Quote:
Originally Posted by retiredguy123
In most cases, it does comply with the code. You are just required to slow down the transmission of fire and smoke from the garage to the attic. So, as long as the drywall is the same thickness as the garage ceiling drywall, it should meet the code. But, some people will prop open the drywall with a 2x4, which defeats the purpose of creating a fire and smoke barrier.
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Right! Many don't understand how fast a fire in the garage will spread to the attic and then to the rest of the house jeopardizing their ability to get out and survive. The smoke alone will overwhelm you very quickly. And forget about if this happens when you are sleeping.
As far as Majic stairs is concerned, I know the lift and I think the stairs has metal and not plywood so that will be OK. You can also get fire retardent paint
Amazon.com
This stuff is used all the time to comply with code. But in addition to this, you need to have a good gasket around your stairs and or lift because of the smoke. I used that BBQ grill gasket which is flame proof as a seal between my Majic StairsLift and the opening. Inexpensive, you can get it on Amazon and it works well.
Anyway, the message is
1) If you prop open your attic stairs for garage ventillation, you are an idiot. (sorry)
2) If you purchase and install a typical attic stair system from Lowes or Home Depot or anywhere else and it's not fire rated, you may as well prop open you stairs for ventillation becasue that 1/4 inch plywood cover is like not having any barrier during a fire in the garage.
3) If you order and install a fire rated attic stairway, make sure the installer uses fire rated caulk around the stairway frame or you will be defeating the purpose of the fire rating.