firestop in basement
#1
04-28-05, 05:34 PM
firestop in basement
Has anyone ever done firestopping in their basement remodel? We are getting ready to start our framing and want to know what the best approach is. We were planning on using 2x lumber between the top plate and concrete wall to block the air gap. Does it need to be PT if it contacts the concrete wall?
What is the best method to follow in installing this firestop? I haven't found any information on this in any basement remodel books. I know it is required in my city, but I am unsure what the easiest way to install it is.
Thanks!
What is the best method to follow in installing this firestop? I haven't found any information on this in any basement remodel books. I know it is required in my city, but I am unsure what the easiest way to install it is.
Thanks!
#2
05-11-05, 08:08 AM
I talked to the local inspectors and got the answer to my question, so I thought I would post it for anyone else who needs to know. They recommend using strips of 3/4 inch plywood. These strips are installed adjacent to the sill plate that is above the foundation and above the top plate of the new basement wall. My understanding is that the purpose of this wood is to seal the air gap between the new basement wall and the concrete wall so that a fire that starts in the wall cannot burn up and set the first floor on fire before it had a chance to burn though the basement wall and set off the smoke detector. It is required by 2000 IRC.
The process is to add any blocking, if needed, between the floor joists. Then the plywood is nailed up to the blocking or floor joists and the top plate nailed below that. Soffits also need to be sealed off with firestopping. Any pipes or conduit that extend into the joist cavities can be sealed using a spray on sealer for that purpose. Around the electrical panel, you can stuff fiberglass insulation around the wires or conduit so that it can be removed later to work on the panel.
The process is to add any blocking, if needed, between the floor joists. Then the plywood is nailed up to the blocking or floor joists and the top plate nailed below that. Soffits also need to be sealed off with firestopping. Any pipes or conduit that extend into the joist cavities can be sealed using a spray on sealer for that purpose. Around the electrical panel, you can stuff fiberglass insulation around the wires or conduit so that it can be removed later to work on the panel.
#3
05-11-05, 08:23 AM
widing It always pay to check with code first where you are when you do something to there in the home.Some places dont ask for that fire stop some do.
ED
ED
#4
05-11-05, 12:11 PM
if you are NOT required to do firestops
Then save yourself a lot of work and just stuff some cut to size fiberglass insulation in the joist spaces between the ceiling and the new wall top plate. You should be okay, especially if you wrap all the wiring with fiberglass.
