Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 2/13/2010

Question
I installed 5/8 firecode sheetrock above furnace,my next step is to seal the joints.Do they have a firerated joint tape and joint compound?Also do I have to use a special primer and paint.Thankyou for any advice you can offer.

Answer
Hi Henry, standard  three coat joint compound over paper or fiberglass tape will suffice.  A three coat finish on the joints  consists of a bedding  coat to adhere the tape, a cover coat and a finish coat.  If it is just a fire taping job you can do all three coats at once.  If you require a more finished look then you need to let each coat dry and then sand between finish coats..you may need more than three coats of drywall mud to get a smooth finish if needed.  As far as paint goes, latex is acceptable.  If for some reason this area is going to undergo heat over 100 degrees for extended periods of time you may want to paint the area with a finish coat of heat resistant paint commonly found at most paint stores.  I hope this information helps, please feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com