3.1003.3a
An inspection will be conducted for mold, water leaks, and water damage before sealing a dropped ceiling or soffit
Repairs will be completed before work begins
Repair moisture-related issues
3.1003.3b
Entire opening will be spanned with
rigid material
Rigid material
Drywall, oriented strand board, duct board, cardboard, or any other stiff product that may support the load of insulation while serving as a durable air barrier
in line with the ceiling level
Material will be cut to fit and fastened as required
OR
Side of stud bays will be sealed with
rigid material
Rigid material
Drywall, oriented strand board, duct board, cardboard, or any other stiff product that may support the load of insulation while serving as a durable air barrier
from bottom of dropped ceiling to top-plate
OR
Wall below openings will be dense packed
OR
Wall below openings will be bridged and sealed with
SPF
SPF
Spray polyurethane foam
Seals will be used that prevent visible air movement using chemical smoke at 50 pascals of pressure difference
Prevent air leakage from dropped ceiling to attic
3.1003.3c
Support material
Support material
Typically, wooden strips that provide support over holes greater than 24" in size for less rigid air barrier materials
will be installed for spans wider than 24", except when
air barrier
Air barrier
The separation between the interior and exterior environments of a building that slows air flow to the point that no smoke movement is visible at 50 pascals of pressure difference across the boundary
material is rated to span greater distance under load (e.g., wind, insulation)
Ensure seal stays in place and does not sag
3.1003.3d
Continuous seal will be installed around seams, cracks, joints, edges, penetrations, and connections
Provide airtight, durable seal that does not move, bend, or sag
3.1003.3e
All remaining gaps at the top of the dropped ceiling will be sealed
Provide airtight framing from one finished side of the dropped ceiling to the other
