Mar 29 2009
Georgia-Pacific Gypsum LLC is announcing that DensShield(R) tile backer, the only tile backer with a built-in barrier to prevent moisture penetration, has been listed by two leading environmental organizations. The Collaborative for High Performance Schools (CHPS) has listed DensShield tile backer on its low-emitting materials list. DensShield tile backer has also been listed by the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute (GEI) as a microbial-resistant product.
"Because of its water-resistant core, fiberglass mats, and acrylic surface coating, this tile backer reduces the risk of mold growth in moisture-prone environments like bathrooms and basements by stopping water at the surface and removing a food source for mold," said Barry Reid, product development manager, Georgia-Pacific Gypsum. DensShield tile backer also is lighter and easier to work with than competitive cement-based tile backers.
DensShield tile backer panels are covered front and back with fiberglass mats, which are also integrated with the proprietary, water-resistant treated core. Its heat-cured acrylic coating helps protect the tile installation and wall cavity from moisture intrusion and damage. To achieve GREENGUARD listing as a microbial-resistant product, DensShield was tested under controlled laboratory conditions to demonstrate its resistance to mold growth, in compliance with ASTM Standard D 6329-98. It also exhibits the highest level of performance for mold resistance when tested in accordance with ASTM D 3273.
Based in California, CHPS is a national, non-profit organization that encourages the building of high performance schools by providing guidelines for school districts and design teams to construct learning environments that are healthy, efficient and comfortable. Throughout the country, the CHPS program has been regionally adopted to meet the needs of the varying climates and local conditions in states such as New York, Texas and Washington.
"By being on the CHPS low emitting materials list and also listed by GREENGUARD as a product that resists mold growth, DensShield tile backer is a product that can contribute to helping build a high performance school," Reid added.