Where’s the Fire Blocking?
To the Editor:
The detail shown on page 39 of the
October 2001 issue (On the House,
“Finishing Basement Walls”) does not
indicate fire blocking at the intersection
between the wall and ceiling cavities,
as required by most building
codes. This is a commonly missed and
important fire and life safety item in
basement remodels. If you could help
get the word out, I would appreciate it.
Rowland Zoller, Plans Examiner
Thurston County Development Services
Olympia, Wash.
Paul Fisette responds: You make a great
point. The detail shown is how most people
design and build this wall. However,
technically it is incorrect and should
include fire blocking, as you mention. The
difference between this wall and