Ok I did a search with no luck just wondering what does sheetrock weigh? I think 1/2″ 4’x8′ was about 55 pounds, I’m guessing 5/8″ 4×8 is about 70lbs. My question is I am remodeling my basement the ceiling was 3/8″ too wimpy could see all the deflections. I know code for Washington State is 5/8″ for lids I’m not sure it is for basements but assume so. Is it too heavy? The joists are 2×10 at max 14′ length on 16″ centers. It would only add about 2lbs per square foot over 1/2″ rock. Cost isn’t that much $1.50 more for 5/8″ per sheet so $30 for the whole project. I’m thinking for firecode maybe I better do 5/8″ and the weight is not a concern? What a worrywart, ok thanks for your time guys.
Discussion Forum
Discussion Forum
Up Next
Video Shorts
Featured Story
Freestanding with boxed stairs, this small deck is full of ideas for a long-lasting entry that will look great for years to come.
Featured Video
Highlights
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Fine Homebuilding Magazine
Fine Home Building
Follow
-
Fine Homebuilding
Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.
Start Free Trial Now -
GBA Prime
Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.
Start Free Trial Now
- Home Group
- Antique Trader
- Arts & Crafts Homes
- Bank Note Reporter
- Cabin Life
- Cuisine at Home
- Fine Gardening
- Fine Woodworking
- Green Building Advisor
- Garden Gate
- Horticulture
- Keep Craft Alive
- Log Home Living
- Military Trader/Vehicles
- Numismatic News
- Numismaster
- Old Cars Weekly
- Old House Journal
- Period Homes
- Popular Woodworking
- Script
- ShopNotes
- Sports Collectors Digest
- Threads
- Timber Home Living
- Traditional Building
- Woodsmith
- World Coin News
- Writer's Digest
Replies
The sheet rocker I use in the SF bay area allways uses5/8, it won't sag over time and gives a little more fire proofing.
You can get type X in 1/2". Structurally you don'y have a weight issue. If you just want the fire rating, use the half inch type X. A little less weight to lift never hurt anyone :)
Dave
Don't worry about the weight from a structural standpoint; worry about it from the aspect of putting it over your head. Use the 5/8 type X, but use a PanelLift. It's the bomb for guys like me over 50. Just set it on the arms and crank it up to the ceiling. You can micro adjust it, and take all day to screw it in without wearing a bald spot on your head or having your arms turn to noodles. Plus, I would use SR adhesive, and the Panel Lift allows you to squish it up tight while screwing it.
Hi Jeff. 5/8" type x is not required for residential ceilings in Washington State. Only as a firewall between house and garage.
Regular 1/2" is OK for this at 16" oc. If 24" layout, you would need 5'8" to avoid the sags.
Excellence is its own reward!
$30 for the whole project
I don't know where you're getting it, but I need about 30 sheets delivered with a boom truck. I'll spring for gas.
Thanks for the info guys I meant $30 for the cost of 5/8 over 1/2. 1/2 being about 3.90 and 5/8 about 5.5 for 4x8.
My understanding is 5/8-in X is only required between the garage and house, but I'm with you - I just spec'd out 5/8-in Type X everywhere since the material cost difference is almost nil. There is some added labor for the heavier sheets, but not much. I just put a lid on my garage with 5/8-inch Type X. My rocker complained a little, but not much.
It's handy that you are in Washington state because we have "CD" board readily available. In 1/2" it is more rigid than even 5/8". Perfect for ceilings, and yes the other post was right, there is no WA state code for 5/8" on ceiling except for fire seperation. However, if you believe that is code, you should check with your local code enforcing agency.