Which material is needed for the fire resistance of vertical chases in new buildings?

Gypsum board is commonly used for the fire resistance of vertical chases in new buildings due to its inherent properties. It is composed of a layer of gypsum sandwiched between two sheets of heavy paper, which provides a high level of fire resistance. The gypsum core can withstand significant heat, preventing flames from spreading and protecting the structural elements within the chase. This makes it an effective barrier against fire, which is crucial in maintaining the safety and integrity of buildings.

When chases are constructed, they need to contain or restrict the passage of smoke and flames. Installing gypsum board within these chases helps to achieve that goal, as it fulfills the fire-resistance rating required for various building codes. Fire-rated gypsum board is specifically designed for these applications and can withstand fire conditions longer than other materials.

In contrast, materials such as wood would not provide the necessary level of resistance, as it is combustible and can exacerbate fire spread. Concrete and steel offer structural benefits but are not typically used inside vertical chases for fire-resistive purposes in the same way gypsum board is. While concrete can provide good fire resistance in other applications, its use in vertical chases is more limited and may not offer the versatility of gypsum board for certain installation scenarios.