What is the maximum allowable spacing between fire blocking in a concealed wall?

What is the maximum allowable spacing between fire blocking in a concealed wall?

• A. 4 feet
• B. 10 feet
• C. 6 feet
• D. 8 feet

Answer: (B)

Fire blocking in concealed walls is placed to interrupt the contiguous path through which flames and smoke can travel, slowing a fire’s spread between compartments. The spacing is specified so that no open cavity goes too far without a blocking member, helping to contain a fire and give occupants more time to escape. In typical wood-framed construction, the maximum distance between fire blocks is ten feet. That means you should install blocking at intervals of ten feet or less along the wall, and also at natural breaks in the cavity (top and bottom of the wall, around openings, etc.). Ten feet is the limit set by code, so it’s the correct choice for the maximum allowable spacing. Distances smaller than ten feet are acceptable but are not the maximum.

Fire blocking in concealed walls is placed to interrupt the contiguous path through which flames and smoke can travel, slowing a fire’s spread between compartments. The spacing is specified so that no open cavity goes too far without a blocking member, helping to contain a fire and give occupants more time to escape.

In typical wood-framed construction, the maximum distance between fire blocks is ten feet. That means you should install blocking at intervals of ten feet or less along the wall, and also at natural breaks in the cavity (top and bottom of the wall, around openings, etc.). Ten feet is the limit set by code, so it’s the correct choice for the maximum allowable spacing. Distances smaller than ten feet are acceptable but are not the maximum.