Fire Rated 2 hour wall system
Richard: Yes, you always have the option of upgrading a UL Fire Resistive Design Assembly to a better Fire Resistive design. The key is to know what is an upgrade and what is NOT. In this case you have the right to upgrade the GWB from 1/2" to 5/8" CONDITIONAL upon the GWB being Fire Code "C" NOT the typical Type "X". As to the Noise control factor. The RSIC-1 is NEVER installed vertically. The RSIC-1 is installed so as to support a Drywall Furring Channel 7/8" x 25 gauge at 24 inch center to center positioned horizontally or parallel to the floor. The addition of the RSIC-1 to this Fire Resisitive Design Assembly can yield an STC 61 on 20 gauge load bearing Steel studs. Without the RSIC-1 your STC will be 36 to 40. The net difference with and without the RSIC-1 is 300% inprovement in the noise reduction. I hope I have answered all you questions. If you have any additional questions please feel free to send additional inqueries. Sincerely, Elzo Gernhart, V.P. PAC International, Inc.
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