What Is A Fire Block In Framing
Fire-blocking is a firestop.
What is a fire block in framing. Its important to add solid wood blocking as well if floor joists intersect a wall so that the fire cant go up a wall and then sideways in between floor or ceiling joists. Blocking for wall framing are short pieces of 2 by 4 that you install between two joists of the basement ceiling. The bottom block stops the fire from getting into the wall cavity to begin with.
Being a handy homeowner doing the framing. If a fire starts within the wall the top block stops the fire from getting into the attic. In an unblocked balloon-framed building for example a fire that starts in the basement can rapidly travel up the stud.
During a fire that means flames harmful gasses and toxic smoke cannot spread as quickly. It works by dividing framing cavities into separate compartments slowing the passage of flames and combustion air. By sealing the pipe cable and duct penetrations you minimize airflow.
GREAT STUFF Fireblock Insulating Foam Sealant can save much more than energy costs. They also allow airflow which feeds a fire. Holes and gaps in wall and ceiling cavities allow a fire to spread rapidly.
During a remodel of this type of house it is wise to install fire blocking at the top and bottom of the stud walls. Basement walls that are framed up against the concrete foundation walls need to be fire blocked because there is a gap between the framing and the concrete wall. I am finishing my basement using standard wall framing 24 16 OC.
Fireplace framing with a prefab firebox has to be right so take care of the details. The permit from the building dept has a note stating Must fire block intersection of walls and ceiling. Learn the difference between fire-protective and fire-resistive-rated glass their fire-ratings applications and more.
