Residential Glass Mat Gypsum Sheathing
For Builders of Better Homes
Unlike traditional sheathings, Glass Mat Gypsum Sheathing enhances fire, moisture, and mold resistance, and is unappealing to pests. Plus, the product boasts excellent labor efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and availability. Its durable and moisture-resistant protective surface permits exposure to the elements for an extended period while construction progresses. Widely adopted for commercial construction over 30 years ago, builders are adopting Glass Mat Gypsum Sheathing with the utmost confidence to enhance the quality and value of their homes and reputations.
Fire Resistant
Mold & Moisture Resistant
Unappealing to Pests
Quick Facts
Glass Mat Gypsum Sheathing:
- Is widely available through multiple manufacturers nationwide
- Has a low learning curve for installers
- Cuts easily and cleanly with a score and snap method
- Is a recognized sheathing option per the International Residential Code (IRC)
- Is suitable for use with virtually any cladding material
Download the Glass Mat Gypsum Sheathing Design Guide for Residential Construction
Explore the technical requirements for using Glass Mat Gypsum Sheathing on residential structures and more.
GET THE DESIGN GUIDE
Read More About Gypsum Sheathing in Walls & Ceilings
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Glass Mat Gypsum Sheathing perform in hot and humid climates?
Glass Mat Gypsum Sheathing is ideal for hot and humid climate zones.
Unlike traditional sheathings, the product is highly resistant to
expansion and contraction when exposed to variable and extreme
environments. Gypsum expands and contracts negligibly, per the
National Research Council of Canada (NRCC), while OSB will expand
0.15% per 1% change in the moisture content of the material.
Does the use of Glass Mat Gypsum Sheathing require additional bracing?
The average one- to two-story production home in non-seismic or
non-high wind zones that’s built with Glass Mat Gypsum Sheathing
generally does not require specialized bracing or designs. These
homes can be designed using the prescriptive IRC methods to resist
lateral forces. Larger and more complex homes may require
supplemental engineered bracing. Contact the Gypsum Association or
any member company for technical assistance.
How does cutting Glass Mat Gypsum Sheathing compare to cutting OSB?
There are some differences, but cutting is simple, and no formal
training is required. For linear cutting, scoring and snapping can
be handled with a utility knife. For more intricate, non-uniform
cutting, Glass Mat Gypsum Sheathing is easily cut with a saw.
I’ve had no problems with OSB. Why should I switch to Glass Mat Gypsum Sheathing?
There are many reasons to switch, but we think the most compelling
is Glass Mat Gypsum Sheathing’s ability to enhance fire- and
moisture-resistance. Using Glass Mat Gypsum Sheathing differentiates
your brand and sets your homes apart.
Is Glass Mat Gypsum Sheathing code approved?
Glass Mat Gypsum Sheathing is prescriptive to the International
Residential Code (IRC). The Gypsum Association can work with local
code officials to provide relevant technical data. You can also
reference our Residential Design Guide for Glass Mat Gypsum
Sheathing.
I build homes in regions that are prone to wet conditions and other harsh weather. How does Glass Mat Gypsum Sheathing perform during the construction phase under these conditions?
Glass Mat Gypsum Sheathing performs well even when exposed to wet
conditions or other harsh weather during the construction phase of a
home. The glass fiber facer is inherently resistant to the elements
because the material is naturally resistant to mold and moisture. It
helps the panel keep its structural integrity when exposed to water
before the home’s cladding or siding is installed. Contact a Gypsum
Association member company for information on product warranties
related to extended exposure to the elements. For information on job
site storage, refer to GA-801, Handling and Storage of Gypsum Panel Products.
I build in areas prone to wildfires. Does the use of Glass Mat Gypsum Sheathing improve the fire resistance of a home?
It can be used where fire-resistant construction is required, making
it ideal for construction in areas governed by the International
Wildland-Urban Interface Code (IWUIC) due to the risk of wildland
fire. Glass Mat Gypsum Sheathing that is listed through a
third-party agency can typically be used in one of the hundreds of
partition assemblies in the GA-600 Fire Resistance and Sound Control
Design Manual. Contact the Gypsum Association or any member company
for information on an assembly and products that may be suitable.
I’m a high-volume production builder. Product availability is essential. How available is Glass Mat Gypsum Sheathing?
Glass Mat Gypsum Sheathing is manufactured in high volume by some of
the most well-known and reputable brands in the construction
industry. The product is widely available through building products
distributors and is often stocked and available at hardware and home
improvement retailers.