Updates

2018 November

Fire Resistive Wall Construction

Q: Is the staggering of gypsum panel joints important in fire resistive wall construction? A: The staggering of gypsum panel joints in fire resistive construction is extremely important. Not staggering the joints may...

2018 October

Stopping & Blocking Fires & Drafts

Q: Can you explain the difference between draftstopping, fireblocking and firestopping? A: These three terms are defined and required by the International Building Code. They are significantly different and should not be confused. ...

2018 September

Membrane Protection

Q: Can you explain membrane protection in fire-resistive construction? A: The concept of membrane protection is based on the necessity to maintain fire protection when a membrane or one side of a fire-resistive...

2018 August

Joint Ridging in Drywall

Q: What can you tell me about ridges that may occur after I install and finish gypsum wallboard? A: That is a phenomenon called “joint ridging,” and these ridges generally appear along the...

2018 July

Wall Prioritization

Wall Prioritization Q: What can you tell me about wall prioritization? A: The term is typically used in regard to fire-resistive walls and buildings that fall under the International Building Codes. The intent...

2018 June

When Humidity Makes Wallboard Swell

Q: After I painted a recently finished wall clad with gypsum panels, I noticed depressions at the fastener locations. I know the wall did not have these imperfections prior to painting it. Can you explain...

2018 May

Fire Assemblies Defined

Q: How are “fire wall,” “fire barrier” and “fire partition” defined?? A: AAccording to the International Building Code, there are subtle but significant differences in those terms. Any discussion on these assemblies must...

2018 April

The Difference Between F and T

Q: Can you help me understand the difference between F and T ratings in firestop design? A: These ratings reflect completely different performance-based results that indicate the ability of a specific firestop to...

2018 March

EcoDemo

Q: Can you help me understand how building code–mandated sustainability requirements are affecting construction demolition and waste? A: Two existing building codes are having a significant impact on how construction demolition and waste...