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Fire-rated drywall partitions: what a GC should confirm before bidding

A fire-rated wall is a tested assembly. The board, studs, fasteners, joints and penetrations all have to match the listed design.

The assembly is what carries the rating

Fire ratings come from tested assemblies, usually identified by a listed design number on the drawings or wall-type schedule. Type X or Type C board alone does not make a wall rated. The layers, stud type and spacing, fasteners and joint treatment must follow the listed design.

  • Listed design or assembly number for each rated wall type
  • Number of board layers and board type on each side
  • Stud size, gauge and spacing called for in the assembly
  • Fastener type and spacing
  • Insulation requirements, if the design includes them

Where the wall has to go

Rated partitions usually have to run continuously to the structure above, not stop at a ceiling. That affects framing, sequencing and coordination with ceiling work and the trades above.

  • Height of the wall: to deck, to a rated ceiling or as noted on the drawings
  • Head-of-wall joints and who provides the rated joint system
  • Penetrations by mechanical, electrical and plumbing trades
  • Who provides firestopping at penetrations and joints

Inspections and finishing

Rated walls are commonly inspected before they are closed or finished, so the schedule should allow for that. Taping and finishing still follow the finish level in the specification.

Mark rated walls and scope responsibilities clearly in the bid so nothing is assumed to be by someone else.

Send the wall types with the plans

When we bid, we price each wall type from the schedule and flag missing assembly numbers or conflicts so they are resolved before the contract. Send the plans through the contact page for a free written estimate.

Also see: Drywall finishingAll articlesCapabilities

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Questions

Before you send the plans

Have a question we didn't answer? Call (954) 416-0828 or email info@promisinginteriors.com.

Does Type X board make a wall fire rated?

No. The rating comes from the full tested assembly, including studs, layers, fasteners and joints, not from the board type alone.

Who usually provides firestopping?

It varies by project and is often a separate scope. The bid should state whether it is included.

Do fire-rated walls need to go to the deck?

Often yes, but it depends on the assembly and the drawings. Confirm the required wall height on the wall-type schedule.

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Framing, drywall and finishing for general contractors, property managers and home builders across Broward, Palm Beach and Miami-Dade. Estimates are free.