Back-blocking is designed to minimize ridging by placing butt joints between framing members . The drywall is hung perpendicular to the framing members, so that the butt ends can be reinforced along the back of each panel, behind the joint.
What does it mean to block drywall?
Blocks are spacers between studs such as where an interior wall attaches an exterior wall and for framing corners such as a “three-stud corner with blocking”. Blocking is used for panel edge supports such as sheets of drywall or plywood also called back blocking .
Is blocking required for walls?
So any sheathing edges that don't land on standard framing (studs, plates, windows/doors) need to be supported by blocking. All edges of wall sheathing must be supported by and nailed to framing. This edge didn't land on plates, so install blocking to support it.
Where do I need blocking for drywall?
Normally blocking is nailed to the top plate of the wall during the framing phase , but it's often missing. If you have to add blocking and don't have room to swing a hammer, drive screws into the blocking at an angle from below. Check out these 20 tips for working with drywall to make your next build or repair easier.
Do interior walls have fire blocks?
Although interior walls must be fireblocked , there is no 4′ requirement in the IRC code. They must be fireblocked at the platelines and any spaces that exceed 10′ heights. 4′ blocks are typically for blocking edges of exterior sheathing laid horizontally, and aren't intended to serve as fireblocks.
Do ceiling joists need blocking?
Those standard lumber joists will try to warp and pop your drywall nails, without proper bracing. I would install at 48′′ OC or sheet with plywood. ceiling joists at intervals not exceeding 8 feet (2438 mm). Yes, 8′ apart would be needed around here for that but we typically like bridging/blocking ...
Is stud blocking necessary?
In some situations, blocking is required as a fire-stop where a stud bay extends between floors . ... Without fire-stops, a fire could quickly spread from floor to floor. Blocking and extra studs also are used to catch the edge of the drywall at corners and in places where the stud spacing doesn't work out perfectly.
What is 2×4 blocking?
Blocking for wall framing are short pieces of 2 by 4 that you install between two joists of the basement ceiling . It's not a “building code” thing and it's not optional, you'll more than likely have to install some blocking to complete your wall framing. ... This wall is secured to the main joist.
Can wall studs be horizontal?
In addition to the vertical studs, many frame walls contain horizontal structural members , called bridging or fire-stops, running between studs. ... Once one stud or joist has been found, it is sometimes possible to find others simply by measuring laterally 16 inches from the center of the known stud or joist.
How big of a gap can you fill with drywall mud?
the drying-type you buy premixed in a bucket) will easily fill a 1/2′′ gap without cracking. Make sure you load up the gap well before applying your tape, then finish it as you would any other joint.
How much gap should be between sheets of drywall?
However, during installation, be diligent about keeping that 1/8-inch space between sheets by using a guide. The blade of a drywall square is about 1/8-inch thick and does the trick. Thin strips of wood can also be used as spacing guides.
Should I hang drywall vertical or horizontal?
Horizontal hanging reduces the lineal footage of seams by about 25%. Keeping the footage of seams to a minimum will result in less taping and a better looking finished job. Hanging horizontally also allows the drywall to flow over the framing so that bowed studs create less of a problem.
What materials can be used for fire blocking?
Fireblocks can be constructed of materials such as 2 inch nominal lumber , structural wood panels, gypsum board, cement fiber board for larger fireblock, and batts or blankets of mineral wool or glass fiber, loose fill insulation, and caulks, sealants, and putties for smaller fireblocks.
Do 10 foot walls need blocking?
2, state that fire blocking is required vertically at the ceiling and floor levels and horizontally at intervals not exceeding 10 feet . Additionally, IBC Section 718.2.
Can I use drywall for fire blocking?
What material can I use as a fire block? I recommend using drywall as a fire stopping material . You can also use 2x4s, plywood, rigidly packed insulation, fire foam and sometimes sheet metal. I used drywall for my basement.
Do 2×6 rafters need blocking?
Things You'll Need
Each block is 2×4 or 2×6 depending on the size of the rafters, and is secured to the top plate.
