Fire-Resistant Partitions and Coverings

Types of Gypsum Wallboard (GWB)

• Fire-Rated GWB: used where fire-rated partitions or covering is required, with a core specially formulated with mineral additives to improve fire resistive quality
• Fire rating specified as 1-hour, 2-hour, 3-hour, and 4-hour, with 1-hour preventing fire and smoke from passing through the partition for at least one hour
• Most interior applications use 1-hour and 2-hour partitions

Water-Resistant GWB

• Used as backing for adhesive applied ceramic tile in moist areas, such as shower spaces
• Preferable to use Portland Cement Plaster or Glass Mesh Mortar instead of GWB where heavy-duty commercial shower-continuous wet is required
• Offers the same advantages as a traditional moisture-resistant board with added mold resistance in the core and paper

Moisture and Mold Resistant GWB

• Provides extra protection to fight against mold and mildew
• Suitable for all interior applications, including walls and ceiling or anywhere moisture and mold is a concern

Abuse-Resistant GWB

• Up to five times the impact resistance of regular wallboard
• Provides vapor barrier to prevent transmission of water vapor into exterior walls and ceiling spaces

Foil Backed GWB

• Provides vapor barrier to prevent transmission of water vapor into exterior walls and ceiling spaces

Pre-Finished GWB

• Available with various types of vinyl wall covering already applied
• Apply directly to studs or as a finish layer over gypsum board
• Ideal for most demountable partition systems

Sound Rating GWB

• Dramatically reduces sound transmission between rooms
• Used for interior wall assemblies, where sound transmission between rooms or dwelling units is a concern

Basic Components of GWB Partitions

• Framing: to which the gypsum wallboard is attached, main structure of the wall
• GWB: different types of GWB are available, gives the ultimate shape of the partition
• Trim: to cover corners and exposed edges of the frame
• Joint Treatment/Reinforcing tape: to conceal the joints and to give a finish look

This quiz covers the characteristics and specifications of fire-resistant partitions and coverings, including fire ratings and mineral additives.