Originally Posted By: bnelson This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Anyone got the verbiage about fire barrier installation between multi-family attics on a structure built in '94? Wondering specifically if joints and edges have to be taped and mudded? Thx.
Originally Posted By: jpope This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
UBC 310.2.2 = 1 hr. construction at common walls & floor/ceiling for multi-family dwellings, two-family dwellings and townhouses.
UBC 708.3.1.2.1 = Separation walls to extend in parapet above roof OR common attic spaces sprinklered OR divided by draft stops & returns above separation walls.
Sealed gaps are addressed under UBC 708.2.1
UBC 709.7 deals with electrical boxes in separation walls.
-- Jeff Pope
JPI Home Inspection Service
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Originally Posted By: mboyett This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
I had this same question a few weeks ago while inspecting a condo. I contacted my local AHJ and a fire inspector informed me that No, the joints do not need to be taped/floated if the gap is 1/4" or less. That’s just my local jurisdiction so I’d recommend checking with your own.
Originally Posted By: mboyett This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
I think part of the confusion arises (at least for me) when trying to determine the difference between a ‘fire wall’ and a ‘draft stop’. I agree with all of the above statements regarding taping of fire rated assemblies used as true fire walls. I am also thinking that what I see in older condos is a ‘draft stop’ which requires different, less stringent construction methods. Unless one has the original construction drawings to determine whether a true fire wall was called for then it’s a hard call. Someone tell me I’m full of it, thank you.
