Fire Resistance

The durability and versatility of prefinished Gridstone ceiling panels

Mar 7, 2024

Gridstone gypsum ceiling panels are USDA approved and install easily in standard exposed grid systems

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From commercial kitchens and food-processing facilities to hospitals and schools, suspended ceilings are a popular design choice given their versatility and ease of installation. These ceilings are typically constructed using a 15/16" exposed metal grid system suspended with wires from the building structure. The ceiling panels create a finished appearance while still providing access to the plumbing, electrical, fire suppression and other equipment located above.

National Gypsum Company, through its affiliate Gold Bond Building Products, LLC, provides three variations of Gold Bond® Gridstone® gypsum ceiling panels, each offering unique benefits based on project location.

  • Gridstone® Gypsum Ceiling Panels feature a sturdy vinyl laminate with a smooth, durable, washable surface. They are USDA approved and suitable for use in kitchens and food-service areas.
  • Gridstone® CleanRoom Gypsum Ceiling Panels feature a vinyl laminate on the top and the bottom and sealed edges to help maintain low levels of airborne particulates in clean rooms, server rooms and other areas requiring high levels of cleanliness.
  • Gridstone® Hi-Strength Ceiling Panels are 40% lighter than standard gypsum ceiling panels for easier installation. These panels, which also feature a vinyl laminate, are USDA approved and suitable for use in kitchens and food-processing areas.

Aesthetics meets functionality

Backed by a 15-year limited warranty, Gridstone ceiling panels feature a noncombustible gypsum core and a 2-mil, vinyl laminate, which combines high light reflectance with easy cleanability.

“Gridstone panels are ideal for interior commercial ceilings, as well as unexposed exterior ceiling applications, such as soffits and parking garages. And because the panels are factory finished with a sturdy vinyl laminate, they do not require painting.”

Matt Gallagher

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Matt Gallagher

Gypsum Systems Product ManagerGold Bond Building Products, LLC

Advantages of Gridstone ceiling panels

  • Easily install in standard exposed grid systems
  • Score and snap cleanly
  • Eliminate need for additional finishing with vinyl laminate
  • Resist sagging and warping due to a rigid gypsum core
  • Available in both 2' × 2' and 2' × 4' panel sizes
  • Available in either white or black panels


In addition, all Gridstone gypsum ceiling panels have achieved UL GREENGUARD Gold certification. UL GREENGUARD certified products are certified to UL GREENGUARD standards for low chemical emissions, contributing to healthier indoor air quality.


The right ceiling panel for your project

Suspended ceilings are great options for various commercial applications due to their versatility, functionality and aesthetic appeal.

  • Ceiling panels for kitchens and food-service areas: From school cafeterias to large commercial kitchens, Gridstone Gypsum Ceiling Panels provide a USDA-approved ceiling solution that’s durable and easy to clean. Functionally, suspended ceilings provide easy access for wiring, air ducts and other utilities, making maintenance and repairs more efficient without disrupting the workspace.
  • Ceiling panels for hospitals: Suspended ceilings with washable, mold-resistant Gridstone Hi-Strength Ceiling Panels contribute to a cleaner and more hygienic environment in healthcare settings. Functionally, the suspended grid system allows for the integration of medical equipment and facilitates changes as needed.
  • Ceiling panels for clean rooms and server rooms: In areas requiring high levels of cleanliness, Gridstone CleanRoom Gypsum Ceiling Panels feature a vinyl laminate on the top and the bottom and sealed edges to help maintain low levels of airborne particulates. Functionally, concealing wiring, plumbing and HVAC systems above the ceiling panels helps maintain a polished and uncluttered appearance.
GB Gridstone Brochure
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Gridstone gypsum ceiling panels are also a convenient and versatile choice for retail projects, such as shops and restaurants.


Meeting code requirements with Class A, fire-resistant ceiling panels


Gridstone Gypsum Ceiling Panels and Gridstone CleanRoom Gypsum Ceiling Panels have Class A flame-spread and smoke developed indices and can achieve 1-1/2-hour and 2-hour fire ratings in specific UL designs.

Need more information or assistance with determining the right Gridstone gypsum ceiling panel for your next project? Contact the technical experts on National Gypsum’s 1-800-NATIONAL® Construction Services team.