Innovation
Build sustainably and efficiently with lightweight EVOLVE drywall
The EVOLVE™ family of products addresses the real-world needs of today’s job site while advancing long-term sustainability goals
As National Gypsum Company marks its 100th anniversary in 2025, the company is honoring its century-long legacy of innovation by continuing to provide building materials that improve construction efficiency and performance. That legacy lives on with the launch of EVOLVE, a new family of lightweight gypsum boards from Gold Bond Building Products, LLC, an affiliate of National Gypsum Company.
“The construction industry is evolving, and so are the materials it relies on,” said Chris Whitmire, director of product marketing. “Architects and builders are under pressure to deliver projects faster, more efficiently and with a smaller environmental footprint. EVOLVE is designed to deliver on that expectation.”
Engineered to be lighter, more sustainable and easier to install, EVOLVE represents a forward-thinking approach to Type X drywall — without compromising the fire resistance, durability or code compliance that building professionals need and expect.
The EVOLVE family features three lightweight drywall products, each tailored to meet different job site needs.
- Gold Bond® EVOLVE 30™ Fire-Shield® Gypsum Board is a 5/8" lightweight drywall that includes a fire-resistant non-Type X gypsum core specially formulated to be up to 30% lighter and approved for single-layer gypsum board construction for 30-minute fire-rated or non-rated assemblies.
- Gold Bond® EVOLVE X™ Fire-Shield® Gypsum Board is a 5/8" lightweight drywall that features a fire-resistant Type X gypsum core specially formulated to be up to 20% lighter. It can be used for most Type C applications.
- Gold Bond® EVOLVE XP™ Fire-Shield® Gypsum Board is a 5/8" lightweight drywall that consists of a fire-resistant Type X gypsum core specially formulated to be up to 20% lighter. It can be used for most Type C applications and is mold-, mildew- and moisture-resistant and can be used anywhere moisture is a concern.
“EVOLVE allows architects to specify a sustainable board product that is easier on the environment and gives contractors a versatile, lightweight board product, which is easier to install,” Whitmire said. “The reduction in board weight also provides transportation efficiency.”
4 ways EVOLVE drywall supports high-performance, sustainable building
Developed to support efficient installations and sustainable specs, the EVOLVE line gives architects, contractors and builders a smarter way to build. From reducing environmental impact to simplifying installation, here are four ways EVOLVE supports high-performance building without compromise.
1. Lightweight for easier handling and faster construction
EVOLVE boards are up to 20% lighter than traditional 5/8" Fire-Shield® Gypsum Board, making them easier to lift, carry and install, especially in overhead applications. This lighter weight supports faster job site progress, helps reduce installer fatigue and improves overall efficiency.
Features such as GridMarX® guide marks with MaX 12® and MaX 16® optimized fastener patterns help reduce material costs and increase jobsite productivity, while score-and-snap workability further streamlines the installation process.
2. Versatile performance that doesn’t compromise
Despite having a lighter weight, EVOLVE X and EVOLVE XP deliver excellent fire resistance with a Type X core and are an approved component in specific UL fire-rated designs.
EVOLVE is an ideal choice for both commercial and residential applications, including steel- or wood-framed walls and ceilings. The boards are dimensionally stable, resist warping and buckling, and maintain integrity under changing humidity or temperature.
In addition, thanks to its mold-, mildew- and moisture-resistant PURPLE® face paper and SPORGARD® technology and core, EVOLVE XP can be used as tile backer in areas with high humidity, such as toilet or sink areas, and wall and ceiling areas above tile in tubs and showers
3. Responsibly manufactured for today’s sustainable building standards
In addition to featuring 100% recycled paper on the face and back sides of the gypsum board, all EVOLVE products are made using a more sustainable manufacturing process that helps:
- Conserve water
- Reduce energy use
- Lower carbon emissions
- Improve transportation efficiency
This approach contributes to industry-wide efforts to reduce embodied carbon and promote responsible material sourcing.
4. Backed by industry-leading sustainability certifications
EVOLVE products come with HPDs and EPDs, making it easier to meet the requirements of green building programs such as LEED, WELL and Living Building Challenge.
To help support the well-being of building occupants, all EVOLVE products qualify as a low-VOC emitting material and are UL GREENGUARD Gold certified, meeting California Specification 01350 for indoor air quality.
"National Gypsum supports architects, builders and designers by providing thorough sustainability documentation for EVOLVE X and EVOLVE XP gypsum boards, ensuring the transparency necessary for informed material selection."
Chris Whitmire
Chris Whitmire
Director of Product MarketingNational GypsumResource Alert: Explore our comprehensive glossary of environmental documentation key terms.
Leading the evolution of sustainable, high-performance products
The EVOLVE family of drywall products is designed to meet the demands of modern building, offering the performance you expect with the environmental benefits you need.
Whether you’re focused on reducing material weight, improving installation efficiency or specifying products with verified sustainability attributes, EVOLVE provides a smarter solution.
