[aussieman3000]

I am working on the finishes for a new home build that will be breaking ground in at least a month and I have an extensive history of remodeling kitchens/baths etc. That being said, I have always liked the idea of using something like a shadow bead for the drywall and that has led me down the road of specific requirements for code. With the rule of thumb being 1/2" thickness for 16" o/c and 5/8" for 24" o/c, I am not sure of the structural requirements for using drywall thicknesses. Where I would like to end up is possibly using 24x94 vertical panels raised off the wall, showing smaller shadow gaps around each panel. Would that mean that I would have to fully drywall underneath or just the corners? Is there a structural requirement for drywall, or can a 1/4 plywood work? Any ideas would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Bud9051]

I don't really understand what you are doing, but the typical drywall layer is also the envelope air barrier and needs to be continuous and sealed. You may also have electrical boxes to deal with and they will also need to be air sealed, special boxes.

Not sure if that helps.

best
Bud

 

[ClarenceBauer]

Check out the Fry Reglet catalog.
Look for "Shape - Finder Index - Drywall "

 

[joecaption]

I'm with Bud on this one, no clue what shadow bead even is and Google was no help.
There is no location in your profile so anyone's going to have to guess what code is in your area.
The last 1/2 of the post just makes no since to me.

 

[huesmann]

This is what Google told me a shadow bead was:

I guess it gives you the look of having a base board, without having one?

 

[ClarenceBauer]

This is what Google told me a shadow bead was:

I guess it gives you the look of having a base board, without having one?

Yes that is what it is.
There are many different designs & shapes you can get it in.

 

[ron45]

Shadow bead if done right can look very good.

It could mimic panels, steps, blocks, multi layered, and other designs.

I'm forgetful today.

If you're having trouble with screwing the drywall to the studs because of the design of your shadow bead just use plywood behind it.

 

[3onthetree]

I believe the word you are looking for is "reveal." You do not have to have a backer behind this (unless it is a fire-rated wall), although you may need to add some more framing depending on where the reveal occurs. Fry Reglet is the standard but TrimTex is commonly available. Lots of detailing at corners, doors/windows, base.

IRC specifies spanning the framing and fastening. Unless you have a metal stud wall being a diaphragm, I doubt there is anything structural you have to worry about for the drywall in a typical house. You can actually use 1/2" lightweight ("Ultralight", "Span24") across 24"o.c., if you want, unless your AHJ is specific about 5/8".