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O.K. for starters there’s only 6 codes and 1/2 million interpretations in the U.S. But soon to be 1 code with the 1/2 million interpertations. I am only referencing the BOCA and CABO codes. This code requirement is one of most misunderstood and misused applications of the code. I won’t get to picky about terminolgy, but there are no “firewalls” in single family detached dwelling units. BOCA requires a fire rated separation in garages located beneath habitable rooms only, CABO does not. And as far as attached garages there are no fire rating requirements, just seperation or as Pete stated “fire break”. The required minimum seperation is 1/2″ drywall or eqivalent. The seperations are for adjacent walls and the attic area. The attic can be done by continuing the adjacent wall to the roof or completely drywalling the ceiling of the garage.
Of course you have to check for any state or local ammendments to these sections of the code, but I think it’s important to now what’s there to start with. And I would never be critical of someone exceeding code requirements. But it should be their own choice.
Next issue to “fire door” or not! Keith
Replies
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For an attached garage WITHOUT a room above, what are the requirements with regard to fire-rated walls/ceilings of that space.
B
*B.A call to your LOCAL building inspector will give the proper requirements in your jurisdiction.In North America, there must be a least a dozen different requirements and a million interpretations.
*the basic idea for a fire break is drywall from floor to roof on the wall that seperates the garage from the home. However, a call to your local bulding dept. will usually clear up the details you need to know.Pete Draganic
*B.Often termed in "hour" ratings, a firewall will require a minimum of one layer of 5/8th inch "Schedule-X" fire rated sheetrock from floor to roof in an occupancy such as the one listed. It is not uncommon to see a double layer required.Firetaped of course. Do seek local code advise prior to construction.
*O.K. for starters there's only 6 codes and 1/2 million interpretations in the U.S. But soon to be 1 code with the 1/2 million interpertations. I am only referencing the BOCA and CABO codes. This code requirement is one of most misunderstood and misused applications of the code. I won't get to picky about terminolgy, but there are no "firewalls" in single family detached dwelling units. BOCA requires a fire rated separation in garages located beneath habitable rooms only, CABO does not. And as far as attached garages there are no fire rating requirements, just seperation or as Pete stated "fire break". The required minimum seperation is 1/2" drywall or eqivalent. The seperations are for adjacent walls and the attic area. The attic can be done by continuing the adjacent wall to the roof or completely drywalling the ceiling of the garage.Of course you have to check for any state or local ammendments to these sections of the code, but I think it's important to now what's there to start with. And I would never be critical of someone exceeding code requirements. But it should be their own choice. Next issue to "fire door" or not! Keith