Building smarter, safer roofing solutions

By Dani Sheehan. 

Take an in-depth look at how USG Securock® Brand supports its people and products through innovation, technology and contractor feedback. 

In a recent episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Heidi J. Ellsworth sat down with USG Securock® Brand VP of Gypsum Materials Anson Johnson and Director of Manufacturing Jeff Grimland to explore how technology and contractor feedback are shaping the industry. Focused on the evolution of Securock® Roof Boards and the manufacturing strategies behind them, USG remains committed to innovation, safety and connecting to the needs of contractors. 

Investing in people: Safety and innovation inside the plant 

With more than 120 years of manufacturing expertise, USG leads with a people-first approach, investing in technologies that create safer, more efficient workplaces. From AI-powered systems that oversee machinery operations to forward-thinking safety programs, the company’s internal culture is deeply rooted in protecting and empowering employees. 

“We’re using vision systems to monitor parts of the process, and the programming behind the vision system knows what the standard is,” Jeff explained. “And if material’s out of place, employees aren’t where they’re supposed to be. We can control the machinery based on what the cameras are looking at. That’s just one example, and that’s leading to a safer work environment to help us take care of our employees.” 

AI-driven safety is also extending to other critical operations like forklift control. USG is actively partnering with major equipment suppliers to implement new safeguards that prevent collisions and reduce risks in the plant environment. 

Listening to the field: Smarter products for faster results 

That same culture of care extends to USG’s contractor partners. By staying close to the needs of roofers in the field, the company continues to adapt its product offerings to make installation safer, faster and more efficient.  

“We make four by eight sheets of roofing material, and many of our customers came and said, ‘We need that cut in half. We need four by fours because of roof placement and weight and traversing across the roof,” Anson shared. “We’re listening to our contractors and asking, ‘How can we make them more successful?’” They now offer a four-by-four panel option inspired by that feedback, which is just one example of how USG uses contractor input to drive real-world improvements. 

The development of UltraLight technology is another great example. Designed to reduce weight without compromising strength, UltraLight products have transformed how crews handle and install roofing cover boards.  

Reflecting on his observations in the field as UltraLight technology has been adapted, Jeff said, “This technology is working its way through many of our product families and product offerings. And customers appear to like it, and they appear to be more efficient and productive because of it.” 

Lighter boards mean crews can work faster, reduce physical strain and get more done in less time. It’s a direct result of the company’s mission to meet contractors where they are and help them meet today’s jobsite demands. 

Read the transcript or LIsten to the podcast to learn more about USG Securock® Brand’s commitment to safety and innovation.