Georgia-Pacific turns to the ForceField

Atlanta-based Georgia Pacific is rolling out a major new product described as a time-saving and high-performance alternative to house wrap.

Designed to keep potentially harmful water out of a structure during construction – and for the life of the building – ForceField consists of engineered wood sheathing panels laminated with a proprietary air and water barrier. GP introduced the product at the recent International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas.

Early feedback from builders has been positive, according to Jeff Key, marketing manager for Georgia-Pacific.

Once ForceField wall sheathing is installed on a structure, the panel joints are taped with ForceField seam tape, creating an integrated air and water barrier system and eliminating the need for house wrap. The seam tape helps prevent air infiltration and leaks. ForceField panels are installed like standard plywood or OSB sheathing panels.

After ForceField is installed, the only remaining step is taping the seams.

“It’s a time-saver for the builder,” continued Key. “Studies have shown a time savings of up to 37% when installing an integrated air and water barrier instead of house wrap.”

Designed for residential or light commercial applications, ForceField panels are available in 7/16 category thickness, and sizes of 4x8, 4x9, and 4x10. ForceField seam tape is available in 3 in. x 165 ft. rolls. ForceField comes with a lifetime limited warranty for the homeowner and a two-year pre-installation warranty for the builder.