Lightweight 1/2 in. composite panel at 1.25 lb/sq ft nominal density per USG
Key features
USG-listed sag-resistant positioning for ceilings with ICC-ES ESR-3365 reference
Tapered long edges for conventional joint reinforcement and finishing
Technical specifications
| R-Value | 0.45 |
|---|---|
| Thickness | 0.5 in |
| Width | 48.0 in |
| Length | 120.0 in |
| Coverage | 40.0 sq ft/pack |
| Material | Gypsum core with recycled face and back papers (Sheetrock UltraLight composite per USG) |
| Fire rating | Noncombustible gypsum core per typical gypsum-board listings; UL classification for surface-burning characteristics and noncombustibility per USG. Not a Type X (firecode) panel unless a separate Type X SKU is specified—verify UL design listings for rated assemblies. |
| Sound rating | Acoustic performance is assembly-dependent; gypsum finish layers contribute to STC in tested partition assemblies (ASTM E90). |
| Density | Nominal 1.25 lb/sq ft panel weight per USG product specifications |
| Construction type | ASTM C1396 1/2 in. gypsum wallboard and gypsum ceiling board per USG UltraLight listings |
| Application area | Interior walls and ceilings; engineered sag resistance may reduce need for separate sag-resistant ceiling board on typical ceiling spans per manufacturer—confirm with USG literature and code |
Product details
Ten-foot wall heights appear constantly in modern tract homes and single-loaded corridors—hanging eight-foot stock leaves a mid-wall horizontal joint that adds taping labor, flatness risk, and callback potential when sight lines are long.
This UltraLight sheet covers forty square feet at the same 1.25 lb per square foot nominal density USG lists for the half-inch UltraLight family, so nominal sheet weight scales to roughly fifty pounds—still in the lightweight positioning versus many traditional boards.
The certification stack mirrors other UltraLight SKUs: ASTM C1396, UL classification statements for surface burning and noncombustibility, ICC-ES ESR-3365 for ceiling positioning where applicable, and GREENGUARD Gold for indoor air documentation.
Logistics matter as much as code: confirm ceiling height, temporary protection, and straight-line paths before ordering ten-foot modules; damaged long edges show up quickly under raking light after paint.
For rated or sound-critical assemblies, never assume UltraLight interchangeability—verify layer count, UL type, and fastener spacing against the tested design, then field-verify edge stamps before cover-up.
Documents & certifications
Technical data sheet
Manufacturer-tested R-value, coverage, fire notes, and handling—use for submittals, RFIs, and field QA.
Download PDF (opens in new tab)Certifications & compliance
GREENGUARD Gold; UL classification (surface burning / noncombustibility per USG); ASTM C1396; ICC-ES ESR-3365 (ceiling installations per USG)
Frequently asked questions
Can I use UltraLight on ceilings?
Can I use UltraLight on ceilings?
USG markets UltraLight 1/2 in. panels with superior sag resistance and references ICC-ES ESR-3365 for ceiling installations in its product literature. Always follow the current USG installation guide and local code for span, framing, and fastener schedules.
Is UltraLight the same as Type X fire-rated drywall?
Is UltraLight the same as Type X fire-rated drywall?
No. Standard UltraLight 1/2 in. panels are not automatically interchangeable with Type X or proprietary fire-resistance boards. For rated assemblies, match the exact board type, thickness, and UL listing referenced in the assembly.
What is the approximate thermal contribution of one layer?
What is the approximate thermal contribution of one layer?
A single 1/2 in. gypsum finish layer is typically modeled near R-0.45 in residential R-value stacking; use your energy model and applicable standards for your climate and assembly.
Where should I confirm packaging and edge detail?
Where should I confirm packaging and edge detail?
Use the USG data/submittal sheet for the commodity code on your delivery ticket. Long edges are tapered for standard joint treatment; verify width and length on the master pack before cutting.