Glass-Mat Gypsum Sheathing: Evolution, Advantages, and Effective Strategies for Air Barrier Applications
Tuesday May 6, 2:30pm – 3:30pm
Track 1
This presentation explores the evolution and benefits of glass-mat gypsum sheathing as a substrate for air barriers. It will discuss the transformation from paper-faced to glass-mat sheathing, emphasizing advantages of glass-mat sheathing such as non-combustibility, air barrier properties, mold and fire resistance, and integration system.
We will examine the manufacturing process of glass-mat sheathing, comparing material sourcing, process, and outline ASTM standards C1177 and C1278 Installation practices are vital for optimal performance. This presentation will cover best practices for handling and storing materials on-site, preconstruction meetings, and installation guidelines as per GA-253 and ASTM C1280. Key considerations include fastener spacing, maintaining proper distance from grade and cementitious materials, fire-rated assemblies, repairing damaged to sheathing, and panelization.
Lastly, the installation of weather-resistant barriers (WRB) and air barriers (AB) will be discussed, focusing on common pitfalls, watchouts, and workarounds for corners, seams, transitions, penetrations, and managing internal humidity during construction.
Learning Objectives:
- Explain why Glass-Mat Sheathing is commonly used as a substrate.
- Explore the Manufacturing and Installation Process of Glass-Mat Sheathing.
- Identify common gotchas, watchouts, and workarounds when installing an AB-WRB over glass-mat sheathing.
- Compare ASTM D4541 and ABAA T0002 and investigate test results.
Matthew Hollingsworth, CDT, Level 1 Thermographer
Georgia-Pacific Building Products, LLC
Matthew Hollingsworth is a seasoned technical professional with over 20 years of experience in commercial sealants, coatings, air and water resistive barriers, roofing systems, and building envelope components. He is a certified Construction Document Technologist (CDT) and a Level 1 Thermographer.
Currently, Matthew is the Building Envelope Technical Manager at Georgia-Pacific Building Products, LLC. He oversees technical application of the DensElement® Barrier System, ForceField Weather Barrier System, DensDeck® Gypsum Roof Board Panels, and other GP Building Products. Since July 2020, he has been pivotal in managing technical field operations.
Matthew is actively involved in the Air Barrier Association of America, serving as Committee Co-Chair for Education and Training, and Conference Committees, and is an active member of the Technical Committee. He is also a member of multiple task force groups for SPRI (Single-Ply Roofing Industry) and the ASTM Committee D01.