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Community and Q&A

How to Fireblock Basement Walls

aberrant | Posted in General Questions on

I’m in the middle of finishing my basement and I’m trying to figure out the best way to fireblock the exterior walls. I have a 10″ foundation wall with 1.5″ of foam and then my 2×4 wall will sit in front of the foam. Should I screw drywall to the bottom of the floor joists butting up against and between the sill plate and top plate of the wall or is there a better way? Attaching a picture for reference.

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Replies

  1. Expert Member
    MALCOLM TAYLOR | | #1

    aberrant,

    That would work, as would adding a 2"x4" on the outside of you new stud wall at the top.

    1. aberrant | | #3

      Thanks Malcolm,

      Like this? I'd imagine I would need to have it turned on its edge so it fills the entire height of the gap. I like that better I have a bunch of wood left over that I can use.

      1. Expert Member
        MALCOLM TAYLOR | | #4

        I was more suggesting a continuous piece attached to the exterior of the stud wall above the foam.

        I'm not that familiar with your code, but suspect you may need to cover the top of the foam. Maybe someone with more knowledge of the requirements can chime in on this.

  2. Deleted | | #2

    Deleted

  3. Expert Member
    Akos | | #5

    I would extend the top plate all way back to the concrete. For example you can use a 2x6 top plate or a ripped piece of 3/4 ply.

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