Frequently Asked Questions

Q1.  Can FORTACRETE® Structural Panels be used on wood frame structures?

A1.  Yes.  The architect or engineer of record can use the physical property data to determine the suitability of FORTACRETE® Structural Panels in a wood frame structure.

Q2.  Where or how do I purchase FORTACRETE® Structural Panels?

A2.  To purchase FORTACRETE® Structural Panels, please email USG’s Structural Technologies Group at fortacrete@usg.com.

Q3.  If I have questions beyond what is shown on your web site, “www.fortacrete.com”, how do I get my questions answered?

A3.  We have an email address, “fortacrete@usg.com” that is monitored throughout the working day and we will be glad to answer your questions by email or phone as quickly as possible.  Also, we have a literature order form on the web site, that you can complete and submit electronically to get printed information and samples.

Q4.  Can I use regular drywall screws to attach FORTACRETE® Structural Panels to framing?

A4.  No.  The structural performance of FORTACRETE® Panels is based on a minimum #8 screw with a flat head such as Grabber Brand Flat Head Drival® Pilot Point Self Drilling Product #250 or #252.  The screws also need to be corrosion protected to provide long term performance.  The use of wing points on the screw is also recommended to prevent the panel from riding-up on the screw threads when being driven into the framing.

Q5.  Are FORTACRETE® Structural Panels code approved?  How do I know if it is suitable for use in constructing building floors?

A5.  USG has applied for code approval from ICC and acceptance is expected in the third quarter of 2006.  FORTACRETE® Structural Panels meet the requirements of ICC ES Acceptance Criteria AC318 and AC319, the performance criteria that governs this type of product and end use.  All of the tests supporting this claim have been conducted by recognized third party testing companies.  The USG Structural Technologies Group staff can provide test reports and other data to assist you in meeting the needs of local code officials.

Q6.  Is FORTACRETE® Structural Panel warranted?

A6.  FORTACRETE® Structural Panel is warranted to be free of defects in the manufacture of the material and meets all the technical specifications claimed in FORTACRETE® Structural Panel and Floor System Submittal Sheet, SCP3, and the current Installation Specification for the FORTACRETE® Structural Panel Floor/Ceiling System, SCP6.

Within 30 days of the time of discovery of any problem with the FORTACRETE® Structural Panel email and write to us and include a brief description of the problem.  Also include the sales receipt, invoice or other evidence indicating the date of the installation.  Please email us at fortacrete@usg.com  and mail to:

USG Corporation
Structural Technologies Group
21925 Field Parkway, Suite #245
Deer Park, Illinois, 60010

USG will replace the product in the affected area of the building or refund the purchase price.
 
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary by state.

Q7.  How long can I leave FORTACRETE® Structural Panels exposed to the elements before I need to protect it?

A7.  While the FORTACRETE® Panel is moisture and freeze/thaw resistant, USG recommends that the panel is not exposed to moisture and freeze thaw conditions for more than six months from the time of installation.

Q8.  Can FORTACRETE® Structural Panels be used in other areas of a building such as roofs and walls?

A8.  USG warrants that the FORTACRETE® Structural Panel will meet the physical and system performance properties as stated in its current literature and specifications.  The only system tested to date is for floor applications.  Assessing the acceptability of its use in other areas is the responsibility of the owner or design professional and can only be based on the current properties of the FORTACRETE® Panel. 

Q9.  Does FORTACRETE® Structural Panel come in other sizes, length, width, or thickness?

A9.  No.  Only a panel ¾” x 4’ x 8’ size is available at this time.

Q10.   Do you offer technical assistance regarding the design and specification of FOTRACRETE® Structural Panels for either planning a new building or conversion of a building from a competing floor system to the FORTACRETE® Floor System?

A10.  Yes.  We encourage you to contact us early in the design process, so that we can help you in planning or converting a project to this new way to construct floors.