Q: Are concealed push bar panic devices allowed for use on doors containing Georgia-Pacific Gypsum components?
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A: No.
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Q: Can I change an order? What is the latest date I can change an order?
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A: Changes may be made at your convenience until close of business on the Thursday prior to the week of shipment. After Thursday, we may not accept changes if your order has gone into production.
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Q: Can I have an “S” label on a 45, 60 and 90 minute door containing Georgia-Pacific Gypsum components?
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A: Yes, all 45, 60 and 90 minute fire doors containing Georgia-Pacific Gypsum components qualify for an “S” label opening, provided an appropriate fire-rated smoke and draft control gasket is used.
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Q: Can I use “Ving” type electronic locks?
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A: Yes, as long as the mortise cutout does not exceed that denoted in the Georgia-Pacific Gypsum specification.
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Q: Can I use metal edges on positive pressure pairs of doors?
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A: Only on 20 minute 8080 pairs.
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Q: Can I use more than 100 square inches of glazing in 60 and 90 minute fire doors?
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A: Yes, the doors would not be considered temperature rise per NFPA 80.
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Q: Can I use surface astragals?
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A: Yes, on all doors.
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Q: Can we use 4” hinges?
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A: Hinges must conform to NFPA 80 table 2-8.1.1 requirements.
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Q: Can we use concealed closing devices in positive pressure doors?
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A: No, there are no approvals at this time for concealed closing devices tested to positive pressure requirements.
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Q: Can we use fire doors made with Georgia-Pacific Gypsum components for fire rated doors for exterior applications
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A: No, Georgia-Pacific Gypsum components for fire-rated doors are not intended to be used in exterior applications.
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Q: Can we use frames other than 16 gauge steel frames with Georgia-Pacific Gypsum approvals?
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A: Yes, as long as they are labeled and listed for use with fire doors containing Georgia-Pacific Gypsum components for fire doors. Check the frame manufacturer's listing or contact us.
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Q: Do I have to arrange transportation of my order?
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A: All orders are shipped FOB our plant location. You may arrange your own carrier or have us make the selection. Orders must ship within 48 hours of completion. All orders are shipped “freight collect”.
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Q: Do I need to use an approved adhesive to glue the stiles and rails to the core?
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A: An approved adhesive is not required. Approved adhesives are only required for door faces.
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Q: Do I need to use intumescent to build positive pressure doors?
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A: The choice is yours. Georgia-Pacific has certifications that do not require the use of intumescent in the door or on the frame. Certifications are also available for doors and frames constructed with intumescent.
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Q: Do the intumescent free approvals require a smoke control gasket at the meeting edges of pairs?
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A: The Pemko S77 meeting edge smoke control gasket is only required if a smoke and draft control opening has been specified. Concealed intumescent is still required on all 45, 60 and 90 minute meeting edges.
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Q: Do wood and steel doors that contain Georgia-Pacific Gypsum components meet the 250 degree F @ 30 minutes temperature rise requirement?
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A: Yes
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Q: Do you export product?
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A: We will quote export orders directly on an order-by-order bais. Quotes are provided on a DES ("Delivered Ex-Ship") term to a Port of Foreign Destination.
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Q: Do you have EDI capabilities?
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A: Yes. For invoicing only at this time.
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Q: Does Georgia-Pacific produce and sell fire doors?
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A: Georgia-Pacific does not compete with its customers. Our focus is to sell the best components to the very best door manufacturers in the world.
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Q: Does mineral core or Firestop contain asbestos?
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A: No. Never has never will.
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Q: How do I get certified to use Georgia-Pacific fire door products?
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A: First, you will need to obtain an updated “Authorization to Mark” form signed by your listing agency representative. Second, you will need to obtain labels from the certifying agency you determine meets your needs. Third, you will need to obtain updated specifications that include procedures for products complying with Georgia-Pacific certifications. You will be required to have a written authorization from Georgia-Pacific Gypsum.
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Q: How much lead time do I have to give the plant when placing an order?
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A: Normal lead time is one week. An order placed by Thursday will ship from our plant by Friday of the following week. During very busy periods this may extend by one week, not more.
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Q: How much wood after trim is allowed on a positive pressure stile?
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A: ¼ inch.
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Q: Is kerfed core available for hot pressing?
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A: Yes
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Q: Should hardware-mounting holes be pre-drilled?
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A: Yes, pilot holes must be pre-drilled.
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Q: Should I use blocking at hardware locations?
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A: Georgia-Pacific Gypsum recommends the use of blocking to ensure long term serviceability.
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Q: What happens if the product is damaged when I receive it? What happens if I have a claim?
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A: Since orders are shipped FOB our location and freight collect, it is your responsibility to file claims for shipment damage directly with the carrier.
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Q: What is a smoke control door?
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A: A fire rated door used in conjunction with a listed smoke and draft control gasket.
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Q: What is a temperature rise door?
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A: A fire door that by code, meets a maximum unexposed surface temperature requirement at a specified time interval during the fire test. (i.e. 250 deg @ 30 minutes)
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Q: What is required for an opening to qualify for an “S” label?
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A: A fire-rated smoke and draft control gasket system would need to be applied to the perimeter and the meeting edges of pairs. The smoke and draft control gasket must be “listed” for compliance with UBC Standard 7-2-1997, Parts I and II.
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Q: What is the best way to machine Firestop® material?
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A: Diamond or industrial grade carbide tooling. Reducing the feed rate and lowering the tool rpm will increase tool life and reduce dust.
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Q: What is the difference between Category “A” and Category “B” fire doors?
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A: A Category “A” fire door does not require an additional edge sealing system. A Category “B” fire door requires an additional field applied edge sealing system.
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Q: What is the minimum number of doors per a specification?
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A: There is no minimum per size or specification provided you order at least 40 total cores. There is an upcharge for less than ten pieces of a size and rating.
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Q: What is the minimum quantity I can order?
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A: One pallet of 40 pieces of mineral core.
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Q: What is the normal packaging for the material? Do I have to pay extra for packaging?
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A: All products for full truckloads are shipped on pallets. LTL (less than truckload) shipments are stretch wrapped at no extra charge. LTL orders are crated to protect them from damage and extra charges may apply. You will be informed of any crating charges prior to time of shipment.
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Q: What is the pre-drilled screw hole diameter?
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A: For a #12 hinge screw Georgia-Pacific Gypsum recommends a 5/32-inch pilot hole. Other screws, the pilot should be 85-90% of the root diameter of the screw.
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Q: What is the STC rating of doors made with Georgia-Pacific Gypsum components?
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A: Because Georgia-Pacific Gypsum does not make doors, we urge our customers to obtain their own STC ratings with sound gasket systems of their choice.
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Q: What kinds of door skins can be used with Georgia-Pacific Gypsum
fire door components?
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A: The majority of architectural wood flush doors use a wide variety of wood veneer species. The most popular veneers being Red Oak and Birch. High-pressure laminates (HPL) are approved, but make up a much smaller portion of the market. Molded hardboard door skins and fiberglass are also options.
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Q: When I machine for hinges, sometimes I go through the wood into the composite material. Does this affect the door’s rating? Will it affect screw holding?
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A: No, wood is combustible and does not contribute in any way to a door’s fire rating. No, GP Firestop edge banding is designed to provide adequate screw holding without any wood.
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Q: When I machine for hinges, sometimes I go through the wood into the composite material. Does this affect the door's rating? Will it affect screw holding?
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A: No, wood is combustible and does not contribute in any way to a door's fire rating. No, Georgia-Pacific Gypsum Firestop® edge banding is designed to provide adequate screw hoolding without any wood.
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Q: Which testing organizations and code approvals certify door assemblies containing FireDefender® components?
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A: The two main certifying agencies in the United States are: Intertek ETL-Semko (ITS) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL). U.S. codes tested to include; ASTM E-152, UBC 7-2 (1997), UBC 43-2, UL 10b and UL 10c, NFPA 252, International testing codes include; British Standard 476 Part 22, Japanese Industrial Standard, CSFM 12-43-4, Can4 S104.
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Q: Who builds doors using Georgia-Pacific Gypsum components for fire-rated doors?
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A: Many of the major door manufacturers in the United States. A map with location and contact information for some of the leading manufacturers is contained in this web site.
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Q: Whom do I contact at Georgia-Pacific Gypsum to become certified to build fire door assemblies and purchase product?
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A: The sales department located in Atlanta, Georgia will assist you in meeting the requirement necessary to get you started. Sales can be reached at 404-652-2518; fax 404-588-3833.
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Q: What is Gypsum?
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A: A white mineral that is milled, heated, hydrated and formed into drywall; or used to manufacture plaster.
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Q: What is wallboard?
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A: A manufactured sheet material made from a variety of items including gypsum and wood fibers used to cover large areas.
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Q: Does DensArmor Plus® Abuse Guard® drywall have the same fire ratings as DensArmor Plus® drywall?
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A: Yes, it has all the same features and benefits as DensArmor Plus® drywall, with the addition of abuse resistance.
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Q: How do the product enhancements to DensArmor Plus® Abuse Guard® drywall affect its moisture and mold resistance?
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A: The abuse resistance enhancements to DensArmor Plus® Abuse Guard® drywall in no way affect the panel's mold resistance. The fiberglass mats on both sides of the panel, plus the treated, moisture-resistance core provide the mold resistance properties of the product.
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Q: How is DensArmor Plus® Abuse Guard® drywall different than 5/8" DensArmor Plus® drywall?
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A: DensArmor Plus® Abuse Guard® drywall has a thicker fiberglass back mat and denser core, than DensArmor Plus interior drywall. Our abuse-resistant product can stand up to high traffic and resists surface indentation and scuffs that can cause costly repairs and maintenance. Both products are more abuse resistant that traditional paper faced drywall.
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Q: Is DensArmor Plus® Abuse Guard® drywall considered impact resistant?
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A: No. It is not tested for hard body impacts.
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Q: Is DensArmor Plus® Abuse Guard® drywall tested for VOCs (volatile organic compounds)?
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A: DensArmor Plus® Abuse Guard® drywall is GREENGUARD and GREENGUARD Schools and Children (sm) certified as a low emitting product, which means the product met stringent tested by the Greenguard Environmental Institute for VOC emissions.
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Q: What makes DensArmor Plus® Abuse Guard® drywall abuse resistant?
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A: A more dense core and fiberglass mats enable the product to meet stringent standards for abrasion, indentation, and soft body impact resistance. DensArmor Plus drywall meets a Level 3 for surface abrasion; Level 1 when tested for surface indentation; and Level 1 for soft-body impact, all when tested in accordance with ASTM C 1629.
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Q: Are DensArmor Plus® high-performance interior panels mold-proof?
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A: No, they are mold-resistant (tested, as manufactured, per ASTM D 3273). Mold can grow on virtually any surface when exposed to the right elements.
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Q: Can a contractor use DensArmor Plus® in a pool area, or a pump house and other areas of extreme moisture?
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A: DensArmor Plus® is a suitable panel to replace green board. It should not be specified in areas that will see moisture levels higher than that of a residential bathroom. For pool areas, see DensShield® Tile Backer.
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Q: Can DensArmor Plus® be used anywhere else besides the interior of the exterior wall?
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A: Yes; any interior wall, basement wall or ceiling that is at risk of moisture are sound applications.
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Q: Can DensArmor Plus® be used as an exterior sheathing?
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A: No. DensArmor Plus® should not be used on exterior applications.
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Q: Can DensArmor Plus® be used in an exterior soffit?
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A: Yes, DensArmor Plus® is suitable for soffit applications where it is not exposed directly to the elements. It can be finished using a setting-type joint compound prior to priming and painting.
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Q: Can veneer plaster be applied over DensArmor Plus® high-performance interior panels?
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A: Yes. Where DensArmor Plus® drywall is to receive a veneer plaster, longer working or open time as well as longer drying times can be expected due to the product's superior moisture-resistance properties. Veneer plasters adhere well to DensArmor Plus panels. Always apply veneer plaster systems according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
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Q: Do paperless products contain any recycled material in their cores?
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A: In keeping with Georgia-Pacific Gypsum's commitment to manufacturing efficiency, product quality and sustainable building practices, Dens™ brand gypsum panels are made with fiberglass mats instead of paper facings like traditional drywall. In line with this initiative, our paperless fiberglass mat products may contain recycled material with small traces of cellulose fiber, which will not affect the overall product performance or characteristics. The Dens™ brand products demonstrate Georgia-Pacific Gypsum's environmental responsibility, contributing to LEED points for low emitting products (DensArmor Plus); innovation and regional materials (all Dens Brand products), among other important credits. >> Learn more
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Q: How do you install and fasten DensArmor Plus® panels?
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A: DensArmor Plus® drywall scores, cuts and fastens like traditional gypsum wallboard. Conventional drywall nails and screws are used to fasten it. Download the Wallworks Guide (PDF: 1.5MB/8pgs) for complete instructions.
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Q: How does one finish DensArmor Plus® high-performance interior panels?
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A: Download the Wallworks Guide (PDF: 1.5MB/8pgs) for complete instructions.
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Q: Is there a mold warranty for DensArmor Plus® high-performance interior panels?
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A: There is no mold warranty. However, DensArmor Plus® drywall carries a six-month weather exposure limited warranty and a three-year (free from manufacturing defects) limited warranty (PDF: 496KB/1pg).
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Q: Is there an MSDS sheet available for DensArmor Plus® high-performance interior panels?
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A: Yes, MSDS sheet #72 for DensArmor Plus® high-performance interior panels is the same for all other Dens™ non-paper-faced fiberglass-mat gyspum products. Click to download the PDF
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Q: What are the similarities and differences in DensArmor Plus® high-performance interior panels and DensShield® tile backer?
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A: DensShield® tile backer and DensArmor Plus® high-performance interior panels similarities: Both use coated fiberglass mats as the back facer material. When installed against the wall framing, both products provide a fiberglass mat surface facing the wall cavity that resists possible mold growth on the back of the panel. DensShield and DensArmor Plus both have cores that are moisture resistant, manufactured to ASTM C 630 specifications. DensShield and DensArmor Plus differences: DensArmor Plus does not have a water-stopping acrylic coating. The coating on DensShield provides a water barrier to stop moisture from penetrating into the product and wall. DensShield is made to be used in wet areas such as showers and tub areas as a substrate for ceramic tile. DensShield is manufactured to ASTM C 1178. DensArmor Plus features a tapered edge for joint finishing while DensShield has a square edge.
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Q: What are the wicking characteristics of DensArmor Plus® panels?
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A: With its moisture-resistant core and the absence of paper facings, DensArmor Plus® drywall resists wicking similar to DensShield® Tile Backer. (.31" over 24 hr. period)
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Q: What is the perm rating for DensArmor Plus® high-performance interior panels?
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A: The DensArmor Plus® high-performance interior panel is permeable. It will achieve the same as DensGlass Gold® exterior sheathing: 1/2" = 23; 5/8" = 12. DensArmor Plus interior panel does not provide a moisture barrier like DensShield® Tile Backer.
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Q: What is the STC (sound) rating on DensArmor Plus® high-performance interior panels?
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A: STC ratings for DensArmor Plus® high-performance interior panels are the same as ToughRock® gypsum board in wall and ceiling assemblies.
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Q: What UL listings do DensArmor Plus® high-performance interior panels have? Are they marked on the product?
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A: We have UL Listings for DensArmor Plus® high-performance fiberglass mat interior drywall panels in the UL Fire Resistance Directory. Refer to the UL Web site at UL Report CKNX.R2717 - Gypsum Board. The UL stamp will be on the back of the board.
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Q: Which side is the back of the DensArmor Plus® panel?
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A: The Gold® color side of DensArmor Plus® panels with the product logo is the back of the panel and should be installed facing the framing or studs. The white side or front has tapered edges for finishing.
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Q: Which side of DensArmor Plus® high-performance interior panels should be painted or finished?
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A: Attach the DensArmor Plus® panel with the GOLD® color (or yellow) side of the panel facing the studs or furring strips. Paint or apply a finish to the white, tapered edge side of the drywall panel facing the interior of the room.
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Q: Why does DensArmor Plus® high-performance interior drywall have two ASTM numbers?
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A: The C 630 refers to the moisture-resistant core. The C 1177 refers to the proven moisture- and mold-resistant fiberglass mat Dens™ technology.
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Q: Can shingles be nailed to DensDeck?
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A: At this time, we don’t have enough data to support the claim that a single or double layer of DensDeck, in combination with special fasteners, can hold shingles in place. Shingles can always be nailed through DensDeck into the wood deck below.
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Q: Does DensDeck® roof board meet the requirements of UL P-921?
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A: Although UL P-921 is a light-weight concrete listing over a steel deck, 5/8" DensDeck FireGuard® roof board has been tested in similar constructions by UL and found to be equivalent in fire performance to the assembly tested. For documentation on this equivalency testing, please call our Technical Hotline at 1-800-225-6119 (Monday - Friday 8AM - 5PM ET, except holidays).
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Q: How many fasteners are needed to achieve FMRC I-60 and I-90 psf wind uplift resistance when 1/4" DensDeck is used as an overlay board?
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A: The number of fasteners required to achieve I-60 and I-90 psf wind uplift resistance for 1/4" DensDeck overlayment depends on the type of membrane used. For mechanically attached roof coverings, only four fasteners per 4' x 8' sheet of 1/4" DensDeck are necessary. These fasteners keep DensDeck in place while the membrane is being attached. The number of fasteners needed to attach such membranes far exceeds the number of fasteners required to achieve 90 psf wind uplift rating.
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Q: How many fasteners are needed to achieve FMRC I-60 or I-90 for 1/2" or 5/8" DensDeck when used as an underlayment directly over a steel deck?
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A: To achieve an FM I-60 wind uplift resistance for 1/2" and 5/8" DensDeck when applied directly to a steel deck, use eight fasteners per 4' x 8' panel and 12 fasteners per 4' x 8' sheet for corner panels. To achieve FMRC Class I-90, eight fasteners for field panels and 12 fasteners for corner panels and all perimeter panels are needed. A Factory Mutual Research Corporation (FMRC) Class 1 rating means that the system qualifies for the lowest insurance rates by FM-affiliated insurance companies. Systems that don’t pass the Class 1 criteria are rated FM Class 2. Class 2 garners a higher insurance premium. FM uses a calorimeter test to classify systems as Class 1 or 2. (A calorie is a unit of heat energy.) In case of fire, 1/2" and 5/8" DensDeck applied directly to a steel deck will not let excessive heat escape to roof insulation and other components, which limits the damage. The numbers 60 and 90 are not wind velocities. They represent 60 and 90 pounds per square foot (psi) of negative force or the amount of uplift a roof experiences as a result of high-velocity winds. To illustrate this concept, think about an airplane on a runway. When the plane reaches a certain velocity, the speed of wind flowing over it creates enough negative pressure to lift the plane up in the air. Here’s another simple example: When the window of a fast-moving automobile is opened, light materials, such as loose papers, etc., fly out of the car. The high wind speed causes a negative force and, as a result, lighter objects get sucked out.
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Q: What is the function of a 1/4" DensDeck overlayment board?
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A: When 1/4" DensDeck is used over insulation and underneath a membrane, it is referred to as overlayment. It is also called a recover board. There are two main functions of 1/4" DensDeck overlayment. First, it delays the passage of fire or the transmission of temperature to the roof insulation and the rest of the roof assembly when fire starts outside the building. The other function is to provide a versatile surface for the application of the membrane. When roofs are recovered, the existing roof system is left in place (reroofing, on the other hand, involves tearing off the existing roof system to the deck assembly then installing a new roof). The new roof is applied after a “recover board” is installed to act as a membrane substrate. Recover boards must be able to withstand potential water entry, temperature extremes and maintain compressive strength. They also must possess excellent fire properties to achieve a Class A rating. 1/4" DensDeck offers all these features. UL Class A, B, C ratings refer to topside fire ratings. According to a UL 790 test report, if 1/4" DensDeck is used under a membrane, the roof assembly gets the same rating as that of the membrane. For instance, a Class C roof is to be recovered. Rather than taking the old and defective materials out (tear-off costs around $1 to $1.5/ sq. ft.), you can apply the 1/4" board over the old roof, saving time and labor. The result will be a Class C roofing system. If a Class A membrane is used over the 1/4" DensDeck, the entire roof assembly becomes Class A. Testing has proven that FTX cedar shakes with a Class B rating can achieve a Class A rating on the roof assembly when 1/4" DensDeck overlayment is used. This configuration is very popular on the West Coast.
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Q: What is the function of a 1/4" DensDeck underlayment?
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A: When you use DensDeck immediately above a steel deck underneath insulation, it is referred to as an underlayment. There are two major functions of 1/4" DensDeck underlayment. First, it acts as a thermal barrier. If a fire breaks out inside the building, the 1/4" DensDeck underlayment will delay the transmission of temperature to the roof insulation for at least 15 minutes. If there is no thermal barrier, the insulation likely will melt and drip inside the building, adding fuel to the fire. Second, a 1/4" DensDeck underlayment provides a strong and versatile surface for the application of insulation. DensDeck offers a suitable surface for subsequent roofing operations such as hot mopping, torch application, mechanical or adhesive application of vapor barriers, insulation, and/or membranes. UL 1256 is the qualifying test for DensDeck over the steel deck. If the flute span is more than 2 5/8" and less than 5" or if the deck is plywood, use 1/2" DensDeck.
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Q: Can I get a 2-hour fire rating on an exterior wall using DensGlass Gold sheathing?
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A: 5/8" DensGlass Gold is a UL classified Type X board. That means that 5/8" DensGlass Gold can substitute for 5/8" paper-faced Type X gypsum board in all generic fire-rated assemblies. To obtain a 2-hour fire rating on a wood or steel framed wall assembly, use two layers of Type X gypsum board on the inside and two layers of 5/8" DensGlass Gold on the outside. You also can get a 2-hour assembly by combining a base layer of 5/8" paper-faced sheathing followed by the outer layer of 5/8" DensGlass Gold.
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Q: Can I use DensGlass Gold as a roof board? How about its application in roof parapets?
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A: DensGlass Gold should not be used in a horizontal roof application. Based on the type of cladding, DensGlass Gold can be used in a roof parapet. If the same roof membrane will extend from the roof onto the parapet, DensDeck® Roof Board is the right choice.
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Q: Can we staple building paper or metal lath directly to DensGlass Gold sheathing?
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A: No. Building felt or building paper such as Tyvek as well as metal lath should not be attached to DensGlass Gold sheathing. DensGlass Gold is not a structural product. It does not offer enough holding power by itself. Such attachments should be made through DensGlass Gold to the framing behind. Felts and building paper are relatively light weight but mechanically fastening these to the framing members using screws and plates will ensure their long-term, in-place retention. Metal lath, with or without paper backing, should be tied following the system provider’s instructions. Lath transmits the weight of conventional portland cement stucco to the framing members.
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Q: How can you achieve high lateral wind load ratings with DensGlass Gold exterior sheathing?
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A: The highest ratings achieved by DensGlass Gold in recent testing was 136.7 psf, representing approximately 231 mph, using a safety factor of 3 for comparison. (Other safety factors can be used. MPH is calculated using Bernoulli's Equation, other methods are used as well.) This was achieved for a horizontal application of 5/8" DensGlass Gold, with studs at 8" on center, and screws at 4" on center. Please call Technical Services at 800-225-6119 to discuss the application before installation.
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Q: How well does DensGlass Gold exterior sheathing stand up to high wind loads?
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A: DensGlass Gold exterior sheathing has recently been tested in accordance with ASTM E 330, which evaluates the structural performance of exterior building materials under uniform static air pressure differences, using a test chamber. DensGlass Gold can withstand winds in excess of 155 mph, when installed horizontally with the property screws and spacing. Download a summary of recent product enhancements, including a wind chart (PDF: 419KB/4pgs).
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Q: Is DensGlass Gold exterior sheathing covered by a warranty?
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A: DensGlass Gold is covered by several warranties. First, DensGlass Gold offers a 12-month, weather exposure limited warranty against delamination, deterioration and decay. Second, Georgia-Pacific Gypsum warrants DensGlass Gold against manufacturing defects for five years. Finally, DensGlass Gold Exterior sheathing is covered by a 10-year limited warranty when used as a substrate for architecturally specified EIFS cladding.
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Q: Is it necessary to finish DensGlass Gold joints or use building paper?
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A: Both the 12-month exposure warranty and the 5/10-year warranty against manufacturing defects do not require finishing of DensGlass Gold joints. The main reason you might consider finishing sheathing joints is to prevent air infiltration or moisture penetration into the wall cavity. A joint is a mechanical opening and DensGlass Gold cannot control how tight or loose it may be. Poor workmanship, a rough field cut, misalignment with a crooked stud, etc., could allow air to infiltrate the wall cavity. In lieu of finishing the joints, DensGlass Gold sheathing can be wrapped in building paper such as Tyvek felt. While we do not require the use of building paper, it may be mandatory if local code requires it.
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Q: What should I do if a shaftwall needs to be higher than the limiting heights table will allow?
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A: The limiting height can be increased by switching to thicker steel (lower gauge), using a deeper stud, lowering the deflection criteria, lowering the operating pressure, or adding an extra board layer. Example: For the same deflection criteria, operating pressure and stud depth, you can increase the limiting height from 14'2" to 15'10" by switching from 25 to 20 gauge steel for the 1-hour design. For a 2-hour design, use two layers of board and the corresponding limiting height goes up from 14'2" to 15'6". The operating pressure is the pressure exerted on the shaftliner surface by air when the elevator travels up and down. At some point, you will exceed the maximum limiting height, for instance, if you want to build a 45' high wall. This number obviously is higher than the highest number given in the table. In such cases, three or four shaftwalls making up the 45' height should be built on top of each other using a back-to-back J track arrangement. Each wall needs to be supported by a fire-proofed structural member or a concrete slab of equal fire rating.
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Q: Which side of the DensGuard board should I finish?
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A: Tiles are applied to the blue side. For walls, DensGuard Tile Backer should always be hung with the blue side out and the gold side facing the studs. For floors, the blue side of the board should be facing up. The blue coating acts as a moisture barrier and is engineered for proper tile adhesion. If you have mistakenly hung the gold side out, you must remove the board and turn it around.
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Q: Can I install a radiant heating system with DensGuard tile backer?
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A: Yes, as long as the intended use will keep the temperature of the system below 125°F on a regular basis.
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Q: Can I use DensGuard tile backer in a steam room or sauna?
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A: First, we would like to provide a clear understanding of the difference between a steam room and a sauna. Steam bathing is distinguished from sauna bathing by the amount of moisture in the air and by the temperatures at which bathing takes place. The air in a sauna is very dry, aided by the wood construction of the walls and ceiling. The sauna usually operates in the temperature range of 175-190°F with low humidity. A steam bath operates in the 110-120°F temperature range with high humidity. DensGuard backer board is approved for use in a residential steam room with a maximum of 48 square feet, while it is not recommended for use in a sauna.
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Q: Do I need to caulk every fastener?
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A: No, simply spot the fastener heads with the tile adhesive, just prior to setting tile.
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Q: How do I paint DensGuard® tile backer?
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A: There are 2 methods to paint DensGuard tile backer:
1. For areas that will remain dry: skim coat with all-purpose joint compound. Allow to dry for 24 hours, sand, wipe clean, prime and paint.
2. In areas that may get wet: skim coat with a setting type joint compound. Allow to set, sand, wipe clean, prime and paint with water resistive paints.
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Q: Is a vapor barrier required behind DensGuard tile backer like it is for cement and fiber-cement board?
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A: Since the blue coating is a moisture barrier, no additional vapor barrier is required. If a vapor barrier is required by code, as is the case in some colder climates, simply slit the vapor barrier with a utility knife in each stud cavity. DensGuard becomes part of the continuous vapor barrier once the tile is set.
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Q: What do I do where the DensGuard tile backer meets the tub flange?
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A: There are 2 different methods to finish this area:
1. Place furring strips the same thickness as the flange on the studs prior to hanging the panel. Then attach the panel so that the edge is 1/8" above the tub deck. Fill gap with flexible sealant.
2. Hang DensGuard so that the edge of the panel meets with the top of the tub flange and caulk edge with flexible sealant. Pack gap between the edge of the tile backer panel and tub deck with thinset if needed to support tile.
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Q: What fasteners are recommended for DensGuard tile backer?
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A: Please see fastener guide in the installation instructions.
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Q: What is the difference between DensArmor Plus® paperless drywall and DensGuard® tile backer?
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A: DensGuard tile backer is engineered to be used in direct wet areas; the coating on the face of DensGuard is designed for proper tile adhesion and serves as a moisture barrier. Both products have fiberglass mats embedded into a moisture-resistant core. The face of DensArmor Plus drywall is designed to finish similar to regular drywall.
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Q: What is the difference between DensGuard tile backer and cement board or fiber-cement board?
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A: While cement-based backer boards are water-durable they do not contribute to proper moisture management. In order to prevent the passage of moisture into the tile assembly the Tile Council of North America requires the use of a membrane to block the passage of moisture, since both the wall cavity and the floor substrate are susceptible to moisture damage. DensGuard tile backer has a built-in moisture barrier on the face which protects the wall cavity and floor substrate. It is at least 30% lighter than leading cement-based boards and has a non-abrasive, moisture-resistant core. Cement board has a heavy, crumbly, abrasive core, which can scratch tubs and fixtures. In addition, unlike cement-based backers, DensGuard backer board does not require any special tools or fasteners to cut and install.
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Q: What is the difference between DensGuard tile backer and greenboard?
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A: Greenboard is a paper-faced, moisture-resistant product no longer listed in the International Residential Code (IRC) or International Building Codes (IBC) for use in wet areas. DensGuard tile backer has fiberglass mats rather than paper, which removes a potential food source for mold. Also the core has been engineered to provide a greater moisture resistance than greenboard and in addition there is a moisture barrier on the face to help prevent moisture from entering the wall cavity. Finally DensGuard meets ASTM C1178 which is listed in the IRC and IBC code for use in direct wet areas.
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