Florida Building Code Practice Exam

How deep should firestopping be for spaces between a fireplace and wood floor joists?

1. 1 inch

2. 1-1/2 inches

3. 2 inches

4. 3 inches

The correct answer is: 1 inch

The correct depth for firestopping between a fireplace and wood floor joists is 1 inch. This firestopping is critical for ensuring that heat and potential flames do not transfer from the fireplace to the combustible materials in the floor structure. The 1 inch depth is specifically designed to provide adequate protection while also aligning with building code requirements that dictate firestopping measures in such assemblies. It minimizes the risk of fire spreading, which is essential in maintaining the overall safety of the building. Deeper firestopping measures than 1 inch might not provide additional benefits while potentially complicating installation or increasing material costs unnecessarily. Therefore, adhering to the 1-inch specification balances safety, performance, and practicality within the Florida Building Code guidelines.