable choice for prefabricated floor systems, especially when combined with proper detailing and floor finishes.
Compatibility with Various Floor Finishes
Another practical advantage is that fiber cement boards provide a stable base for many floor finishes, including:
- Vinyl flooring
- Tiles
- Laminate systems
- Carpet tiles
Their rigidity and smooth surface help prevent issues such as cracking, uneven finishes, or movement-related damage.
Ideal for Factory-Based Manufacturing
Prefabricated buildings are produced in controlled factory environments, and fiber cement boards fit well into this process.
They offer:
- Predictable cutting and installation
- Consistent quality from panel to panel
- Easy integration into automated or semi-automated production lines
This helps manufacturers maintain speed without compromising performance.
Conclusion
Fiber cement boards are not limited to facades and walls — they are also a highly effective flooring solution for prefabricated buildings.
Their availability in higher thicknesses (20 mm, 22 mm, and above) provides the strength needed for floor applications, while their A1 fire rating allows prefabricated systems to remain fully non-combustible.
Combined with durability, moisture resistance, and factory-friendly installation, fiber cement boards help prefabricated building manufacturers deliver safer, more reliable, and regulation-compliant flooring systems.
👉 Visit the Smartfiber Fiber Cement Board page to explore specs, sizes, and delivery options.
Authored by Smartcon Int’l. Trade & Marketing Ltd. on 19.12.2025. All rights reserved.