Originally Posted by
Jerry Peck
Nooooo ... don't use the word "firewall" as it is not a "firewall" ...
It is a "separation wall" and, as shown in the photo, it does not provide the required "separation" between the garage and the living space.
As I see it, there are two choices: 1) close that gap up with at least 1/2" gypsum board; 2) go to all the expense and trouble to cover the underside of the floor above the crawlspace with 5/8" Type X gypsum board.
I suspect 1) above would be *much cheaper*.
Ummm...you did notice I used quotation marks around the word? There was a reason for that; in this case to indicate the use of slang.
You might want to check out
The “Blog” of “Unnecessary” Quotation Marks .
But...I do use the term "firewall" without the quotation marks in my reports when there are breaches. Along with an explanation of what it's for, it gets the point across. I've never yet had a client, seller or builder come back and ask me if I meant "separation wall". Of course, I also occasionally use the word "sub-panel", where appropriate. Shoot me!