SHEETROCK Paper-Faced Metal Bead Effectively and Efficiently Prevents Corner Cracking

CHICAGO September 6, 2007 -- Builders, contractors and homeowners all agree that corner cracking is unsightly--and that this small but annoying problem can easily damage hard-earned reputations. Yet a simple solution exists to combat corner cracking and to help builders and contractors avoid costly callbacks: USG Corporation's (NYSE: USG) SHEETROCK™ brand paper-faced metal bead. Made with strong paper tape laminated to a sturdy, rust-resistant metal form and backed by a limited lifetime warranty for long-term performance, SHEETROCK paper-faced metal bead effectively and efficiently creates beautiful, problem-free and crack-free corners.

Providing superior resistance to edge cracking and chipping despite normal building movement and everyday wear and tear, SHEETROCK paper-faced metal bead ensures excellent adhesion of joint compounds, textures, and paints to produce a strong, smooth finish. It also offers high-quality straight lines for interior architectural features, and comes in a variety of trims to maximize design flexibility. A unique paper tape "nose coating" resists scuffing and fuzzing from knives and sanding during installation.

Paper-Faced Metal Bead

"This is a classic example of how small decisions made upfront by builders and contractors can pay huge dividends with homeowners down the road," said USG Residential Segment Marketing Manager Drew Clausen. "SHEETROCK paper-faced metal bead not only installs more easily than bare metal bead, but it protects reputations and minimizes callbacks from dissatisfied homeowners. It's a win-win situation for everyone involved."

The Paper-Faced Solution
When bare metal bead is attached to a drywall corner, the nails or screws used to hold it in place penetrate both the drywall and the framing. If the wood warps, shrinks or swells, the fasteners pull and stress the bead with it. This often results in both a corner crack and a homeowner callback.

In contrast, SHEETROCK paper-faced metal bead is attached directly to the drywall itself using the bonding strength and flexibility of joint compound instead of nails or screws. The special paper facing adheres superbly to joint compounds, textures and paints, and since fasteners are not needed, installation and corner alignment are easier. As a result, minor shifts in the frame do not affect the bead and there are no nail pops.

"SHEETROCK paper-faced metal bead is the optimal solution for producing beautiful, sturdy, interior corners that will withstand the wear and tear of normal building use," said Clausen. "They install quickly and easily, and with USG's limited lifetime warranty against corner cracks, builders and contractors are guaranteed trouble-free, crack-free corners."

For additional information on SHEETROCK paper-faced metal bead, please call 800-USG-4YOU (800.874.4968) or visit www.usg.com/pfbead.

USG Corporation is a Fortune 500 manufacturer and distributor of high-performance building systems through its United States Gypsum Company, USG Interiors, Inc. and L&W Supply Corporation subsidiaries. Headquartered in Chicago, the company serves the residential and non-residential construction markets, repair and remodel construction markets, and industrial processes. USG's wall, ceiling, flooring and roofing products provide leading-edge building solutions for customers, and L&W Supply center locations efficiently stock and deliver building materials nationwide. For additional information, visit the USG Web site at www.usg.com.

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