basement partition wall - framing question

RCharles

I'm adding a partition wall in the basement. It will be directly under a laminated beam, which is supported by lolly columns; the wall will enclose the columns. So the wall is not structural, just a divider.

Question: to meet code, do I need a top plate under the beam or can I nail the 2x4s directly to the underside of the laminated beam?

(I'[ve already done a small part of the wall and hope I don't have to start over.)

Thanks

Ray

joeyr

Nope.. The only reason you need a double top plate is for carrying load from above and fire break..

If you are building a non load bearing wall you don't need any plate under the beam because the beam carries its own load and it is a fire break..

But, If it was my house, I'd put a plate under the beam.. lol but that is just how I frame

good luck

Marbledust

you need a plate for drywall nailing....as if?

joeyr

Pretty sure the beam would be sufficiant to hold the drywall as it is the top plate