DensGlass® Shaftliner Panels are designed for use in shaftwall and stairwell enclosures, offering fire resistance, moisture resistance, and durability for various construction projects. These panels are particularly suited for elevator shafts, air shafts, stairwells, and mechanical rooms in industrial buildings, as well as firewalls separating different areas within a facility. The panels exhibit a top-tier Euroclass reaction to fire A1 classification and can remain exposed to the elements for up to 12 months without delamination or deterioration.
Panel Specifications
DensGlass® Shaftliner Panels possess specific physical and performance characteristics. The panels are available in lengths ranging from 8 feet (2440 mm) to 12 feet (3658 mm), with a tolerance of ± ¼ inch (6.4 mm). Their width is consistently 24 inches (610 mm), and the thickness is 1 inch (25.4 mm) ± 1/32 inch (0.8 mm). The weight of the panels is 4.0 (20), though the units for this measurement are not specified in the provided documentation. They feature a double bevel edge.
Regarding thermal performance, the panels have an R-value greater than 0.65 (0.115 ft²•°F•hr/BTU (m²•K/W)). Flexural strength is a minimum of 80 lbs.f. (356 N) when tested parallel to the panel face and 230 lbs.f. (1023 N) when tested perpendicularly. Surface burning characteristics, as determined by ASTM E84 or CAN/ULC S102, show a flame spread of 0 and smoke developed of 0. The panels also exceed expectations when tested for non-combustibility according to ASTM E136 or CAN/ULC S114.
Installation Guidelines
Installation of eXP Shaftliner requires adherence to specific recommendations and industry standards. Installation should align with methods outlined in National Gypsum Cavity Shaftwall Systems or Area Separation Fire Wall Systems detailed in the NGC Construction Guide, or other approved fire-resistance-rated designs. General installation should follow ASTM C840 and GA-216 standards. It is recommended to cut and score the panels from the backside.
Prior to installation, framing materials should be examined for defects and remedied as necessary. Gypsum panels should be installed first on ceilings at right angles to framing members, followed by walls. Utilizing boards of maximum practical length minimizes the number of end joints. Vertical end joints should be staggered, and joints on opposite sides of a partition should not align on the same stud.
Panels must be held firmly against the framing member while fasteners are driven. Fastening should begin in the center of the panel and proceed towards the edges and ends, setting fasteners slightly below the surface. Care should be taken to avoid breaking the fiberglass mat during fastening; improperly driven fasteners should be removed. A minimum ¼ inch (6.4 mm) clearance should be maintained between the panels and adjacent concrete or masonry to prevent moisture wicking. Installation should occur in a room temperature of no less than 40°F (4°C).
Safety Precautions
Installers should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during installation. This includes long pants, a long-sleeved, loose-fitting shirt, protective gloves, and special eye protection such as goggles or safety glasses with side shields. A dust mask is recommended when sanding, and additional breathing protection may be necessary in extremely dusty conditions.
The documentation cautions that the product contains fiberglass, which may release dust and fibers during handling. These materials can cause eye or skin irritation and breathing difficulties. Contact with skin and eyes should be avoided, and inhalation of dust or fibers should be minimized. The Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for the product should be consulted before use for comprehensive safety information. The documentation specifically advises against using a power saw to cut the product.
Applications
DensGlass® Shaftliner Panels are versatile and can be used in a variety of applications. Beyond elevator and air shafts, stairwells, and mechanical rooms, they are suitable for use as firewalls between office, warehouse, and manufacturing areas. They can also serve as horizontal membranes for corridor and stairway ceilings, particularly under mechanical equipment where fire ratings are required and conventional suspension support is challenging. The panels’ moisture resistance makes them appropriate for installation in semi-exposed areas before the building envelope is fully sealed.
Fire Performance
The panels demonstrate exceptional fire performance characteristics. They achieve an A1 Reaction to Fire classification according to BS EN 13501-1. When tested according to ASTM E84 or CAN/ULC S102, they exhibit a Flame Spread of 0 and Smoke Developed of less than 0. These properties contribute to their suitability for applications requiring stringent fire safety standards.
Product Comparison
The documentation references a product comparison tool, indicating that GP DensGlass® Shaftliner has a comparable product offered by USG Ceilings. Users searching for equivalent USG products are directed to a side-by-side comparison for detailed information. The GP DensGlass® Shaftliner is described as a 1-inch (25.4 mm) glass-mat Type X liner panel with moisture and mold resistance, intended for shaft wall and area separation wall systems.
Conclusion
DensGlass® Shaftliner Panels provide a robust and reliable solution for shaftwall and area separation applications. Their combination of fire resistance, moisture resistance, and durability makes them well-suited for a range of construction projects. Proper installation, following the guidelines outlined in the NGC Construction Guide and relevant ASTM standards, is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and safety. Installers must adhere to recommended safety precautions, including the use of appropriate PPE, to mitigate potential risks associated with fiberglass content.