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A Not Quite Accessible Attic Space

jar546

jar546

CBO
Joined
Oct 16, 2009
Messages
12,946
Location
Not where I really want to be
I found this to be interesting. In a new commercial building, the underside of the roof has gypsum on it. No big deal. The lower ceiling which would normally be ceiling tiles is going to be a hard ceiling with more gypsum. No big deal right? Well, here is the thing. There is no planned attic access and even if it did, you cannot access the attic because you cannot put any weight on the ceiling grid. They plan on putting in attic access only near the HVAC units so you have to work from a ladder below.
In this space is a lot of ductwork, plumbing, electrical, sprinkler and more. What is your thought on this type of setup?

IMG_3410.JPG IMG_3411.JPG
 
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Not against any written Codes, however, from a practical
maintenance \ repair view, ...it's going to be tough to repair
or replace stuff.......Typically, remove the ceiling grid
framing and access with a ladder or a lift.......Sheeeesh ! :eek:

This is where younger & smaller persons have an
opportunity.

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If the headroom is less than 30" no access (other than for the furnace) is required as long as there are no junction boxes or other items that require servicing. Working on the furnace from a ladder ........ the mechanical code is okay with that. A plywood tool platform next to the access that is located near the furnace would be a good idea.

A sprinkler head at the furnace is probably required.....and maybe throughout.

Code requires an access if the headroom is 30" or greater but the Code doesn't require the ability to go anywhere from that access unless there is a furnace.
 
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Normal? Somewhat common.

Normally there is nothing to access above the upper sheetrock ceiling
 
So again, why is the rock there in the first place? Is it exposed to view from below, what is the use of the space?
 
Maintenance and service work is going to be a pain & expensive due to this set up but can only require code minimum not common sense.o_O
 
Code does not prohibit it..... but the design tends to be problematic - condensate lines clog, Linesets leak, etc....

How do I gain access to a lineset or other item that gets a hole rubbed into it because of vibrations from the air handler.....I know it doesn't happen often, but it is still a man installed device. Squirrel cage goes bad and needs to be replaced --- how is that going to allow replacement parts or disassembly of air handlers.
 
What does the grid and tie manufactures say, how about the weight of wallboard? Wallboard in a 2’ by 4’ section is minimal, however when you have an entire floating grid ceiling of wallboard... Who is specifying the fastening pattern and is the track manufacture accepting field modifications of its track system?
 
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Keystone said:
What does the grid and tie manufactures say, how about the weight of wallboard? Wallboard in a 2’ by 4’ section is minimal, however when you have an entire floating grid ceiling of wallboard... Who is specifying the fastening pattern and is the track manufacture accepting field modifications of its track system?
Click to expand...

They do make grids for drywall attachment. It's different than the suspended ceiling tracks. It's little heavier. Seen it alot.
 
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