USG celebrates its century-old wallboard
USG Corporation is celebrating the centennial anniversary of its Sheetrock brand, which was at one time the world's first wallboard panel, according to the company.
In observation, USG is hosting celebrations across North America with its employees, dealers, and customers. Limited quantities of commemorative products celebrating the anniversary will be shared with customers and dealers.
“From the first simple wallboard panel developed 100 years ago to the breadth of high-performing panels available today, USG has led the industry in innovation,” said Jennifer Scanlon, president and CEO of USG Corporation. “We are thrilled to celebrate a century of excellence and product leadership. We are proud that USG’s Sheetrock brand is one of the world’s most recognized brands.”
Today, wallboard is found in buildings of all types across North America, including homes, hospitals, schools, malls and offices. The modern offerings from the Sheetrock brand boast improved technology, such as improved fire-resistance, lightweight technology, lower water usage and a reduced carbon footprint.
When it was first developed roughly 100 years ago, the wallboard consisted of gypsum plaster between two sheets of paper, eliminating the long drying time associated with plaster, as well as improving building safety (the water molecules could release as steam, instead of catching fire when heated). The first panels were manufactured in Fort Dodge, Iowa.
In 1917, USG officially named its wallboard panels "Sheetrock." By the 1940s, wallboard had become an industry standard, with more builders opting for the faster, cost-effective option over plaster. Now, an average year sees USG manufacturing enough Sheetrock brand wallboard to reach the moon, or circle the equator 12 times.
