Alright, I’ve asked everybody I know. I’m working on a response from the ICC code chat forum, and I’ve done as much internet research as I can. I still don’t understand what the fireblocking for stairs needs to be…
Drywall on the underside of the stairs makes sense…you don’t want the underside burn out.
Why does the code call for fireblocks at the top and bottom of stringers, when most stairs I’ve seen are built right on the deck, and extend up to a rim – both of which will stop fire from entering the stringer area.
I’ve heard people say that they block behind the skirt boards for fire blocking, not for solid nailing of trim? Is this necessary or am I missing something?
Justin Fink – FHB Editorial
Your Friendly Neighborhood Remodelerator
Replies
Is this going to be a full article?
I have ask several times about an article on fire drafting and fire blocking (which are different) for a single family home.
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A-holes. Hey every group has to have one. And I have been elected to be the one. I should make that my tagline.
We are doing an article on blocking in general. There will be some fire blocking included, and several of the guys I've talked to have said that they install blocking behind the skirts (for fire), but I haven't been able to get back in touch with any of them to explain why!Justin Fink - FHB Editorial
Your Friendly Neighborhood Remodelerator
blocking is done to prevent any chimney effects that occur during a fire - basic idea to contain the fire -extra blocking would help to maintain the integrity of the stringers - lot of guys get to the basement quick when the stairs fail during the fire
No chimneys, just like a wall. If you put drywall under the stringers and have the bottom of the stringer you've created a place for the fire to climb.
Maybe they figure whatever the toekick is made from could burn quicker than a 2x fireblock.