This lightweight construction system for ceilings and walls represents the most convenient alternative to efficiently solve

any internal element. It allows for a fast, dry and clean construction with a minimum of added weight to the structure and foundations of the building. This system is not designed to be used for the principal structure of the project. TecniGypsum Systems and Products TG offers a wide variety of quality products as well as systems designed for high performance. These systems were designed taking into consideration the following important factors: cost, structural capacity, aesthetics and general function. Both the cement and plaster panels are thin and lightweight, allowing for a fast and low cost installation. They are most commonly used in new residential buildings and are also gaining more acceptances from commercial constructions as well. The manufacturing process of plaster cast products. The development of all plaster based products initiates with the extraction of the mineral plaster, which can be either white or grey. The basic mineral is composed of calcium sulfate which is chemically combined with water. This combination represents approximately 20% of the weight of the plaster mineral. This characteristic gives plaster cast products it's fire resistant properties and also makes it highly adaptable to construction projects. After the extraction process of the plaster mineral, it is then crushed, dried and then ground to a consistency similar to that of flour, which in turn is then treated at high temperatures to eliminate the excess water that was chemically added. The end result is commonly known as plaster of Paris, to which water and other ingredients can then be added to be sandwiched between layers of special paper to form various plaster panels or can also be specially formulated to be sold by the sack as plaster cement mix. The continued advances in construction with plaster products depend upon the quality and the reduction of both time and cost of construction. TG has consistently been at the cutting edge regarding these aspects. At the research and development center of USG, new more cost efficient and diversified products are developed and tested for better fire and acoustics resistance. Once quality has been assured, the strategically located production plants manufacture or supply the construction materials described in the following manual. Advantages of construction with plaster products Protection and security. Fire resistance is inherent to the construction with plaster or cement based products. They provide a permanent and consistent safety that is not subject to the loss of water pressure and or other causes common to extinguishers or other aspersion systems. Fire Resistant. Neither plaster or cement panels generate or contribute to fire combustion. As it is ravaged by fire, they release the water that was chemically combined with the plaster crystals in the form of vapor, which helps to retard flame propagation, protecting the adjacent constructions. Cement panels are also effective barriers against fire. Both types of construction comply with all standard fire resistance and propagation regulations. All of the specific assembly components such as wall dividers and structural supports, beams and plaster based coatings are classified to resist fire for up to four hours. Acoustic control. Constructions made with plaster and cement offer excellent resistance to the conveyance of noise from sound waves and impacts, without the need of excessive mass or weight. The resilient fastening of the plaster panels or bases added to the use of insulation; improve the noise reduction classifications making this system ideal for dividing walls. There are walls and mezzanines that meet both the Sound Transmission Class (STC) and Impact Insulation Class regulations applicable to codes and customer needs. Durability: The coatings combine the best characteristics of traditional plaster panels. Its high resistance also offers the strength necessary for high traffic areas. The conventional plastered surfaces are very resilient to impacts and wear and tear. Plaster panel walls and ceilings provide more resistance to cracks resulting from minor earth as well as from variations in temperatures in comparison with more rigid systems. Cement panels are exceptionally durable and are not deteriorated by water. Light Weight: Constructions made with plaster or cement are much more light weight when compared to other masonry systems of the same density. They are more cost efficient in regards to its handling and also allow the use of other light weight structural items such as mezzanines and foundations. Low installation costs: Plaster and cement panels allow for cost efficient installation costs. The hollow assembly provides an ample cavity both for thermal and acoustic insulation, also allowing ease of installation for electrical and sanitary ductwork within the walls.

Fast Installation: Construction with plaster and cement panels reduce the costly delays involved during the rainy or winter seasons, allowing the conclusion and occupation of the project more quickly. The materials can be stored on site, making them readily available to be cut and installed. Ease of Dcor: Plaster panels offer smooth surfaces that quickly allow for ease of dcor such as paint, wallpaper, vinyl coatings or tile, also making possible to redecorate easily at any time during the life cycle of the building. Versatility: The panel of plaster or cement constructions are suitable as walls watersheds. They are adaptable for any new construction, commercial, institutional, industrial or residential and for renovations. Form attractive walls and ceilings without joints, and easily adapt to almost any outline, module or dimensions. Resistance to abuse: We have a line in the different types of laminate named AR (abuse resistant) which was designed for high resistance to shock and impacts, for more details please request information regarding the AR lines. Limitations of plaster panels 1. Exposure to excessive or continuous moisture and extreme temperatures should be avoided. Its use should be avoided in solar heating systems or others where the gypsum panel can be in direct contact with surfaces that have a temperature greater than 125 degrees F. 2. The sheet must be protected against direct contact with water and high levels of humidity, for such cases you exterior panels must be used. 3. In order to prevent unacceptable warping in ceilings, insulating materials must be independently supported. Proper ventilation of the crawlspace or attic is recommended. For more information regarding our construction system, please review our installation manual which is available at our offices.