MALCOLM PIRNIE, INC.

GENERAL INFORMATION BULLETIN1

DOCUMENT NUMBER 09 26 16gib
GYPSUM BOARD ASSEMBLIES REVISION NO. 2 11/30/2009

GENERAL

This General Information Bulletin (GIB) and its associated Section 09 26 16, Gypsum
Board Assemblies, includes gypsum board, trim, and joint treatments commonly used in
building construction, including:

• Various types of interior wall and ceiling gypsum board.

• Various types of exterior wall, ceiling and soffit gypsum board.
• Various types of tile backing boards.
• Sound attenuation blankets.
• Joint reinforcement and finish systems.
• Textured finishes.
• Sealant system for the restriction of air, sound or smoke passage through joints.
• Auxiliary materials, trim, and fasteners.

Gypsum board assemblies may meet the requirements of LEED Credits MR 2.1 and MR
2.2 for construction waste management; MR 4.1 and 4.2 for recycle content; MR 5.1 and
MR 5.2 for local/regional materials; and EQ 4.1 and 4.2 low emitting adhesives. Refer to
Section 01 35 63, Sustainable Certification Project Requirements, and its associated
General Information Bulletin for information on the LEED process and credits.

Before using this Section, read Malcolm Pirnie’s Non-structural Component Seismic
Procedure documents and related appendices on the Malcolm Pirnie Intranet at
http://intranet.malcolmpirnie.com/Seismic/welcome.cfm. Under certain conditions,
gypsum board ceilings could require special seismic and vibration controls, based on the
model International Building Code. Consult with the project’s structural engineer to
determine if special seismic and vibration controls are required.

1
This General Information Bulletin was developed from ARCOM’s MasterSpec – Evaluations series,
Section 09250 – Gypsum Board, published and distributed by Architectural Computer Services, Inc.
(ARCOM) for the AIA. The complete text of this “MasterSpec – Evaluations” document can be obtained
from Malcolm Pirnie’s Standard Construction Documents Project Team . This document also includes
referenced standards, references, and listed manufacturers, with websites.

WSPEC09 09 26 16gib-1
Other Products and Other Uses

• Non-load-bearing steel framing is specified in Section 09 22 16, Non-Structural

Metal Framing.
• Exterior insulation and finish system is specified in Section 07 24 00, Exterior
Insulation and Finish System.

PRODUCT EVALUATIONS

General Characteristics

Spacing of framing members that support gypsum board must consider requirements
other than on loading. Spacing limitations for both single- and double-layer gypsum
panel applications are tabulated in ASTM C754 according to the panel thickness.
Installing panels vertically or horizontally to partition framing and perpendicular or
parallel to ceiling framing affects the support spacing requirements. Closer-than-normal
spacing improves visual flatness and impact resistance. For steel studs, placing studs so
flanges point in the same direction and attaching leading edges or ends of each gypsum
board to open (unsupported) edges of stud flanges first also improves visual flatness. For
a detail discussion of non-load-bearing steel framing review the General Information
Bulletin associated with Section 09 22 16, Non-Structural Metal Framing.

Double-layer gypsum board applications are stronger and have greater fire and sound-
transmission resistance than single-layer applications. Adhesively applying a face layer
improves the resistance to cracking, sagging, and joint deformation and minimizes
exposed fasteners but may be unacceptable for fire-resistance-rated assemblies. Malcolm
Pirnie recommends double-layer gypsum board applications for all conditions.

Mechanical fastening methods for attaching gypsum board to wood supports include
single nailing, double nailing, adhesive and nailing, and screw attachment (in the order of
increasing resistance to fastener popping). Because the electric screw gun is familiar to
most installers, screw attachment to wood has become common. Nail-fastening gypsum
board to 3/4-inch-thick wood furring applied across framing is not recommended
because, when framing flexes under hammer impact, previously driven nails can loosen.

Laminating gypsum board directly to concrete and masonry in lieu of furring is suitable
only for interior locations and certain substrate conditions; see manufacturers’ literature
and referenced installation standards.

Gypsum Board Products

ASTM C1396, Specification for Gypsum Board, was developed to replace several
existing standards, simplifying the reference time for engineers and manufacturers when
specifying numerous types of gypsum board. ASTM C1396 was developed by a task
group representing all U.S. gypsum-board manufacturers. ASTM C1396 covers the
following types of gypsum board:

WSPEC09 09 26 16gib-2
 • Gypsum wallboard.
• Pre-decorated gypsum board.
• Gypsum backing board and coreboard.
• Water-resistant gypsum backing board.
• Exterior gypsum soffit board.
• Gypsum sheathing board.
• Gypsum base for veneer plaster.
• Gypsum lath.
• Gypsum ceiling board.

Interior Gypsum Board

Gypsum board panels are available in over 20 types, in various thicknesses, edge
configurations and lengths. Before writing the Specification, determine type and
thickness selections on appearance, impact resistance, loading, framing spacing, number
of layers, field-applied finish, sound reduction, and fire-resistance requirements.

Gypsum board edge configuration affects the appearance of the finished assembly.
Gypsum panels are available with square edges and with long tapered edges and square
returns. Standard, regular-type board is available with long tapered edges and either
rounded or beveled returns for prefilling with setting-type joint compound. Treated joints
between tapered or prefilled beveled or rounded edges are less noticeable in completed
construction than treated joints between square edges. Prefilling beveled or rounded
edges increases joint strength, helps minimize joint imperfections, and compensates for
temperature and humidity extremes during and after construction. Prefilling joints also
increases cost because of the additional labor and joint compound required.

• Regular gypsum board, ASTM C1396 (Section 5) is available in 1/4-, 3/8-, and 1/2-
inch thicknesses, with 1/2-inch being the standard. Use 1/4- and 3/8-inch thicknesses
only for double-layer applications or single-layer applications over existing ceilings
and interior partitions.
• Fire-rated gypsum board has greater fire resistance than regular gypsum board and is
usually 5/8-inch thick, but is available in 1/2-inch thickness from some
manufacturers. Besides enhanced fire-resistive properties, Type X gypsum board is
heavier and stronger than regular gypsum board, which improves dimensional
stability, appearance, and resistance to sound transmission and abuse. Use Type X
panels combined with closer frame spacing to improve visual flatness and sag
resistance of wall and ceiling assemblies.
• Moisture and mold-resistant gypsum board have become increasingly popular after
large, destructive hurricanes in 2005. All the major drywall manufacturers have

WSPEC09 09 26 16gib-3
 developed products, including USG's “SHEETROCK Brand HUMITEK”, National
Gypsum's “XP Wallboard”, and G-P Gypsum's “DensArmor Interior Guard” panels.
• Abuse-resistant gypsum board is manufactured to have a greater resistance to surface
indentation from incidental impacts and through-penetration from blunt hard-body
impacts than standard, regular and Type X, board. Besides having enhanced abuse-
resistance properties, these panels are heavier and stronger than standard board,
which improves dimensional stability, appearance, and sound-transmission resistance.
• Acoustically enhanced gypsum board is used in the construction of high rated STC
wall assemblies. This 5/8-inch thick gypsum board consists of a layer of viscoelastic
damping polymer sandwiched between two pieces of enhanced high density mold
resistant gypsum board, providing constrained layer damping. This product is
currently produced only by National Gypsum.
• Flexible gypsum board with a 1/4-inch thick, regular-type core is a specialized
product designed for double-layer application on radius construction.
• Ceiling gypsum board is sag-resistant and is available in 1/2-inch thick panels. It is
advertised as having equivalent sag resistance to 5/8-inch thick, Type X gypsum
board. Some manufacturers recommend using it on ceilings where water-based
textures are applied.
• Foil-backed gypsum board has a reflective insulating value where an enclosed air
space of at least 3/4- inch is formed next to the foil. Typically, it is used on exterior
walls in cold climates where the foil provides a vapor retarder; however, the
membrane is interrupted at panel joints. It is not recommended for use in hot, humid
climates such as the southern Atlantic and Gulf coast areas of the United States.
Because foil resists the passage of moisture vapor, foil-backed gypsum panels are
unsuitable for applications where the backing can trap moisture within the board itself
or within the assembly. Do not use foil-backed gypsum panels as a base for tile or
other highly moisture-resistant wall coverings or for face layers of multilayer
applications. Laminating foil-backed panels is not recommended gypsum board
except for attaching to wood framing with adhesives approved by the manufacturer.

Gypsum Panels For Exterior Ceiling And Soffits

Exterior gypsum soffit board is a weather- and sag-resistant board designed for exterior
soffits and other locations indirectly exposed to the weather. It is available with a 1/2-
inch thick, regular-type core and 5/8-inch thick, Type X core. It should be painted
immediately after the joint compound finish coat has dried; coordinate these requirements
with Division 09 Sections on painting.

Glass-mat gypsum sheathing board is the generic term for “Dens-Glass Gold”, which is
currently produced only by G-P. The manufacturer recommends it as an alternative to
exterior gypsum soffit board. It has a gypsum core and a coated glass-fiber mat surface
to protect the core from moisture.

WSPEC09 09 26 16gib-4
Although the gypsum cores of exterior products are water resistant, they will soften over
time when exposed to water. Malcolm Pirnie recommends portland-cement-based plaster
finish system in lieu of using gypsum board products on the exterior.

Tile Backing Panels

In areas subject to wetting, water-resistant backing board, glass-mat water-resistant

backing panels, and cementitious backer units are suitable substrates for tile. Regular
gypsum board is a suitable substrate for wall tile not subject to wetting. When panels are
substrates for tile, the materials used to finish joints must be compatible with the tile
setting beds.

Water-resistant gypsum backing board has a treated core and facings to increase water
resistance; however, the gypsum core will soften and deteriorate over time when exposed
to moisture. It is intended as a substrate for wall tile with a fused impervious finish
(ceramic, plastic, or metal) set in adhesive and can be used in locations, such as tub and
shower enclosures, where tile is subject to intermittent wetting. The board itself should
not be exposed to direct water flow or used as a substrate in saunas, steam rooms, and
gang shower rooms. It also should not be applied over a vapor retarder. Water-resistant
board is paintable.

• ASTM C840 and GA-216, Application and Finishing of Gypsum Board,

recommend installing water-resistant panels with a 1/4-inch open space between
the panels and other construction or penetrations. Manufacturers recommend
treating exposed cut edges with sealant or thinned tile mastic. See manufacturers’
literature for product limitations.
• Generally, do not specify water-resistant panels for ceiling applications because
these panels sag. However, ASTM C840 and GA-216 state that water-resistant
backing board may be used on ceilings when framing spacing does not exceed 12
inches on centers for 1/2-inch- thick panels or 16 inches on centers for 5/8-inch
thick panels.

Glass-mat, water-resistant backing panel is the generic term for “Dens-Shield Tile
Backer”, which is produced by G-P. It is an alternative to water-resistant gypsum
backing board. It has a gypsum core, which is lighter than cementitious backer units, and
a coated glass-fiber mat surface that protects the core from moisture. Although the
gypsum core is water resistant, it will soften and deteriorate over time when exposed to
moisture. The manufacturer recommends installing these panels with a 1/4-inch open
space between the panels and other construction or penetrations. Joints must be treated
and cut edges must be sealed against moisture penetration to comply with the
manufacturer's written installation instructions.

Cementitious backer units have a portland cement core and are surfaced on both sides
with glass-fiber-mesh mats. They are intended to serve as the substrate for tile set with
adhesives, dry-set mortar, or latex portland cement mortar. According to their
manufacturers, products with portland cement cores will not disintegrate or delaminate

WSPEC09 09 26 16gib-5
like gypsum board. They do not provide a waterproof membrane or a vapor retarder. See
manufacturers’ literature for other uses for these products. Malcolm Pirnie recommends
a cementitious backer unit as a tile backing panel. This product should be referenced in
Section 09 30 13, Ceramic Tiling.

Joint Compound

Setting-type joint compounds harden by chemical action and do not shrink once set, even
before fully drying. Their bond is not affected by high humidity or changes in humidity.
Formulations are available with different setting times ranging from 20 minutes to six
hours. Same-day joint finishing is possible with these compounds because of their setting
characteristics. After one coat sets, another coat can be applied without waiting for the
previous coat to dry.

• Setting-type compounds are available as powders that are job mixed with water
and are generally more expensive than drying-type compounds. They are suitable
for filling, smoothing, and finishing interior concrete ceilings, walls, and columns
and for exterior gypsum soffit panels.
• Setting-type taping compounds with long setting times produce the best taped and
filled joints because of their high strength and hardness. They are difficult to
sand; drying-type or sandable setting-type topping compounds are generally used
for finish coats.

Drying-type joint compounds are available ready mixed and as job-mixed powders. Both
products are vinyl based. As the name suggests, these products harden and bond to
surfaces by drying through water evaporation. The compounds shrink until they dry
completely, and a minimum of 24 hours is required for drying between coats. Ready-
mixed, drying-type compounds are factory mixed to a smooth, lump-free paste. Job-
mixed, drying-type compound powders are mixed with water at the site, generally with
electric-powered drill mixers. Packaged, job-mixed joint-compound powder can be
stored at the site indefinitely and is not susceptible to freezing.

• Taping compounds are designed to produce a strong bond between tape and
gypsum board. They are also intended as a first fill coat over corner beads, trim
accessories, and fasteners; they are harder and more difficult to sand than topping
or all-purpose compounds.
• Topping compounds generally offer low shrinkage, best workability, and the
smoothest finish but have less bond strength than taping or all-purpose
compounds. They are the easiest to sand and finish; they are unsuitable as taping
compounds or as the first coat over corner beads, trim accessories, and fasteners.
• All-purpose compounds are commonly used and are compromises between the
higher bonding strength of taping compounds and the excellent finishing and
shrink-resistant characteristics of topping compounds. Lightweight, all-purpose
joint compounds have better shrink resistance, are more easily worked, and sand

WSPEC09 09 26 16gib-6
 as easily as topping compounds; however, they are softer than other joint
compounds.

Malcolm Pirnie recommends setting-type taping compounds with all-purpose drying-type

compounds for finish coats. This combination produces strong joints that resist cracking.
The appearance differences among various joint-compound combinations, however, is
not significant. See USG’s The Gypsum Construction Handbook for further discussion
about selecting joint compounds.

Gypsum Board Finish Levels

ASTM C840 specifies finish levels, which are summarized below:

• Level 0: Taping, finishing, and cornerbeads are not required.

• Level 1: At joints and interior angles, embed the tape in the joint compound.
Panel surfaces must be free of excess joint compound, but tool marks and ridges
are acceptable.
• Level 2: At joints and interior angles, embed the tape in the joint compound and
immediately apply the joint compound over the tape. Apply one coat of the joint
compound on fastener heads, and flanges of trim accessories. Panel surfaces must
be free of excess joint compound, but tool marks and ridges are acceptable.
• Level 3: At joints and interior angles, embed the tape in the joint compound and
immediately apply the joint compound over the tape. Apply one additional coat
of the joint compound over the tape. Apply two separate coats of the joint
compound over fastener heads and flanges of trim accessories. Panel surfaces and
the joint compound must be smooth and free of tool marks and ridges.
• Level 4: At joints and interior angles, embed the tape in the joint compound and
immediately apply the joint compound over the tape. Apply two additional
separate coats of the joint compound over flat joints. Apply one additional coat of
the joint compound over interior angles. Apply three separate coats of the joint
compound over fastener heads and flanges of trim accessories. Panel surfaces and
the joint compound must be smooth and free of tool marks and ridges. “Drywall
primer” must be applied to surfaces before applying final decoration. Malcolm
Pirnie recommends this finish for most installations.
• Level 5: Finish must be equal to Level 4 (embedding coat and three finish coats)
plus a skim coat over the entire gypsum board surface. Surfaces must be smooth
and free of tool marks and ridges. Level 5 is considered a high-quality gypsum
board finish and is recommended for areas that will receive glossy paint or that
are subject to severe lighting. In lieu of requiring Level 5, consider using a more
expensive gypsum veneer plaster specified in Section 09 23 00, Gypsum
Plastering, for a better, monolithic appearance.

WSPEC09 09 26 16gib-7
As an alternative to the final skim coat, some manufacturers offer high-build interior
coatings designed for application by airless sprayer and to be used instead of skim coat to
produce a Level 5 finish.

Fire-Resistance-Rated Assemblies

Most building codes require tested fire-resistive assemblies with hourly ratings for
specified uses. Generally, a limited number of assemblies are described in the code itself.
Authorities having jurisdiction frequently accept design designations of tested assemblies
listed by independent agencies, such as UL, on the Drawings as evidence of code
compliance.

Acoustical Partitions

Reducing airborne sound transmission through partitions and ceilings is indicated by

sound transmission class (STC) ratings published by manufacturers. USG Corporation
developed a music/mechanical transmission class (MTC) rating system to evaluate the
attenuation of sounds involving a high percentage of low-frequency energy, such as those
produced by music and noise from machinery and mechanical equipment. The MTC
rating does not replace the STC rating but complements it. For more information on
MTC ratings, see the manufacturer’s literature. STC and MTC ratings do not indicate
reductions of vibration or impact noise, which is classified by impact insulation class
(IIC) ratings according to ASTM E989. Reducing vibration and impact noise requires
dampening and isolation by other means, such as floor coverings and isolation
mountings.

STC ratings depend on mass, resiliency (or isolation), dampening, and absorption.
Multilayer applications contribute mass. Unbalanced gypsum board partitions (a single
layer on one face and double layers on the other face) are almost as efficient as double
layers applied to both faces, and save material and labor costs. Wood supports are less
resilient than steel studs; therefore, they generally transmit more sound. Isolating wood
studs by staggering them or using resilient channels increases sound-transmission
resistance. Staggering steel studs is not practical because light-gage steel studs are
unstable unless panels are applied to both surfaces. Dampening and absorption are
provided in sound-rated assemblies by insulation (sound attenuation) blankets in the
cavity, which may add 5 or 6 dB to the rating.

A bead of acoustical sealant is required at perimeter edges of panel surfaces on both sides
of the assembly. Sealant is also required at gaps and around cutouts in assemblies for
outlet boxes and other penetrations and openings behind control joints, unless the control-
joint manufacturer recommends another way of blocking sound transmission. STC and
MTC ratings are meaningless if airborne noise can travel through cracks, openings,
penetrations, or flanking paths. Eliminating flanking paths requires careful detailing and
material selection.

WSPEC09 09 26 16gib-8
Sound-rated-assembly performance is not as efficient as published ratings, which are
based on carefully controlled laboratory conditions. Assume that an assembly’s
acoustical performance will actually be at least 5 dB below that of its STC rating.

Steel Framing Members

Light-gage steel framing components for screw application of gypsum board come in
various shapes, thicknesses, sizes, and finishes and are specified in Section 09 22 16,
Non-Structural Metal Framing. The most commonly used thickness for hat-shaped
furring members, studs, and runners complying with ASTM C645 is 0.0179 inch. For
supporting cementitious backer units, 0.0312-inch thick studs are recommended. Base
the selection of size and the thickness of components on the spacing and span or height of
steel supporting members; the type, number, and orientation of panels applied to each
face; and the degree of load and impact resistance required.

Stud height and spacing limitations for single- and double-layer gypsum panel
applications are tabulated in ASTM C754 according to maximum deflection and
minimum lateral loading requirements. USG’s The Gypsum Construction Handbook
states that the recommended deflection limit for gypsum board assemblies is L/240. The
maximum allowable deflection is L/120 because deflection greater than L/120 is likely to
cause cracking or other damage to gypsum board finishes under normal conditions. Tile
finishes applied to gypsum board assemblies may require deflection limits of L/360 or
less. Verify specific substrate deflection requirements of tile products specified.

Conventional suspended ceiling and soffit systems have gypsum board panels applied to
furring channels (furring members). Cold-rolled channels, steel studs, and hat-shaped
rigid or resilient channels are common furring channels. Furring is wire-tied to the
structure or is supported by carrying channels (main runners) suspended from the
structure.

Grid suspension systems are suitable for interior gypsum board ceilings and are
manufactured systems of main runners, interlocking cross-furring channels, and wall
angles. They are direct-hung systems that do not employ intermediate carrying channels.
Grid suspension systems may be a less-expensive alternative to conventional indirect
suspension systems.

Z-furring members support both gypsum board and thermal insulation. They are not
intended to be used without insulation; coordinate their use with requirements in Section
07 21 05, Building Insulation. Z-furring members distort when gypsum board is fastened
to them; therefore, careful installation is required to produce surfaces that appear flat.
USG advises attaching gypsum board first to the open (unsupported) edges of flanges of
Z-furring members. To minimize distortion, avoid using Z-furring with mineral-fiber
blanket insulation that easily compresses. Using rigid, plastic insulation boards or
higher-density mineral fiber can help decrease distortion. Refer to the General
Information Bulletin associated with Section 09 22 16, Non-Structural Metal Framing,
for more detail.

WSPEC09 09 26 16gib-9
Crack Control

Gypsum board surfaces will crack if non-load-bearing assemblies are subjected to

structural movements. In non-load-bearing assemblies, isolate gypsum board panels from
structural elements at all points of contact except floors. Because all structural systems
are subject to creep, settlement, deflection, thermal movement, and wind-load strains,
consider the effect of these forces on gypsum board assemblies and detail isolation
requirements on the Drawings. Because wood framing is subject to swelling and
shrinking, “floating” interior-angle gypsum board application is recommended,
particularly for directly attached ceilings. Using resilient channels can also minimize or
eliminate wood-framing movement problems.

Control joints prevent cracks in large areas of gypsum board resulting from dimensional
changes caused by temperature and humidity fluctuations. Cracks tend to occur at weak
points such as corners of openings. ASTM C840 requirements for control-joint locations
are summarized below. Show the location of and detail control joints on the Drawings.
Control joints in fire-resistance-rated construction require rated joint systems and special
detailing.

RECOMMENDED CONTROL-JOINT LOCATIONS

• Install control joints in areas exceeding 2,500 sq. ft.
Space control joints not more than 50 feet on centers.
Install control joints where ceiling framing or furring
Ceilings
changes direction.
• Install control joints over control joints in steel
framing.
• -Install control joints in partitions and wall furring
runs exceeding 30 feet.
-Space control joints not more than 30 feet o.c.
Partitions and
-Install control joints in furred assemblies where
Furring
control joints occur in base exterior wall.
• -Install control joints over control joints in steel
framing.

Do not bridge building expansion joints with gypsum board panels. Set the width of the
gaps between gypsum panels to accommodate the calculated movement. To cover gaps,
often both board edges are trimmed with metal, and a metal backer strip is attached to
only one side or manufactured covers are specified in Section 07 95 13, Expansion Joint
Cover Assemblies. Sealants or gaskets used to close the gap must be capable of
accommodating movement without transferring stresses to gypsum board construction
and without failing in adhesion or cohesion.

WSPEC09 09 26 16gib-10
Texture Finishes

Decorative and acoustical texture finishes are available that can be painted or left
unpainted. The gypsum board Installer often applies texture finishes; however, these
products can be specified in painting or special coating Sections. Sometimes, textures are
applied using the same topping compound used to finish gypsum board joints. See
manufacturers’ literature for detailed descriptions of the different products and
application methods. Because many variables affect the texture finish appearance,
requiring a mockup is recommended.

Water-based texture finishes can cause gypsum board ceilings to sag. Some
manufacturers recommend sag-resistant ceiling board for areas that will receive texture
finishes. Precautions must be taken during the texture finish application to ensure that
moisture does not condense within the gypsum panel.

Seismic Controls

The model International Building Code (IBC) has specific requirements for the design,
construction, and inspection of seismic and vibration control of gypsum board walls and
ceilings that meet certain criteria. Consult the project’s structural engineer for guidance
concerning the requirements for seismic and vibration control of gypsum board walls and
ceilings. Also, refer to Section 01 45 33.00, Code-Required Special Inspections and
Procedures, Section 40 05 96, Vibration, Seismic, and Wind Controls and the building
code in effect at the Site for other requirements.

Vapor Control

In cold climates, vapor retarders are placed on the warm interior sides of walls. For air-
conditioned buildings located in climates with high outside temperatures and humidity,
the location of the vapor retarder should be determined by a qualified mechanical
engineer. Avoid construction that traps moisture within wall cavities. Indicate on the
Drawings how the continuity of the vapor barrier is to be maintained at transitions to
other construction.

Foil-backed gypsum board can be used for vapor control, or a separate vapor retarder can
be installed. Polyethylene vapor retarders cannot be exposed in plenum areas. For
framed, insulated exterior walls, another alternative is installing insulation blankets faced
on one side with a vapor retarder.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS

Recycled paper is used for the facing of gypsum board products. In some areas,
companies are recycling gypsum waste from construction sites. Verify the availability of
gypsum recycling operations in the area of the Site, and specify requirements for
recycling gypsum waste if applicable. Gypsum board waste and scraps are used as soil
enhancers, to control acidity, and as mulch.

WSPEC09 09 26 16gib-11
Even before the significant hurricanes of 2005, mold-related claims against building
owners are increasing. Reasons asserted for the increase in mold-related lawsuits include
tighter building envelopes that hinder the escape of moisture, the use of building
materials with organic components that “feed” mold (such as paper facings on gypsum
board), design details that allow water intrusion, HVAC system design that improperly
controls the movement of moisture vapor, shorter construction schedules that sequence
finish work before the interior environment is conditioned, and inadequate protection of
construction materials before, during, and after installation. This Specification Section
includes requirements for installing interior gypsum board products only after spaces are
enclosed and conditioned, and requires that stored and installed products be protected
from moisture and mold damage.

SUSTAINABILITY AND THE LEED RATING SYSTEM

Most manufacturers are now advertising their products as “green”, or “meeting LEED
credit requirements”, or having “sustainable features”; some of these claims may be
“greenwashing” (exaggerated). Review manufacturers’ literature to ensure that specified
products comply with the advertised claims and current LEED credit requirements.

The U.S. Green Building Council's LEED-NC: Green Building Rating System for New
Construction & Major Renovations, and its LEED-CI : Green Building Rating System for
Commercial Interiors, have been developed to guide owners and Project team members
on rating green and sustainable design practices. Gypsum board assemblies may qualify
for the following LEED credits:

• Credits MR 2.1 and 2.2: require defined percentages of construction waste and
demolition debris to be diverted from landfills, and require documentation
indicating the weight or volume of material recycled. Refer to Section 01 74 19,
Construction Waste Management and Disposal.
• Credits MR 4.1 and MR 4.2 require defined percentages of building materials to
incorporate recycled content and require documentation indicating the weight of
material recycled.
• Credits MR 5.1 and MR 5.2 require defined percentages of building materials to
be extracted and manufactured in the region and require documentation indicating
the cost of material.
• Credit EQ 4.2 requires that adhesive materials used on the interior of the building
meet certain VOC content limits and requires documentation indicating the VOC
data.

See Section 01 35 63, Sustainability Certification Project Requirements, and its

associated General Information Bulletin for additional information.

WSPEC09 09 26 16gib-12
DRAWING COORDINATION

Review Malcolm Pirnie’s Standard Construction Documents Procedure Memorandum

No. 3, Coordination Between Drawings and Specifications. The Drawings should show
the following information related to gypsum board assemblies:

• Extent of each kind of drywall construction.

• Thickness of gypsum board and number of layers for each different application, to
the extent not universally specified.
• Fire-rated type board where required for fire resistance.
• Insulating type board where required.
• Water-resistant type backing board where required.
• Special details where normal manufacturers’ details are not applicable, including
exceptional support spacing.
o Sound control and isolation details, particularly edge trim and sealants or
gaskets.
o Metal stud system requirements, details.
o Resilient furring, where required.
o Details of ceiling suspension, if not fully specified, including impact-noise
resilient hanger devices, etc.
o STC ratings required, or simply a note to comply with specified sound control
requirements.
o Whether partitions pass through ceilings to structure above, and if so, whether
drywall facings are to be complete and with joints treated.
o Locations requiring sound attenuation blankets.
o Exterior drywall soffits and ceilings.
• Trim accessories, to the extent not universally specified, including control joints
and expansion joints.
• Supplementary framing, blocking, etc. for fixture support.

INSTRUCTIONS TO THE RESIDENT PROJECT REPRESENTATIVE (RPR)

Review the instructions to the RPR in the General Information Bulletin associated with
Section 09 22 16, Non-Structural Metal Framing. The RPR should:

Upon Delivery of Materials

• Check materials for conformance to the Contract Documents and approved

submittals.

WSPEC09 09 26 16gib-13
 • Verify that materials are in properly labeled and containers are undamaged.
• Verify that materials are stored in a dry area protected from weather and
accidental damage by other trades.
• Have damaged material removed from the Site.

Before Start of Wallboard Work

• Verify that temperature of installation area is within allowable limits.

• Assure that ventilation is provided.
• Check for cracked or damaged board and remove defective material.

Framing Erection

• Check accuracy of alignment and position of framing and furring members.

• Measure spacing of studs and joints.
• Inspect for protrusions that would create an uneven surface, such as, blocking,
bridging, or studs out of alignment, twisted studs, or piping out of alignment.
• Make sure there is blocking and support for fixtures to be supported from
partitions.
• Verify that door frames and electrical and plumbing fixtures are set for the
required wallboard thickness.
• Examine metal studs at corners, intersections, and door frames for positive
attachment to floor and ceiling runners.
• Verify that metal door frames are attached to stud and runner rough framing with
anchor clips.

Suspended Framing

• Measure spacing of hangers, channels and studs. These should not exceed
spacing required for thickness of wallboard to be installed.
• Ends of main runner and furring channels should not be let into or be supported
by abutting walls, and extend to within 6 inches of the wall to support a furring
channel.

Base Layer (if any)

• Verify staggered joints in horizontal and vertical application.

• Check spacing of fasteners.
Face Layer

WSPEC09 09 26 16gib-14
 • Verify that wallboard surfaces are free of defects and with joints correctly butted
and staggered.
• Inspect application method—horizontal or vertical.
• Measure spacing and verify fasteners offset with base layer fasteners.
• Review adhesive application method.
• Inspect trim at corners and around partition perimeter for attachment and
installation.

Fasteners

• Verify that application starts in the center of the wallboard and work to the ends
and edges.
• Check that wallboard is held tight against framing. Test for loose wallboard by
pushing adjacent to fasteners. Check to see that face paper is not broken when
fastener is driven. If necessary, a second fastener should be driven within 1.5
inches of the faulty one.
• Examine fastener positions. Fasteners should be at least 3/8-inch in from edges
and ends.

Adhesives, if any

• Verify that adhesive is applied only to clean, dry surfaces.

• Verify that wallboard is erected within time limit after adhesive is applied so
proper bond can be obtained.
• Measure size of adhesive bead and spacing.
• Observe impacting blows for proper spacing and positioning.
• Verify temporary fastening and shoring holds board in place.
• Review appropriate adhesive application methods and inspect for compliance.

Joint Treatment

• Verify that wallboard surface is ready for joint treatment; fastener heads are
seated below wallboard surface; protrusions are sanded below level of surface;
cracks between panels are filled with joint compound before taping.
• Verify that mixing directions for joint compounds are followed. Only clean water
and mixing equipment should be used.
• Inspect joints and corners to see that the tape is embedded and covered with a thin
coat of joint compound. Only compounds suitable for embedding should be used.
Heavy fills should be avoided.

WSPEC09 09 26 16gib-15
 • Inspect to see that joint compound is allowed to dry thoroughly between coats.
• Inspect first, second, and finish coats over joints for smoothness and for edge
feathering.
• Examine fastener heads and metal trim to see they are covered.
• Inspect that all finished joints are sanded and dry before decoration.

After Installation

• Verify that all protective material has been removed and areas in which gypsum
board Work was performed have been cleared of waste materials and equipment.
• Verify that all openings in gypsum board assemblies are in accordance with the
Contract Documents, and that all gypsum board assemblies are properly finished.
• Verify that temporary heating, when required, is maintained.
• Verify that all openings in framing are in accordance with the Contract
Documents and are properly finished.
• Cooperate with the Coordinating Special Inspector if special inspections are
required.
• Verify that all LEED documentation, if applicable, has been submitted by the
Contractor.

************************************************************************
REVISIONS
Initial Issue: 05/15/1977.
Revision No. 1: 10/30/2008 – General update.
Revision No. 2: 11/30/2009 – Changed section number from gib09260 to 09 26 16gib
for revision to MasterFormat 2004.

************************************************************************

WSPEC09 09 26 16gib-16