Q: What does LR stand for?

A: LR stands for Light Reflectance. It is a measure of the percentage of light which is reflected off of a given panel surface. Typically, the whiter and smoother the panel, the higher the LR value.

Q: What is CAC?

A: CAC stands for Ceiling Attenuation Class.[!]It is the measure of the blocking of sound through one ceiling plane, into the plenum above, and back through the other ceiling plane to an adjacent space.

Q: Why is CAC important?

A: CAC is important when there is a need for privacy between spaces.

Q: What is "X" Technology?

A: "X" Technology is a unique manufacturing method with was developed by and introduced to the market by USG in 1989. This technology produces ceiling panels with CLIMAPLUS™ sag resistance and exceptional acoustical performance.

Q: Why is NRC important?

A: NRC is very important in open office plan environments where there are few full height walls to help absorb or block sound.

Q: How many acoustical panel types does USG offer?

A: USG offers four major types of acoustical panels as well as Gypsum based panels for special applications. They are: Wet-Felted, Cast, "X" Fiberglass.

Q: What is the difference between Class A and Firecode material?

A: Class A signifies that a panel attained a flame spread index of 25 or less (based on 100 for untreated red oak) when tested in accordance with the Standard ASTM E 84. Firecode signifies that a panel has been classified as a protective membrane in a floor-ceiling or roof-ceiling assembly in accordance with the Standard ASTM E 119. All Firecode protective membranes offered by USG have attained a Class A rating.

Q: What is NRC?

A: NRC stands for Noise Reduction Coefficient. It is a measure of how much sound is absorbed by a given material. It is listed as a decimal and relates to percentage sound absorbed.

Q: Does USG offer both types of panels, Class A and Firecode?

A: Yes. Some patterns are offered in both Class A and Firecode formulation.

Q: When referring to ceiling panels, what is the meaning of Type, Form, and Pattern?

A: These categories refer to ASTM Test E 1264. Type refers to the base material of the panel. Form refers to the manufacturing process of the panel. Pattern refers to the type of texture or pattern in the panel.

Q: Why is LR important?

A: When the proper type of lighting fixture is used with a high LR ceiling, there can be savings in both initial construction costs as well as long-term energy costs. The concept is to use the ceiling to reflect light back into the occupied space.

Q: What is the minimum NRC recommended for open office plan environments?

A: It is best to use a minimum .70 NRC panel for this type of application.

Q: What is the difference between wet-felted and cast ceiling panels?

A: Wet-felted panels are typically mechanically perforated and fissured. They are very dense and more economical than other types of ceiling panels.

Q: Which USG Ceiling panel is best to use in a clean room application?

A: USG makes three CLEAN ROOM™ panels for use in these applications. The CLEAN ROOM™ 100, CLEAN ROOM™ 10M and 100M and the SHEETROCK^® Brand Lay-In Ceiling Tile, CLIMAPLUS™ are best for a clean room application.  

Q: What does CLIMAPLUS mean?

A: CLIMAPLUS is USG's term to describe panels that have additional resistance to temperature and humidity. This in turn provides additional resistance to sagging and warping of the ceiling panels.

Q: How far in advance can I order ceiling tile before installation?

A: Storage time of materials at the job site should be as short as possible, and environmental conditions should be as near as possible to those specified for occupancy. Excess humidity during storage can cause expansion of material and possible warp, sag, or poor fit after installation. Chemical changes in the mat and/or coatings can be aggravated by excess humidity and cause discoloration during storage, even in unopened cartons. Cartons should be removed from pallets and stringers to prevent distortion of material. Long-term (6-12 months) storage under uncontrolled environmental conditions should be avoided.

Q: What is the best way to cut a reveal in a ceiling panel?

A: The best way to cut a reveal edge in a panel is with a utility knife or a special Reveal edge tool.

Q: When hold-down clips are required, how much space should I leave between the clips, on the grid?

A: The recommendation for hold-down clip spacing is two clips per panel, centered on the grid, between the panels.

Q: Why would I use one panel type over another?

A: The different panel substrates provide panels with unique characteristics. The use of the different panels will vary based on specific needs and application.

Q: Does the ceiling tile and grid system alone provide a fire-rated assembly?

A: No. The ceiling system achieves a time rating based on the entire assembly which includes roof deck or floor deck assembly.

Q: Which USG Ceiling panel will work the best in a commercial kitchen application?

A: SHEETROCK^® Brand Gypsum Lay-In panel is approved by both the USDA and the FSIS for use in commercial kitchens.

Q: Which USG Ceiling panel provides the highest LR value?

A: MARS™ CLIMAPLUS™ with a 92% LR rating.