CertainTeed, a leading North American manufacturer of sustainable building materials and a subsidiary of Saint-Gobain, announced the expansion of its Palatka, Florida gypsum wallboard facility. Following this investment, the site will become the largest gypsum plant in the world, doubling its production capacity and strengthening CertainTeed’s position as the most trusted supplier of gypsum wallboard in North America.
The expansion represents a significant commitment to competitive advantage, community growth, and leading the transformation of the construction industry through sustainable solutions. By increasing production scale and product offerings, the Palatka plant will play a vital role in meeting demand for high-quality gypsum products amid the ongoing U.S. housing shortage, which may require as many as 1.7 million new dwellings annually through 2030.
Competitive Advantage and Industry Leadership
The expanded facility will produce CertainTeed’s full line of gypsum wallboard products locally in the southeast United States, ensuring greater customer responsiveness and supply reliability. With both deep-water port and rail access, the site provides an efficient distribution hub for the rapidly growing regional market.
As part of Saint-Gobain North America’s growth and leadership strategy, this project underscores CertainTeed’s industry leadership by:
- Doubling production volume to meet future demand.
- Offering a complete residential and commercial wallboard product portfolio manufactured closer to key markets.
- Enhancing logistics with proximity to customers and multiple distribution channels.
Quality, Safety, and Sustainability
The expansion incorporates best-in-class sustainable technologies, positioning the company as a leader in light and sustainable construction. Key advancements include a new industrial dryer that reduces energy use - by 25% in the most energy-intensive phase of gypsum production. Additional upgrades include a heat recovery system that lowers energy and water consumption by reusing condensate, and advanced process control sensors that help CertainTeed elevate product quality while optimizing energy usage. Design elements also support future zero-carbon production, aligning with Saint-Gobain’s 2050 net-zero goals. The plant continues to recycle gypsum and apply circular economy practices.
Economic and Community Impact
Since opening in 2001, the Palatka plant has been one of the largest employers in Putnam County. The expansion will create an additional 110 jobs, further strengthening the local economy.
CertainTeed is also committed to community investment and philanthropy. In addition to national partnerships, such as its ongoing support of Susan G. Komen—donating a portion of GlasRoc® Sheathing revenue and committing a minimum annual contribution of $120,000—the company supports various local organizations like the Putnam County Cancer Foundation.
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