Fire ratings
Can 5/8" SHEETROCK® Brand
Gypsum Panels, FIRECODE Core (Type X) be used in fire rated
assemblies requiring 1/2" SHEETROCK® Brand Gypsum Panels, FIRECODE
C Core (Type C)?
Yes, in Wall assemblies ONLY - 5/8" SHEETROCK® Brand Gypsum Panels,
FIRECODE Core (Type X) can be substituted for 1/2" SHEETROCK® Brand
Gypsum Panels, FIRECODE C Core (Type C).
Does the above also apply to
shaft wall partitions?
Yes, 5/8" SHEETROCK® Brand Gypsum Panels, FIRECODE Core (Type X)
can be substituted for 1/2" SHEETROCK® Brand Gypsum Panels,
FIRECODE C Core (Type C).
I have noticed that in UL
listing of partitions using steel framing, the gypsum panels MUST
be installed vertically unless solid backing is used at the
horizontal board joint and these joints MUST be staggered - one
side of the wall to the other, is this true?
No, USG's SHEETROCK® Brand Gypsum Panels, FIRECODE and FIRECODE C,
are the ONLY panels presently classified by UL to be installed
horizontally with out the need for backing and the horizontal board
joints do NOT need to be staggered, except with multi-layered
applications. See UL Design Numbers U419 (non-load bearing) and
U423 (load bearing) for further information.