Frame
Interior partition systems with metal stud framing.
Every commercial project starts with the same foundation
Protect
Fire-rated assemblies built to code for the specific occupancy type.
Coordinate
Work with general contractors and building inspectors through sign-off.
What commercial spaces require
Why Fire-Rated Drywall Matters
Most commercial buildings require what's called Type X drywall in certain locations, stairwells, shared walls between tenant spaces, and rooms housing electrical or mechanical equipment. Type X is a thicker board, usually 5/8 inch instead of the standard 1/2 inch used in most homes, with glass fibers mixed into the core. Those fibers help the board hold together longer under direct fire exposure, buying critical extra minutes before a wall assembly fails. It's not optional in the spaces that require it, it's part of what a building inspector is checking for during a walkthrough, and getting it wrong means redoing the work.
Which specific walls need Type X, and how many layers, depends on the building's occupancy classification and the specific fire-rating requirement for that assembly, this is one of the first things we confirm with the general contractor or building department before framing starts, not something to guess at after the fact.
Metal Stud Framing
Almost all commercial interior walls are framed with metal studs rather than the wood studs common in residential construction. Metal framing doesn't warp or shrink the way lumber can over time, which matters in a commercial space where a straight, stable wall is expected to stay that way for the life of the lease, not just look good on move-in day.
Commercial drywall FAQs
How is commercial drywall different from residential drywall?
Commercial projects generally involve larger spaces, stricter fire and sound code requirements, and metal stud framing instead of wood. Scheduling is also different, since commercial work often needs to happen around business hours or in phases to avoid disrupting operations.
Can you work during evenings or weekends to avoid disrupting my business?
In many cases, yes. We understand that shutting down during regular business hours isn't always realistic, and we can discuss scheduling options that minimize downtime for your operation.
Do you coordinate directly with general contractors on commercial buildouts?
Yes. We regularly work as a subcontractor alongside general contractors on tenant improvement and buildout projects, coordinating our timeline with electrical, mechanical, and plumbing trades.
What kind of drywall is used above a suspended ceiling grid?
This depends on the specific fire and sound separation requirements for the space, which can vary based on occupancy type and whether the area above the grid is a plenum used for HVAC return air. We review the specific code requirements for your building before recommending materials.