Introduction
Gold Bond® BRAND SoundBreak™ Gypsum Board addresses the growing need for higher Sound Transmission Class (STC) wall partitions, driven by trends such as high-density housing and home theater systems. It offers a cost-effective solution for constructing high STC wall assemblies that are thinner than traditional methods.

Market Trends
The rise in land costs and high-density multi-family housing necessitates improved sound insulation. Additionally, the demand for sound control in commercial buildings like schools and hospitals, along with sophisticated home theater systems, further drives this need.

Product Description
SoundBreak Gypsum Board is a 5/8" thick acoustically enhanced gypsum board with a viscoelastic damping polymer between two high-density mold-resistant gypsum boards. It is used in wall assemblies to reduce sound transmission between rooms.

Key Features and Benefits

• Provides high STC values with thinner wall partitions, increasing usable floor space.
• Cost-efficient and easy to finish like standard gypsum board.
• Independently tested using ASTM E90 procedures.
• Simple installation without the need for clips or channels.

Limitations

• Avoid exposure to excessive moisture and temperatures above 125°F (52°C).
• Not a substitute for 5/8" Type X gypsum board in fire-rated assemblies.
• Must be stored dry and off the ground to prevent mold growth.

Installation Guidelines

• Follow ASTM C 840 and Gypsum Association standards.
• Stagger joints and seal perimeter gaps with acoustical sealant.
• Limit wall penetrations and seal them properly.

Technical Data

• Available in widths of 4' and lengths of 8', 9', 10', and 12'.
• Complies with ASTM C 1396 and has a flame spread of 15.
• Offers mold and mildew resistance with a score of 10 in ASTM D3273 tests.

Acoustical Performance
SoundBreak Gypsum Board provides STC ratings ranging from 53 to 67, depending on the wall assembly configuration.

Conclusion
Gold Bond® BRAND SoundBreak™ Gypsum Board is an effective solution for modern construction needs, offering superior sound insulation, ease of installation, and enhanced mold resistance.

Specifications
The document outlines installation specifications for gypsum board systems, detailing the use of SoundBreak and Fire-Shield Gypsum Boards applied vertically to steel studs with specific spacing and screw types. Configurations involve staggered vertical joints and glass fiber in the stud cavity for sound and fire resistance.

Procedures
Installation involves applying gypsum boards to steel studs with specified screw types and spacing, emphasizing the importance of staggering vertical joints and using glass fiber insulation within the stud cavities.

Standards and Recommendations
The document suggests using SoundBreak Gypsum Board as either a face or base layer without affecting the STC rating and specifies maintaining a minimum air space in certain configurations.

Warranty and Limitations
National Gypsum provides a limited warranty ensuring products are free from defects at shipment. The warranty excludes other express or implied warranties, limiting liability to product replacement or credit not exceeding the original purchase price. Claims must be submitted within 30 days of defect discovery, with legal actions limited to one year from discovery.

Contact Information
Contact details for regional offices and technical support, including phone and fax numbers for customer service across the United States, are provided.