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You Asked, We Answered: Top 10 FAQs From 2022
Over the last 120 years, USG has established itself as a trusted name in the construction manufacturing industry by providing high-quality building materials that our customers can stake their reputation on. The resiliency needed to make it for over a century in the industry comes with the expectation of standing by the performance of your products, but also sustaining a deep knowledge of those products.
One of the small ways we can nurture this knowledge is through the FAQ section of USG.com. These frequently asked questions can ensure that our customers have the information needed to navigate the handling and installation of USG products without hassle. With that in mind, here are ten FAQs from 2022 that had our customers reaching out for answers:
What is the Difference Between All Purpose and Plus 3® Joint Compounds?
Besides their name, it mostly comes down to a weight difference between these two products. Sheetrock® Brand Plus 3® Joint Compound weighs about 25% less than Sheetrock® Brand All-Purpose Joint Compound. Plus 3® is also easier to sand and shrinks less, which can pay off in productivity over the course of an install.
Which Side Faces Out When Installing USG Durock® Brand Cement Board Panels?
One of the things that make USG Durock® Brand Cement Board Panels so easy to install is that it does not matter which side faces out.
Regardless of which side faces out during installation, you can still expect the same great performance that professionals and do-it-yourselfers have come to expect from USG Durock® Brand Cement Board.
How Long Does It Take for Joint Compound to Dry?
While it can vary depending on jobsite conditions, joint compound is able to dry completely in 24 hours. Ideal jobsite conditions for this estimation are a temperature of 70° and 70% humidity, but higher humidity and/or lower temperatures will lead to longer drying times—learn more about the effects of environmental conditions on the jobsite here.
What is the Recommended Control Joint Spacing for Gypsum Panels?
The maximum recommended control joint spacing without perimeter relief is 30 feet for both wall and ceiling applications. With perimeter relief, the maximum recommended control joint spacing is increased to 50 feet.
When Using Sheetrock® Brand UltraLightweight Joint Compound, what is the Coverage Rate for Joint Finishing?
You can anticipate approximately two 4.5-gallon pails/cartons of Sheetrock® Brand UltraLightweight Joint Compound to finish 1000 sq. ft. of gypsum wallboard. This coverage rate is comparable to other USG ready-mix joint compounds.
Does USG Durock® Brand Cement Board Panels Need to Be Waterproofed?
For most interior applications, Durock® Brand Cement Board Panels are not affected by water and do not need to be waterproofed; Durock® is water durable but not waterproof. If you’re looking for added protection to water sensitive material behind the Durock®, you may consider adding a waterproofing membrane. TCNA guidelines recommend the use of a waterproof membrane in interior wet areas.
For exterior applications, consult your design professional as vapor permeance is climate dependent.
What is the Best Way to Store Ready-Mix Joint Compound for Additional Uses?
First, clean the sides and lid of the container so no dried compound can fall into the mixture then level the joint compound surface with a knife.
The best way to store ready-mix compound is to cover the leveled surface of joint compound with approximately a half-inch of clean water before covering the container tightly. Simply pour off any water before reusing the ready-mix joint compound and remix to your desired working consistency. Store between 55-to-95°F in a dry location and protect from freezing or extreme heat as well as exposure to direct sunlight. The shelf life of an unopened container is up to nine months under proper storage conditions.
What Sizes Are Available for USG C-H Stud?
C-H Stud for USG Shaft Wall Systems come available in 2 ½”, 4”, and 6” sizes and 25, 22, and 20 gauge. Please contact your local USG Representative for pricing and availability.
Does Water Need to be Added When Mixing Sheetrock® Brand UltraLightweight Joint Compound?
No, this joint compound is formulated as a ready-to-use product, so you do not have to add any water, simply mix and use. If you must add water, use it sparingly and test apply to ensure proper consistency. The material characteristics of Sheetrock® Brand UltraLightweight Joint Compound are different from other USG ready-mix joint compounds, therefore typical jobsite mixing directions do not apply.
Can USG Durock® Brand Cement Boards Be Installed on Both the Interior and Exterior of Buildings?
Yes, these boards are compatible with both interior and exterior applications, and they can also be used in interior below-grade applications such as basements. In exterior applications Durock® cannot come in contact with the ground.