Innovation

Innovations in noise reduction and construction efficiency

Jul 11, 2024

Leading the way in solutions that address contemporary construction challenges

In a recent interview with "If Walls Could Talk", Matt Gallagher, gypsum services product manager for National Gypsum Company, spoke with Jill Bloom, group publisher of Walls & Ceilings, about innovations addressing modern construction challenges. Their conversation explores recent advancements from Gold Bond Building Products in sound control and construction efficiency.

Addressing Acoustic Challenges with SoundBreak XP

Sound management has become a critical aspect of modern construction, alongside mold, mildew, and moisture resistance. The SoundBreak® XP® family of products, manufactured by Gold Bond Building Products, LLC, provides a solution to these acoustic challenges. These products are designed to meet the diverse needs of both commercial and residential projects. They include:

SoundBreak products are particularly beneficial in environments where noise reduction is paramount, such as healthcare facilities. The need for quiet exam rooms and patient privacy, mandated by regulations like HIPAA, makes SoundBreak XP a vital component in such settings.

In residential spaces, working from home and the need to keep rooms quieter are examples of the practicality of SoundBreak XP Retrofit. This innovative product allows for easy installation on existing walls, providing an effective solution without the need for extensive renovations. It’s a thin, 5/16” board with a viscoelastic polymer base, and is designed to also have mold and mildew resistance.

The Efficiency Game Changer: MaX 16 Fastener Pattern

The MaX 16® fastener pattern as garnered significant attention since its launch. This optimized fastener pattern is specifically designed for single-layer, one-hour steel stud construction with studs spaced 16” apart. It’s a solution that covers 80-90% of commercial construction scenarios, offering substantial time and cost savings.

The MaX 16 pattern can be utilized with any 4-foot-wide Gold Bond gypsum board that features GridMarX® installation guide marks. A time-motion study by RSMeans revealed that utilizing MaX 16 can reduce installation time by nearly 46% and cut the number of screws used in half. By reducing the number of fasteners required and simplifying the installation process, it addresses the industry's demand for efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Contractor Feedback and Resources

Contractors have responded positively to the MaX 16 fastener pattern, appreciating its simplicity and the tangible savings in time and materials. The consistent pattern, whether applied vertically or horizontally, eliminates guesswork, making it a favorite among professionals.

For those seeking more information, National Gypsum's 1-800-NATIONAL® Construction Services team provides exceptional customer support, offering assistance for contractors and customers who need solutions on job sites. For any inquiries, you can reach out to them directly at 1-800-NATIONAL (1-800-628-4662) or email 800-National@nationalgypsum.com.

In addition, technical guides that provide detailed information on product specifications, installation procedures and best practices – including The PURPLE Book® and The SoundBook® - are available at the Design Resource Center.

Conclusion

National Gypsum continues to lead the way in innovative solutions that address contemporary construction challenges. From enhancing acoustic performance with SoundBreak XP to revolutionizing installation efficiency with the MaX 16 fastener pattern, products provided by National Gypsum are designed to meet the evolving needs of the industry.