Materials application

[rcktdg]

I am getting pretty far into my studio project and I should emphasize that I am a guitar/computer guy not a contractor before I ask my questions.

I take it that when installing RC1 you mount the RC1 horizontally as well as the drywall. Is this correct?

What is the deal with accoustical drywall caulk? Where do you get it. Is there an adequate substitute? From what I understand it's very flexable. Is it different than silicone caulking?

I'm thinking of improvising with one of my walls. I have an entry that's 9x12. I was thinking of mounting the RC1 to every other stud on one side and then the alternate studs on the opposite side. They are on 16 in centers. It's kind of a poor mans floating wall. I could make a cut out for the places where the RC1 would contact the stud supporting the opposite wall. Any thoughts about this?

Thanks in advance,
RD

 

[Alex W]

RD,

Silicone caulk is fine--that's as flexible as you can get. The best stuff is the pure silicone based kind, but it's more expensive than others that use a blend of silicone with other stuff. They all say they're guaranteed to be flexible for 15-20 yrs, so go with your gut.

The RC channel should go horizontal to your framing members. The drywall sheets can run either way. Check out the US Gypsum site which has an online construction handbook with lots of good information:

http://www.usg.com/

If you end up adding a second layer (known as a face layer), you'll want to run these sheets in the opposite direction to your base layer and insure none of the joints overlap.

As for your entry wall, I have no idea what it is you're trying to describe. Note that you should not install channel on both sides of your wall. You'll get better isolation installing channel on one side (preferably the side with the highest SPL source) and rigid fastening the boards to the other side.

Alex

 

[rcktdg]

Alex W,

Thanks for your help.

Something I didn't really get too clear from the USG site is about finishing the drywall. I would like to mud, tap and paint the drywall when I am finished but it kind of sounded like they did not recommend mud just caulk. I would like to do both if possible.

Would adding a big fat bead of caulk to my rc1 before mounting the drywall be a bad idea? I have been considering slathering caulking over just about everything .

cheers, RD

 

[Alex W]

RD,

Don't think you need to caulk your RC channel.

For my room, I taped and mudded all the joints between boards, including corners and ceiling; both on the base layer and face layer. Also mudded over the screws. IMHO this is sufficient to provide a good air seal and simpler to apply and finish than silicone caulk.

I used caulk around all door, window, and outlet box penetrations, as well as at the interface between the drywall and floor.

Alex