Gypcrete or gypsum concrete is a durable, fire-resistant material formed by mixing gypsum with cement and water. Contractors use the material as an underlayment compatible with sound-attenuating mats and flooring finishes like tile and hardwood. Gypcrete can also be poured on wood and metal subfloors and provides a flat self-leveling surface with customizable depth. Here’s how gypcrete is used for sustainable building:
Install Durable Subfloors
Gypcrete is a resilient formation that lasts several years with minimal maintenance. You can use it to install durable, crack-resistant underlayments on wood and metal subfloors. The material is also suitable for resurfacing worn-out concrete subfloors and provides a flat surface for convenient flooring installation. Gypsum concrete also provides better resilience against mold and moisture than traditional concrete. The material is also fire-resistant, thanks to the water of crystallization retained within its crystals. When heated, gypsum releases its water of crystallization as steam, which slows down the spread of flames. The material can help improve building safety and suit regions more prone to fire.
Improve Energy Efficiency
Gypcrete has a high thermal mass that provides a thermal barrier against heat transfer. You can use the material to regulate indoor temperatures and reduce the need for excessive heating or cooling. The thermal mass absorbs, stores, and slowly releases heat, reducing temperature fluctuations. Your floor takes longer to heat up during hot days, allowing the AC to maintain cool temperatures. During cold days, gypsum’s thermal conductivity retains heat inside your home, enhancing insulation and energy efficiency. The material is also compatible with radiant heating systems that let you heat floors evenly and simultaneously. You can use gypcrete to lower utility bills and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, which aligns with sustainability.
Reduce Waste Through Recycling
Gypsum is a naturally occurring, non-toxic mineral that can be recycled indefinitely without losing its properties. The waste generated in the production of gypsum can be reused, reducing environmental impact and the need for virgin resources. Gypcrete formations can be torn down and recycled or repurposed into new concrete mixes, reducing landfill waste. Producing gypcrete also requires less energy than traditional lime-based cement products because they involve lower calcination temperatures. The material is naturally abundant, so its extraction has a smaller environmental impact. Gypcrete pours are also self-leveling, which results in precise installation and minimal waste. The material can be poured on various subfloors for efficient retrofitting and minimal modifications during renovation projects.
Improve Air Quality
Gypcrete has low emissions making it a suitable underlayment for residential and business buildings. The material contributes to better indoor air quality and doesn’t release harmful VOCs associated with synthetic flooring. Gypsum is also naturally resistant to mold and mildew, which helps reduce the presence of such allergens in your home. The option helps create safe, comfortable living and working environments designed for occupant well-being. Consult your contractor about special additives used to absorb and neutralize indoor pollutants. Gypcrete is also lightweight and installation doesn’t involve mesh, rebar, or other materials, resulting in less transportation emissions.
Minimize Noise and Vibrations
Contractors use gypcrete underlayment to improve indoor acoustic performance and minimize impact and airborne noise. The material’s thermal mass increases the distance sound waves travel, reducing noise transmission. Gypcrete subfloors also provide a flat surface where you can install a sound mat for enhanced soundproofing. If you’re building a multistory building, such as a residential apartment or business complex, gypcrete can reduce crossover noise between floors. The option is suitable for dampening impact noise from foot traffic, dragged furniture, and dropped objects. By muffling noise, gypcrete lets you construct sustainable buildings that serve different businesses and can be repurposed with minimal renovations.
Find Premium Quality Gypsum Concrete Today
Gypsum’s benefits make it an ideal choice for sustainable buildings and constructions. The fire-retardant material can withstand heat, cold, mold, and foot traffic for several years. Speak to a reputable underlayment supplier today to find out more about gypsum concrete applications and benefits.