0

I find references to "SW edge" ('SW' being 'smooth wall') in USG literature. Ex (link),

SHEETROCK Brand Gypsum Panels, SW Have an exclusive tapered rounded edge design to help minimize ridging or beading and other joint imperfections. This edge produces a much stronger joint than regular tapered edge when pre-filled with DURABOND setting type compound and finished with joint treatment. Except for the rounded edge, panels are tapered like, and otherwise identical to, regular tapered-edge gypsum panels.

I got curious because the USG Gypsum Construction Handbook ch 5, "Joint Treatment for Drywall Construction" says, (bold added)

Prefilling Joints is desirable when there are large gaps between panels. This step is necessary with SW edge board.

Fill the “V” groove between Sheetrock brand gypsum panels, SW (see diagram), with joint compound such as Sheetrock brand setting-type (Durabond 45 or 90) or lightweight setting-type (Easy Sand 45 or 90). ...

However, I don't find (or don't understand) any references to "SW" in what I think is the USG panel products list. Everything there seems to be either 'tapered' or 'square' edged.

This makes me wonder whether 'SW Edge' is a product per se, or just the name USG uses for all its tapered edges.

... And, if the latter, is it necessary (per the Handbook, above) to pre-fill the taper with Durabond/EasySand.

Improve this question

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
1

The "SW edge" panels are a subtype of tapered edge panel. The USG panel products list link refers to a product performance brochure concerned only with the fire, mold, moisture, sag, abuse, impact, and shear resistance regarding the entire panel.

USG offers panels with a square edge only as a base panel, which is usually intended to be covered in its entirety with gypsum/plaster and sanded to a finish, or another layer of gypsum board.

USG also offers panels with tapered edges, in both the "conventional" and "SW edge." If you intend to meet the USG spec, this means it is necessary to pre-fill the "SW edge" taper with Durabond/EasySand.

Improve this answer
2
  • So, does 'subtype' mean, that (for ex) 'Ultralite' panels normally come with just a plain tapered edge, but you could get the SW edge on them as an option? (Not necessarily at Lowes/HD, but in principle.)
    – George
    Commented Feb 11, 2018 at 21:10
  • Yep, exactly. Here is a link for that example: usg.com/content/dam/USG_Marketing_Communications/united_states/… On the last page, under Product Data/Edges it lists both edge options.
    – John
    Commented Feb 13, 2018 at 13:16

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.