UltraLight composite design at 1.25 lb/sq ft nominal weight per USG
Key features
Ceiling-oriented documentation including ICC-ES ESR-3365 per USG marketing
Tapered long edges compatible with Sheetrock joint treatment systems
Technical specifications
| R-Value | 0.45 |
|---|---|
| Thickness | 0.5 in |
| Width | 48.0 in |
| Length | 144.0 in |
| Coverage | 48.0 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
Twelve-foot drywall is a seam-reduction strategy when lifts, corridors, and hoists can accept the module: fewer horizontal joints can translate to faster finishing schedules and cleaner elevations on tall partition lines—when the building geometry actually supports the length.
Each UltraLight sheet spans forty-eight square feet; at USG’s nominal 1.25 lb per square foot, plan near sixty pounds per sheet for crew sizing and staging, still within the UltraLight value story versus heavier half-inch alternatives.
USG continues the same documentation pattern—ASTM C1396, UL surface-burning classification language, ICC-ES ESR-3365 for ceiling contexts, and GREENGUARD Gold—so your submittal package stays consistent across UltraLight lengths.
Protect tips and corners during delivery; long panels telegraph damage across an entire elevation. If hoist paths or stair towers cannot accommodate twelve feet, pivot to shorter stock even when the estimator preferred long modules.
Rated work still demands exact board-line matches from the UL directory; UltraLight without Type X markings is not a fire-resistance substitute unless the listing explicitly allows it.
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.