[itguy08]

We're in the process of redoing our basement bathroom courtesy of a flood and one of the things we're doing is the ceiling. They had some old fiber/cardboard tiles there that were starting to come down. So we ripped them down and also the strapping/lath that they had holding it up.

One other thing is there is real limited space in this bathroom. I'm 6'2" and my head almost hit the ceiling before. I'm afraid if we go with the plan which is firring strips across the floor joists above + 1/2" I may have to duck when going into the bathroom.

Since I'm going across the joists (have to in order to clear water/electrical), 16" OC is not an issue for me to do. Given this, could I get away with the 3/8 for the ceiling? It doesn't have to be strong since it's a ceiling, just has to not sag.

 

[Gary in WA]

You should check locally. 1/2" drywall is minimum for applying a water-based texture; http://publicecodes.citation.com/icod/irc/2009/icod_irc_2009_7_sec002_par010.htm

Gary

 

[itguy08]

You should check locally. 1/2" drywall is minimum for applying a water-based texture; http://publicecodes.citation.com/icod/irc/2009/icod_irc_2009_7_sec002_par010.htm

Gary

Thanks - we don't plan on doing any textured ceilings, just regular old paint.

 

[MikeKy55]

I would never give up the strength for 1/8" in height. You would have to measure it to know the difference. But thats my opinon.

 

[Bud Cline]

Isn't 5/8" the minimum thickness required for fire codes?

 

[stoner529]

Isn't 5/8" the minimum thickness required for fire codes?

Fire codes vary. for instance, in some counties in Florida such as orange and seminole, code requires 5/8" sheetrock, unless you use the more expensive 1/2" sag resistant board.

Do as you will, but i would at least go with 1/2" for the ceiling.

 

[acerunner]

Local codes for me only require fire rated ceiling if it is separating two units. So for single family home, the ceiling does not need fire rated drywall. In which case the only concern is rigidity. For 16"oc, anything less than 5/8 will sag, unless using special boards

 

[AfterDinner]

I would never give up the strength for 1/8" in height. You would have to measure it to know the difference. But thats my opinon.

I completely agree...

 

[itguy08]

Thanks for all the responses. We're going to go with the firring strips 12" OC and 1/2 sheetrock for the ceiling.