The Gypsum Association (GA) announced the revision of 11 technical documents pertaining to the application, finishing, handling, and storage of gypsum panel products. Since December 2016, more than half of the GA's extensive catalogue of free technical guidance documents have been updated to reflect the most current recommendations of technical experts within the gypsum industry. Documents recently posted to the free download section of the GA Bookstore are:

1. GA-214 Quick Reference Guide
2. GA-221-2017 Causes, Prevention and Repair of Joint Ridging and Centerline Cracking
3. GA-223-2017 Gypsum Panel Products Types, Uses, Sizes, and Standards
4. GA-227-2017 Recommendations for the Prevention of Ceiling Cracking
5. GA-235-2017 Gypsum Board Typical Mechanical and Physical Properties
6. GA-236-2017 Joint Treatment Under Extreme Weather Conditions
7. GA-253-2018 Application of Gypsum Sheathing
8. GA-254-2017 Fire-Resistant Gypsum Sheathing
9. GA-618-2017 Building and Inspecting Smoke Barriers
10. GA-801-2017 Handling and Storage of Gypsum Panel Products
11. GA-1000-2017 Identification of Gypsum Board

A new Quick Reference Guide to GA-214 Recommended Levels of Finish for Gypsum Board, Glass Mat and Fiber-Reinforced Gypsum Panels provides a one-page summary of the longer document. Not a replacement for GA-214, the Guide describes each level of finish and when and where they are appropriate. This document aims to better align project specifications and jobsite practices.

GA-1000-2017 Identification of Gypsum Board, and GA-223-2017 Gypsum Panel Products Types, Uses, Sizes, and Standards are valuable reference tools because the former is essential to forensic consultants seeking to identify panels in the field, and the latter provides both the ASTM manufacturing standard and the appropriate installation standard for every gypsum panel product.

GA-221-2017 Causes, Prevention and Repair of Joint Ridging and Centerline Cracking stresses the importance of having all HVAC equipment, tubs, toilets, and roofing in place prior to installation of wallboard. "While this recommendation is not new per se, reports from the field indicate it was often ignored, and resulted in call-backs," says GA Director of Technical Services Michael Schmeida, MSc, LEED AP. GA-253-2018 Application of Gypsum Sheathing has been thoroughly reviewed to ensure this code referenced document supplies appropriate guidance for installation of exterior gypsum sheathing, which is increasingly specified in both commercial and multifamily structures.

"The GA is confident that our documents represent the best impartial technical advice and information the gypsum industry has to offer," says Executive Director Stephen H. Meima, APR, LEED Green Assoc.