I’d like to insulate my basement workshop using 2″ foam board against the concrete walls. Since this is a workshop space I’d like to put up 1/2″ plywood on the walls instead of drywall. Is this acceptable per code or is the drywall required as a firestop?
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Only your AHJ can tell you for sure. Check with her.
aha! You are thinking where some places have requirements for fire spread protection
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Ok, you are going to have to help me out here. AHJ?
My concern is mainly with fire safety. From what I've read, the rigid foams are way to go for basement walls. The question is whether the plywood is sufficient as a firestop. If the drywall is not required I'd like to avoid the expense of putting up 2 layers of sheathing (drywall + plywood). In FHB #169 Andy Engel used plywood over foam board on the floor of a basement remodel. In that case 2 layers of 1/2" ply was used.
AHJ= Authority Having Jurisdiction (Building. Plumbing, Electrical inspectors, etc.)
Could be local or state. Look in the government section of your phone book. Simple code question are ussually answered over the phone.
Dave
Ok, it looks like I'm going to have to call my town office. Thanks for the input everyone.
depends on type of foam. Use an eps or xps - the pink or blue stuff, closed cell so it doesn't absorb moisture.
There is actually a panel that is laminated with both together, tho I haven't used it nor remember who makes it. There is also one with woood furring strips set into the foam so you can use tapcons to fasten the foam and have sopmething to set the screws into for the SR
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