Fire Separation

1/17/2013 at 7:11:23 PM

Good evening sir/mamme:

To answer your question >>>>most definately 5/8" fire rated gypsym board is required as per fire code and I would also suggest if the basement is being finished with the intent to lease that you have fire dampers installed (as per code) although you would have to talk to the township which you are dealing with to find out the requirements as they vary from township to township or city to city.

If the project is being done without permits you do not have to reveil who you are just ask as a anonomous caller although permits should be obtained (recommended) to protect yourself and your clients

Sincerely

Frank Waines

Waines World General Contracting

1/17/2013 at 8:09:45 PM

With a block wall you dont need 5/8" drywall, but if you have access to the ring joist, that should be drywalled and taped, if not done so from the builder.

1/17/2013 at 9:24:49 PM

I appologise as I said it depends on the area. Obviously in T.O it is a requirement by code where 2 buildings are attached.

Frank

1/17/2013 at 9:29:49 PM

To this question, I must let you know that they are brand new towns, and the builder didn't put the drywall up. That's why I am questioning it, they did fireboard the opposite wall.

1/18/2013 at 6:04:48 AM

I see....I understand why you are asking and to the best of my knowledge I have tried to answer although I would still advise asking the local township or city to find out what their requirements are. Wish I could help you more.

Sincerely

Frank Waines

Waines World General Contracting

P.S and as you know they get away with alot on inspections so I wouldnt trust what they have had passed, protect yourself and find out from the city on this one lol.

1/18/2013 at 8:55:02 AM

When in doubt always go more then the code or what you may think its.

The small difference in price I would go with fire rated board.

1/18/2013 at 9:06:27 AM

Thanks guys.

1/18/2013 at 6:07:06 PM

In a basement the concrete block foundation wall should give you the required fire separation between units. If there are framed walls above the foundation wall that make up the party wall for the floors above you may need to install 5/8" Type 'X' Gypsum at the ring joist to make sure that fire cannot pass through the floor system into the party wall cavity.

Without seeing your specific job site it is hard to say exactly what would be required.

The attachment shows a typical party wall section with a 1.0 hr fire rating.

1/19/2013 at 1:02:09 PM

For the extra little cost between 1/2" or 5/8" drywall I would put up 5/8", although it is not required.