How To Install DensGlass Exterior Sheathing
Written by Todd Fratzel.
DensGlass Exterior Sheathing
DensGlass Exterior Sheathing is an excellent gypsum sheathing product specifically designed to be moisture resistant and fire resistant. It’s an excellent substrate behind lots of exterior cladding systems including brick, stucco, EIFS and lap siding products. It has a moisture resistant gypsum core and fiberglass exterior mats instead of similar paper faced products. The really nice thing is the manufacturer warranties the product for 12 months exposed to the environment prior to finishing the exterior siding.
Installing DensGlass On Metal Stud Framing
We are using the DensGlass Exterior Sheathing on a commercial project for an entry way that’s framed with metal studs. The entry way will eventually get a brick facade placed over the framing. For this project we’re framing the wall with 3-5/8″ 20 gauge metal studs with 5/8″ thick DensGlass Exterior Sheathing. We’ll then be installing 2″ of foam board, leaving a 2″ air space, then installing the 4″ thick brick.
We are installing the 5/8″ DensGlass directly to the metal studs. For this project we’re screwing the sheathing to the studs with self tapping bugle head screws. The nice thing about this product is you can cut it with a utility knife just like using regular drywall. Georgia Pacific publishes a pretty good resources for showcasing and using DensGlass Sheathing.
Once we’ve installed all the DensGlass then we’ll be installing two inches of DOW blue board foam insulation. Next the mason will install masonry anchors followed by a brick facad supported on the foundation brick shelf.
So far I’m impressed with this material. The composite action between the metal studs and the Densglass creates a really strong wall. Once we get the interior drywall in place it will be even stronger. I must say metal stud construction is really starting to grow on me, especially for commercial buildings.
Be sure to check back for posts on the finished project in the coming weeks.
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Thanks so much for a great article on installing DensGlass(tm) Exterior Sheathing.
The DensGlass brochure you link to is 6 years old! We’d love for you to post the more current version, or better yet, just link to the following URL and this link will always present the most current version of our literature.
http://www.gp.com/build/product.aspx?pid=4674
Please call our technical hotline at 800-225-6119 if you or your readers have any technical questions.
Thanks again.
Nicole Lipson
Sr. Marketing Manager
Georgia-Pacific Gypsum
One thing that concerns me about the discussion of this wall assembly is the lack of mention of a weather-resistive barrier (“WRB”) covering the DensGlass. While the fiberglass coating of DensGlass does provide moisture resistance (of the gypsum material) it does not constitute a WRB as required by Code. G-P product literature for DensGlass does not specifically require a WRB, but does indicate that a WRB should be installed where required by Code. The IBC requires two layers of WRB behind brick veneer cavity wall assemblies. Rigid insulation does not constitute a WRB.
You are correct. At the time of that project, the location was not under the jurisdiction of the IBC code. In addition, the local building official ruled that properly sealed XPS would count as a weather-resistive barrier. Frankly I tend to agree with that assessment considering 2″ of XPS is considered a vapor barrier and the sealed joints would keep out water and moisture.
Regardless, I do agree with the comment.
I plan on using 2″ galvnaized screw to fasten my 5/8″ Denseglass to 2×6 wood framing. Two questions:
#1 can i use galvanized roofing nails instead? Was wondering because it would be quicker,just not sure if it suffice
#2 After it is installed do i have to tape the joints or will Tyvek wrap be enough..Finish coating will be stucco
Thanks for any advice !!!
I would not recommend roofing nails for this application. While screws may take a tad longer they will be far superior in holding strength.
You should check out the Densglass website for specific details with direct applied stucco. I would be VERY hesitant to omit taping the joints and/or skipping some type of drain plane.
Thanks for your response…I did have another question..We are currently under construction and have some bad weather going on right now..Everything is exposed to the elements including the newly installed Denseglass,will this be a problem?
Again thx for your help !!!
Denseglass is made to withstand the elements during construction. You’ll be fine :)
What are the fiber glass mat thicknesses on the Exterior side of DensGlass? And, the thickness of the Interior side of Densglass?
Not sure I know…the layers are very thin, sure we’re talking about the same product?
When you install densglass Exterior sheathing on steel stud with fibreglass batts, do you have to apply a air barrier coatings ontop of the Densglass?
Yes. If you check out their website you’ll see all the details.
I was wondering how to make an existing wood sided home ge a one hour ire rating using your products