Gypsum boards, also known as drywall or plasterboard, are integral to modern construction, serving as a versatile and cost-effective solution for walls and ceilings. In North America, where construction standards and aesthetic preferences vary, the demand for high-quality gypsum boards is strong. This blog explores the top five gypsum board brands that are leading the North American market, each offering unique features and benefits that cater to different needs.
According to Persistence Market Research's projections, North America market for gypsum boards is projected to expand at a CAGR of 6.3% and thereby increase from a value of US$14.3 Bn in 2024 to US$21.9 Bn by the end of 2031.
USG Corporation
Overview: USG Corporation is a leading player in the North American gypsum board market, renowned for its extensive range of products and innovation. Established in 1901, USG has a long history of delivering high-quality building materials.
Product Range: USG’s gypsum board products include traditional drywall, moisture-resistant boards, fire-resistant boards, and acoustic panels. Their well-known brands like Sheetrock® and Ceilings® are staples in both residential and commercial construction.
Key Features:
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Sheetrock® Brand UltraLight Panels: These panels are lighter than standard drywall, making them easier to handle and install without compromising strength.
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Firecode® Brand Panels: Designed for enhanced fire resistance, these panels are essential for meeting safety codes in commercial buildings.
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Moisture Resistant Boards: Ideal for areas prone to high humidity, such as bathrooms and kitchens, these boards help prevent mold and mildew.
Why It Dominates: USG’s dominance is attributed to its innovative products and strong reputation in the industry. The company’s commitment to research and development ensures that their products meet evolving construction needs and regulatory standards.
CertainTeed
Overview: CertainTeed, a subsidiary of Saint-Gobain, has been a prominent name in the construction industry since 1904. Known for its comprehensive building product portfolio, CertainTeed offers a range of gypsum board solutions tailored to various applications.
Product Range: CertainTeed’s gypsum board offerings include standard drywall, impact-resistant panels, and specialty boards for high-traffic areas. Their Gypsum board line is well-regarded for both residential and commercial use.
Key Features:
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Sustainable Solutions: CertainTeed emphasizes sustainability with products like the AirRenew® Gypsum Board, which actively removes indoor pollutants.
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Mold and Moisture Resistance: Their products feature advanced moisture and mold-resistant technology, making them suitable for challenging environments.
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Easy to Install: CertainTeed boards are designed for quick and efficient installation, reducing labor costs and project timelines.
Why It Dominates: CertainTeed stands out for its focus on sustainability and innovative product solutions. Their commitment to environmental stewardship and energy efficiency resonates with modern building practices and regulatory requirements.
Georgia-Pacific
Overview: Georgia-Pacific, part of Koch Industries, is a major player in the North American building materials market. The company has been delivering quality gypsum board products since its establishment in 1927.
Product Range: Georgia-Pacific offers a variety of gypsum board products, including standard drywall, fire-resistant boards, and moisture-resistant options. Their products are well-suited for both residential and commercial projects.
Key Features:
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ToughRock® Brand: Known for its durability and resistance to impacts, this product is ideal for high-traffic areas.
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Fire and Moisture Resistance: Georgia-Pacific boards feature advanced fire and moisture resistance, providing safety and longevity in various building conditions.
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Ease of Use: The company’s boards are designed for easy installation, helping to streamline the construction process.
Why It Dominates: Georgia-Pacific’s strong emphasis on product quality and innovation, combined with its broad range of solutions, makes it a preferred choice for builders and contractors. The brand’s reputation for reliability and performance contributes to its market dominance.
National Gypsum
Overview: National Gypsum, founded in 1925, is another leading gypsum board manufacturer with a strong presence in the North American market. The company is known for its high-performance building products and commitment to sustainability.
Product Range: National Gypsum’s product lineup includes standard drywall, fire-resistant boards, and specialty products for specific applications. The company’s Gold Bond® brand is particularly well-regarded.
Key Features:
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Gold Bond® Brand Panels: These panels are known for their strength and durability, offering excellent performance in both residential and commercial settings.
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Enhanced Fire and Mold Resistance: National Gypsum boards are engineered to provide superior fire resistance and mold prevention, meeting stringent safety standards.
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Sustainable Practices: The company’s commitment to environmentally friendly practices includes recycling and efficient manufacturing processes.
Why It Dominates: National Gypsum’s focus on high-quality products and sustainability positions it as a leader in the market. The company’s strong emphasis on performance and environmental responsibility appeals to modern construction needs.
American Gypsum
Overview: American Gypsum, a subsidiary of Eagle Materials, is a prominent player in the gypsum board market with a reputation for delivering reliable and high-quality products. The company has been serving the North American market for several decades.
Product Range: American Gypsum’s offerings include standard drywall, fire-resistant panels, and moisture-resistant boards. Their products are designed to meet a variety of construction requirements.
Key Features:
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Fire Resistant Panels: American Gypsum’s panels are engineered to provide excellent fire resistance, ensuring safety in building projects.
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Durability and Strength: The company’s products are known for their robustness, making them suitable for demanding applications.
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Efficient Production: American Gypsum employs advanced manufacturing techniques to ensure product consistency and quality.
Why It Dominates: American Gypsum’s commitment to product quality and performance, combined with its efficient production processes, makes it a trusted choice for builders and contractors. The brand’s focus on delivering reliable solutions contributes to its market leadership.
In the competitive North American gypsum board market, USG Corporation, CertainTeed, Georgia-Pacific, National Gypsum, and American Gypsum stand out as leaders. Each of these brands offers unique features and benefits, catering to a wide range of construction needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for innovative solutions, sustainability, or performance, these top brands provide high-quality gypsum board products that meet the demands of modern construction.