I’m thinking of using a gypsum firewall system to meet requirements in Subsection 3.1.10. I have gotten many mixed reviews from architects and contractors. Some love them, some don’t. I have also heard that some AHJs will not accept them.
My question is: what are some of the pros and cons of using a gypsum firewall system?
I am dealing with a system that is used to protect storage tanks at one of our industrial facilities, this system is an outdoor deluge
NBC 2015 Div B-9.8.9.5. Treads 1) Stair treads of lumber, plywood or O-2 grade OSB within dwelling units shall be not less than 25 mm
My question is: Is there ever a time that access needs to be provided around an entire building?
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3 Responses
Can you be more specific about what they don’t like about them? The parapet requirements in 3.1.10.4. may make it difficult to use gypsum in some cases but otherwise, there are no reasons why you shouldn’t be able to use one and the cost of constructing one is probably a lot cheaper. I would imagine one of the biggest cost associated with constructing a masonry or concrete firewall is the labour costs.
Hi Nelson!
Thanks for the comments. To be honest, this one came right from me ha!
In my days as an AHJ, I got hung up on the fact that a firewall needs to be noncombustible. Even though gypsum is permitted in a noncombustible building, it is not noncombustible by definition…which made me question if these systems even met the code prescriptively.
And then as I went along, I noticed a whole whack of issues with the code in terms of the placement of the word noncombustible, and decided that perhaps I was getting stuck on a technicality that was not intended.
The main concern I’ve come across now, is penetrations. If the wall is uninterrupted as it was tested, then wonderful….but as soon as we start putting in doors and other penetrations it gets a bit tricky to find listed firestop assemblies as the technology is “new”.
In the US codes noncombustible means tested to ASTM E136, which is the Standard Test Method for Behavior of Materials in a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750°C. Sounds like fun HUH?!? Basically they take a sample, weigh it, heat it to just shy of 1400F and then weigh it again. If the sample doesn’t ignite or loose sufficient weight it is considered non-combustible. My understanding is that most type X gypsum boards pass this test. Hope that helps.