The main T’s and cross T’s are punched to easily frame for nominal 2’x2’ and 2’x4’ type G and F light fixtures. USG manufactures 15/16” faced cross T’s to accommodate type G fixtures, and 50” and 26” cross T’s to frame openings for type F fixtures.

Complete light fixture installation details can be found in USG publication AC3152, USG Drywall Suspension Systems Catalogue.

Yes. USG has more than 60 UL designs where Drywall Suspension Systems are listed. In fact, the system can be used in place of cold rolled channel and furring channel in any UL fire rated design.

Flat ceilings constructed of gypsum board that are screw-attached to suspension members that support a ceiling on one level extending from wall to wall, are generally exempt from acoustical seismic construction requirements such as: perimeter end wall clearance, perimeter hanger wires, horizontal restraint and vertical splay bracing. This is due to the diaphragm strength achieved by screw-attached gypsum board. Gypsum board ceilings that do not extend perimeter to perimeter, or have multiple levels, may require seismic bracing depending on the local code interpretation.

Yes. USG has a wide selection of floor ceiling assemblies that have been tested for acoustical performance with the Drywall Suspension System. For more information regarding a specific design, please see USGDesignStudio.com.

Yes. The USG Drywall Suspension System is designed to be compatible with most USG Donn® Brand Suspension Systems, making it easy to transition from gypsum board ceilings to acoustical tile ceilings.

Yes. Although the components cannot be bent at the jobsite, USG offers complete factory curved components for curved ceilings, domes, and vaults. Ceiling designs can be submitted, and all of the parts and pieces for the installation will be manufactured and shipped out as a kit for faster and easier installation.

For more information, please call the USG Customer Service Center at 1.800.950.3839.

Yes. It is important to note that insulation cannot be arbitrarily added to a fired rated floor ceiling assembly that was tested without insulation. The use and location of insulation in the assembly can dramatically affect fire performance because insulation traps heat (even if it is being used for sound purposes) and can cause premature failure.

USG has UL-tested assemblies where insulation is installed directly on the back side and supported by the gypsum board. Other drywall grid systems do not have this feature so careful selection is important.

Yes, this is an excellent application for Drywall Suspension Systems. USG has a selection of designs that have been third-party verified for wind resistance. In fact, USG Drywall Suspension Systems with Securock® Glass-Mat Sheathing has been accepted by Miami-Dade County for use on exterior soffits in high wind velocity hurricane zones.

USG manufactures two different types of Compässo™, standard Compässo™ made from steel, and Compässo™ Elite, which is made from extruded aluminum.

Compässo™ suspension trim clips are used to attach standard Compässo™ to main T’s and cross T’s, but these clips are not compatible with Compässo™ Elite.

Two layers of 5/8” Sheetrock® Firecode® Type X panels may be installed with the main T’s 48” OC, the cross T’s 24” OC, and 12 gauge hanger wires attached to the main T’s at 32” OC.