NASCLA Accredited Commercial General ContractorFinishesEasy
A contractor is installing drywall in a commercial office. To comply with fire codes for a rated wall assembly, which type of gypsum board must be used?
- ARegular gypsum board
- BSound-reducing gypsum board
- CMoisture-resistant gypsum board
- DType X gypsum board
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Type X gypsum board
Type X gypsum board (fire-rated drywall) contains special additives, typically fiberglass, in its core to increase its fire resistance. It is specifically designed and tested for use in fire-rated wall and ceiling assemblies to meet building code requirements.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Regular gypsum board does not have the enhanced fire resistance required for rated wall assemblies.
- B. Sound-reducing gypsum board (QuietRock, etc.) is for acoustic performance, not primarily fire resistance.
- C. Moisture-resistant gypsum board (greenboard) is for high-humidity areas, not fire resistance.
Type X Gypsum Board
A fire-resistant type of gypsum board containing special additives, usually fiberglass, in its core to enhance its resistance to fire, typically used in fire-rated wall and ceiling assemblies.
- Fire-rated
- Contains fiberglass
- For rated assemblies
Memory trick: For a 'fire-rated wall', choose 'Type X' gypsum board, it's got that 'extra' fire protection.