Ontario Building Code Drywall Fire Separation Between Condo Units

[Barty-B]

Hey gang, quick question about Onatrio Building Code: Does the code require two sheets of 5/8" x-fire rated or two sheets of 3/4" between condo units?

Thanks for any help. Google isn't as straight-forward as one would think.

Cheers,
Bart

 

[Inspector Gadget]

Assuming this is a part 9 building, look at the back of the code book for the tables showing fire resistance and sound transmission.

In all honesty, it's hard to answer because we need to know if this is a part 9 or part 3 building, and what the required fire-resistance rating is.

 

[tmurray]

The code does not require specific materials, but it does require a fire separation meeting a certain time rating between the suites. Typically the requirement for the fire separation of 45 minutes or an hour would apply. There are probably hundreds of ways this can be accomplished and an infinite amount of ways they can be done wrong even with the right materials.

This depends on the design of the building. As always, if you are constructing/modifying, you should be referencing the plans approved by the building official.

 

[Plumb-bob]

These walls will also require a rating for sound, so the assembly must take both fire and sound resistance into consideration.

 

[Ask Bing Code]

1h fire separation is required between residential suites.

 

[Inspector Gadget]

1h fire separation is required between residential suites.

That's not always the case.

NBC 9.10.9.14(1) states that suites in residential occupancies can be separated by a 45-minute rating. The general requirements are that such suites are to be one storey.

NBC 3.3.4.2(2) also allows 45-minute separations if the building's 3.2.2 classification allows 45-minute floors.

That said, the reality is that most separations end up *being* 1-hour because of the added materials to achieve STC.

 

[Ask Bing Code]

 

[Inspector Gadget]

View attachment 14695

Yes, but apartments with one level *can* be 45-minute rated in some circumstances, both under Part 3 and Part 9.

 

[Ask Bing Code]

Yes, but apartments with one level *can* be 45-minute rated in some circumstances, both under Part 3 and Part 9.

Totally agree! However, It is rare to have one storey apartment.