quick code question

Hi all,

Quick code question.

In a commercial setting, is it code compliant to have the following: A metal stud wall only finished on one side with drywall. The other side is left un-finished. It's behind a large appliance (really large), in which the appliance is not butt up against the studs. An air-gap of about 3 inches exists between the unfinished studs and the appliance. The air gap is then sealed with a piece of flashing on either side, so as the unfinished wall is not exposed to the workplace.

Is this compliant? I could find nothing in my local code that talks about this, but I would assume that because the opening is not 'open' to the workplace, it's ok?

Thanks all!

 

Not sure where you are, but it is possible the appliance must not be abutted to a combustible surface, which sheetrock would be, and thus is set away without backing and flashed on the edges. . I would check with the local code people if it is causing problems.

 

What size drywall did you use? Have to use 5/8". What kind of appliance is it? Is this a kitchen? Anyway I would have to say that that wouldn't pass code without drywall and frp. Doesn't matter if you have a gap it still is a fire issue. And Im sure it wouldn't meet electrical code either since you probably have exposed wires.

 

well, first off this is at my place of work, not my house. I raised the question to the person doing the work, as I know that in residential, this would not be to code.

There is no electrical in the wall in this location; what they are essentially going to do is to remove the drywall on one side of wall, and instead of the drywall covering the wall, they are going to push an appliance (It's more like a big cold box) up to the studs. so the wall will be drywalled in all areas, except the area where the coldbox will be pushed up against the studs.

The wall of the coldbox will not be fastened to the studs...it's just going to sit there. It's got support from the sides and also the top.

 

I get it. but the appliance has power correct? It puts off some sort of heat? If you have to have an inspection it wont pass without, at least, drywall.