Should we use fire-rated drywall between the basement and upstairs?

Yes, you should absolutely use fire-rated drywall between your basement and the main floor - it's required by the Ontario Building Code and provides crucial protection for your family and property.

The Ontario Building Code requires a minimum 45-minute fire-rated assembly between a basement and the floor above. This typically means using 5/8" Type X fire-rated drywall on the basement ceiling, properly installed with fire-rated screws and joints. The fire rating isn't just about the drywall itself - it's about the entire ceiling assembly, including proper installation techniques and maintaining the integrity of the fire barrier.

Fire-rated drywall contains special additives (usually glass fibers and other materials) that help it maintain structural integrity longer when exposed to fire. During a basement fire, this extra time can be the difference between a contained incident and a house fire. The 45-minute rating means the assembly should prevent fire spread for at least 45 minutes under standard test conditions, giving occupants time to evacuate and firefighters time to respond.

In Ottawa's older homes, many basements were finished before current fire safety requirements, so this is particularly important during renovations. Any penetrations through the fire-rated ceiling - for plumbing, electrical, or HVAC - must be properly sealed with fire-rated materials to maintain the barrier's effectiveness. Simply stuffing insulation around pipes won't meet code requirements.

For secondary suites or basement apartments, the requirements are even more stringent, often requiring fire separation between units as well as between floors. The City of Ottawa takes fire safety seriously in rental properties, and proper fire-rated assemblies are always checked during inspections.

Professional installation is crucial because improper installation can void the fire rating entirely. The drywall must be installed according to specific patterns, with the right screws at the right spacing, and all joints must be properly finished. Insurance companies also increasingly scrutinize fire safety measures, especially in homes with basement apartments.

For your basement renovation project, factor in the slightly higher cost of Type X drywall (typically $15-25 more per sheet than standard drywall) and ensure your contractor understands fire-rated assembly requirements. This isn't an area to cut corners - proper fire separation protects your investment and, more importantly, your family's safety.