Specialty Drywall Systems
Shaft Wall Systems
A shaft wall system is a fire rated assembly used to enclose elevator shafts, stairwells, and mechanical chases. It is designed to be installed entirely from one side, using liner panels set into specialised studs, because there is no access from within the shaft.
About Shaft Wall Systems
Shaft walls solve a specific construction problem: you need a rated enclosure around a vertical opening, and there is no way to work from inside it. The system uses one inch liner panels slid into slotted studs, so the entire assembly can be built from the corridor side.
They appear around elevator shafts, stair enclosures, and mechanical and plumbing chases in multi storey buildings. Because they are rated assemblies enclosing vertical openings, which are exactly the paths fire travels between floors, the detailing gets inspected closely and is worth building precisely.
Why this matters
- Installed entirely from one side where no shaft access exists
- Built to the listed rated assembly detail
- Correct liner panel and stud system for the rating
- Documented for inspection and closeout
Related guides
How we work
Our Process
How a shaft wall systems project runs from first contact through final walkthrough.
Step 1: Scope Walkthrough
We walk the project, measure, review existing conditions, and confirm finish levels and textures room by room.
Step 2: Written Estimate
A written scope with explicit inclusions and exclusions, finish level by area, materials, and a realistic schedule.
Step 3: Protection and Mobilization
Floors, fixtures, and access routes protected, containment installed, and materials staged before work starts.
Step 4: Execute in Sequence
Framing, board, finishing, and texture completed in sequence with quality checked at each stage rather than only at the end.
Step 5: Punch and Walkthrough
Raking light inspection, punch list completion, full cleanup, and a walkthrough before the work is signed off.
Scope
What's Included
Written into every estimate so there is no ambiguity about what you are paying for.
- Assembly listing confirmation
- J stud and track layout
- Shaft liner panel installation
- Rated board layering on the accessible face
- Firestopping at penetrations and floor lines
- As built documentation
Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are shaft walls built differently from other rated walls?
Specialty Drywall Systems
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The correct tile backer for showers, tub surrounds, and wet areas.
Resilient Channel Installation
Decoupling board from framing, the highest impact soundproofing measure.
Need shaft wall systems in Orange County?
Tell us what the wall or ceiling is doing and we will tell you what it needs. Free written estimates with no obligation.
Written estimates · Texture matching stated up front · Final walkthrough on every job