[Greenbuilding] Ceiling Air Barrier

[Frank Tettemer]

I agree with Corwyn,
about applying drywall,
and then the T&G.

The most important reason, to me, is fire barrier.  I believe the 
Ontario Building Code specifies that a fire barrier Must be put up, over 
the vapour barrier.  So, after putting up the vapour barrier, the safest 
procedure would be to apply 1x4 spruce strapping on 12" centres, 
perpendicular to the ceiling beams/roof trusses. 8" blocking, of 1x4, 
can then be put up between the strapping, and directly over the 
trusses/ceiling beams.  This becomes the eventual nailer for the final 
T&G pine or V-Groove pine.
Next in procedure would be to apply drywall to the strapping, marking 
the locations of the trusses/ceiling beams with their blocking. Then the 
T&G can be nailed through the drywall, into this blocking. As well, I 
would tape and plaster all seams in the drywall, before beginning the 
T&G.  .
Sounds laborious, but I now know, first hand, of two different attic 
fires which destroyed the homes, but in both cases, the fire marshall, 
or forensic engineer, stated that the fire could have been contained if 
the drywall had been put up, instead of just pine ceiling. Thus the 
requirement for drywall on all ceilings, to meet code requirements.

Frank

Frank Tettemer
Living Sol ~ Building and Design
www.livingsol.com
613 756 3884




On 12/12/2011 3:39 PM, Sacie Lambertson wrote:

> We have tongue and groove ceilings,

EVERY example I have tested of tongue and groove (especially v-match) 
ceilings or walls has leaked significant amounts of air.  Were I to make 
a recommendation for someone wanting that, it would be to build the 
surface with drywall, and put the wood over it once it has been found to 
be air tight.

Thank You Kindly,

Corwyn

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