i have to build a 88ft long firewall in a strip center 88ft long 14ft tall… no mechanicals will be in the wall… i usually use 2×4 metal studs but most of these walls are 40-50ft and under 10ft… no real price difference to go to 2×6 metal studs (maybe $200 more) 16 or 24 centers? (again maybe $200 difference)
what gauge should i use and 2×4 or 2×6 (gets 5/8 firerock (drywall) on both sides)
thanks in advance for any opinions
pony
Replies
2x4's ..19.2 centers is what I have seen mostly. We did double hung 5/8 rock.
Heavy gage studs with blocks of short stud cuts where needed
break out the black diamonds
Spheramid Enterprises Architectural Woodworks
Repairs, Remodeling, Restorations.
This is what we did in mall separation walls.
20 ga. studs @ both 16 and /or 24.
Reinforcing bar in the knockouts @ 4 and 10 ft, lapped and wired to make the walls rigid.
Remodeling Contractor just outside the Glass City.
Quittin' Time
check USG website--they will have all this info. I believe you will find that you need 20ga 3 5/8 studs,24" o.c. for a 1 hr rating.(taller walls or different ratings,check USG)
Check your code requirements first. Your building officials and jurisdiction will determine what you must use. Such as:
http://database.ul.com/cgi-bin/XYV/template/LISEXT/1FRAME/index.htm
Click on Fire Resistive Assemblies and Systems.
You may also be required to use deflection upper trck instead of standard top track in order to deal with roof movements.
We did something similar. Fire rating required double layer 5/8 type X GWB, heavy guage studs, (PITA to cut unles you use a chop saw) due to height and reinforcing bars at the top and bottom knockouts. Recall the bar was chicago bar. Pass it thru vertical and then spin it onto its back. What a dif!.
F.