Got some pretty vague plans here, It’s a commercial space with some firewalls. I know they have to be caulked etc, but A: should the 2 layers of 5/8 sheet rock be hung perpendicular to each other?,
and B: does the first layer need to be taped? ( to my mind it should be, but wonders never cease)
Finally C: can a 20′ long 12′ high steel stud partition wall with 1/2″ drywall on both sides be spaced 24 o.c.( If not, how about about a 10′ high wall?)
Thanks to any and all, Patrick,.
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Replies
Check first if it's a UL Rated firewall. If it is, the UL code will telly you how to hang the board.
First layer does not have to be taped, but the the 2nd board has to overlap the first.
Yes, 1/2" on a 12 foot high wall is ok at 24" studs.
for 1hr wall here (commerical) they make me use 5/8 on each side... they use to make me use "fire mud" @$40 a bag....(makes about 2 gallons) seems everyone purchased one bag to have lay'n empty on the floor for the inspector to see and just put a few drops of red food color into regular mud for the rest.... inspector just wanted to see pink mud.... now they have gone to regular mud and firecaulk at any hole... commerical we about always hang vertical
p
Check with local Building Department and ask inspector what kind of "firewall" they require. They will usually tell you exactly how many layers they want, in what orientation, what mud, etc.
I have a customer with a retail store who was required to have a 3-hour rated partition. It's insane, but even a bunch of extra sheets of rock are cheaper than the wasted time fighting it. They wanted the inner layers caulked with fire caulk, not taped with mud. OK, no problem. Everybody was happy and we moved on.
DG/Builder