The Gypsum Association (GA) announced the release of two web-based applications devoted to the proper specification, installation, storage, and use of specialized performance gypsum panel products. Research conducted by the Gypsum Association reveals awareness and understanding of specialized performance panels among architects, specifiers and other A/E/C professionals is less than optimal. Covering both commercial and multi-family structures, these new additions to the GA website are aimed at addressing that information gap by providing essential, yet impartial, information in one place.

Although gypsum wallboard has dominated interior wall construction for more than half a century, this cost-efficient, easy-to-install building material has experienced continuous development and enhancement. The gypsum panel product family now includes boards with features such as improved fire-resistance, increased surface durability, extended weatherability, and an ever-widening list of application-specific, specialty performance characteristics. The performance panels highlighted on gypsum.org are manufactured by all GA member companies and include exterior gypsum sheathing, abuse resistant and impact resistant gypsum panels, mold/moisture resistant panels, and gypsum shaftliner. 

"Since 1930, the GA has been dedicated to promoting the use of gypsum and advancing the general welfare of the gypsum industry on behalf of our member companies, which encompass wallboard manufacturers in the United States and Canada," says Executive Director Stephen H. Meima, APR, LEED Green Assoc. "Compared to traditional drywall, specialized performance gypsum panels are relatively new. Educating the A/E/C community on these multi-attribute performance products is an important contribution to the design and construction value chain." 

Each performance panel type is illustrated in situ, with physical description, advantages, and limitations noted. Answers to frequently asked questions are supplied for each performance board. Citations and links to all pertinent ASTM Standards and GA technical and code referenced documents are provided. In addition, a new section on the basics of sound control addresses an increasingly important and code referenced aspect of indoor environmental quality. The acoustics section emphasizes system solutions to sound attenuation recognizing that no single material or structural component can provide the entire solution realistically or cost efficiently.

"Today, gypsum panel products are a component part of both interior and exterior architectural systems," says GA Director of Technical Services Michael Schmeida, MSc, LEED AP. "When specified and installed properly, special-performance gypsum panels contribute resilience, functionality, and value to projects."

Commercial and Multi-family web applications are accessible from the homepage of the Gypsum Association's website at www.gypsum.org.