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Fire and Sound Separation

We install fire-rated & soundproof assemblies that improve privacy & safety.

Fire and Sound Separation Solutions for Safe, Code-Compliant Multi-Unit Homes

Installing fire- and sound-rated assemblies between residential units is not just a best practice – in many cases, it’s the law. Whether you’re finishing a legal basement apartment, adding a duplex conversion or upgrading an existing multi-unit home, proper separation is essential for both safety and privacy.

At Express Drywall Services, we use tested assemblies that combine fire-rated drywall, insulation and acoustic treatment to meet the Ontario Building Code. These systems help contain fire and smoke while blocking unwanted sound transfer between living spaces. Our team carefully plans stud spacing, layer thickness and sealant application to achieve certified performance.

We also work around plumbing, electrical and HVAC components to ensure the barrier is continuous and effective. Soundproofing between units helps reduce tension between occupants and improves overall home value. The process is often completed alongside framing and drywall installation for better efficiency.

Whether it’s for peace of mind or permit approval, our systems deliver on both function and compliance. We’ve built code-compliant separation walls in homes across the GTA and we can help with yours too.

When Code and Comfort Can’t Be Ignored

When Fire and Sound Separation Is a Must

Express Drywall Services provides fire and sound separation between main living areas and stairwells in residential homes.

Basement Apartments With Shared Walls

Townhomes benefit from Express Drywall Services fire and sound separation between attached units for better privacy and protection.

New Units in Duplex or Garden Suites

Fire and sound separation solutions by Express Drywall Services enhance safety in residential hallways and exit paths.

Installing Fire-Code Compliant Assemblies

Long residential hallways feature Express Drywall Services fire and sound separation to reduce echo and improve safety.

Preventing Sound Transfer Between Floors

This service is crucial when you’re building or renovating spaces where different living areas share walls or ceilings. It’s commonly needed in duplexes, basement apartments, garden suites and other multi-unit residential structures. Building code often requires fire-rated assemblies between units to slow the spread of flames and smoke.

At the same time, soundproofing helps protect comfort and privacy for everyone in the home. If you’re already planning drywall installation, framing or insulation, it’s the perfect time to integrate these assemblies. Our team ensures both fire resistance and acoustic control without compromising your space or schedule.

Why Fire Separation Matters More Than Ever

Meeting Code Without Compromising Comfort

Floor system designed for fire and sound separation by Express Drywall Services

Today’s homes are more complex than ever, with secondary suites, basement apartments and multi-family conversions becoming increasingly common. With this rise in density comes the need for clear fire and sound separation between units – and meeting that need is both a legal and practical concern.

At Express Drywall Services, we design and install wall and ceiling systems that meet fire-resistance ratings and acoustic standards set by the Ontario Building Code. These assemblies typically include fire-rated drywall, mineral wool insulation, resilient channels and fire caulking at key junctions. But performance isn’t just about material – it’s about how everything fits and seals together.

Our team understands how to build these systems efficiently, without cutting corners or over-complicating your schedule. We often coordinate this work with drywall finishing, framing adjustments or basement renovations, ensuring your space is protected and future-proof.

Whether you’re prepping for an inspection or just want to protect your family and tenants, fire-rated separation offers critical protection. It can also improve resale value and ease of permitting for future legal conversions. Done right, it’s invisible – but it makes all the difference when it matters most. Trust our team to install it cleanly, correctly and with minimal disruption.

Our Fire and Sound Separation Process

What’s Included in This Protective Build

Code Review & Assembly Planning

We start by reviewing applicable building codes to determine the required fire-resistance rating and acoustic standards. Our team selects wall and ceiling assemblies that meet both safety and comfort criteria. This includes choosing the right drywall type, insulation and sealing systems. We tailor the plan based on unit layout, construction stage and existing structure.

Framing Adjustments & Blocking

We modify or reinforce framing where needed to support multi-layer drywall, resilient channels or fire caulking. Blocking may be added for extra stability and to isolate sound pathways. Stud spacing and type are verified to comply with the chosen fire-rated system. This step ensures a secure structure ready for separation materials.

Installation of Fire-Rated Drywall

We install one or more layers of fire-rated drywall, depending on the assembly type. All seams and edges are staggered to prevent weak points. Proper fastener spacing is followed to maintain the wall’s integrity. Our crew installs cleanly and efficiently to keep the project on track.

Insulation & Sound Control Materials

We add insulation between studs and joists to absorb sound and increase thermal and acoustic resistance. Materials like mineral wool are commonly used for their fire- and sound-resistant properties. This step is essential in reducing transfer between adjoining units. Proper depth and coverage are confirmed before sealing.

Sealing With Caulking & Acoustic Barriers

Fire-rated sealants are applied to all wall penetrations, edges and joints. We also install acoustic putty pads or resilient clips as needed for enhanced sound control. This ensures there are no gaps in the barrier system. Every layer is inspected before the wall is closed.

Final Inspection & Compliance Check

We perform a final walkthrough to confirm all assemblies are properly installed and meet building code. If required, we coordinate with local inspectors for compliance approval. Our team documents fire ratings and soundproofing specs for your records. The result is a safer, quieter and fully separated space.

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Completed Projects Across the GTA

Why Are We the Best

Why Homeowners Trust Our Separation Work

Fire- and Code-Compliant Assemblies

We follow code standards and install fire-rated systems that meet required separation between residential and multi-unit living spaces.

Clean, Disruption-Free Execution

Our team works cleanly and efficiently, protecting your space while completing fire and sound assemblies with minimal interruption.

Precise Multi-Layer Installations

We follow code standards and install fire-rated systems that ensure proper separation between residential and multi-unit living spaces.

1-Year Warranty on All Installations

All assemblies include a 1-year workmanship warranty, giving you confidence in the long-term safety, durability and overall quality of our work.

Express Drywall Services has 20+ years of experience building sound- and fire-rated wall and ceiling systems in homes across the GTA. Our crews follow code and manufacturer specs to ensure safe, quiet living spaces in multi-unit homes, duplexes and basement suites. We coordinate with framing, electrical and drywall teams to deliver full separation with minimal delays.

Whether you need to meet legal dwelling requirements or simply improve acoustic privacy, we can help. Our goal is always to build walls that protect, isolate and last. From estimate to final inspection, you can expect professional results and a clean site.

Working With Us Is Simple

Simple Steps for Professional Results

Step 1

Request Your Free Estimate

Step 2

Choose a Convenient Start Date

Step 3

We Complete the Job Efficiently

Step 4

Review the Work & Get Warranty

Code-Compliant Separation Across the GTA

Fire & Sound Barrier Installation Available in Your Area

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Toronto

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Richmond Hill

Smart Separation for Modern Homes

Soundproofing, Privacy and Peace of Mind

In many multi-unit homes, noise and privacy complaints are just as common as safety concerns. That’s why we focus on both fire and sound control when building interior separations.

At Express Drywall Services, we use materials like acoustic insulation, fire-rated drywall and resilient clips to reduce noise transfer and meet fire code simultaneously. These solutions are ideal for basement units, duplexes and garden suites – anywhere people live in close quarters.

Our process starts with a proper layout; we evaluate which walls and ceilings require enhanced separation, then design a system to match. Many clients pair this service with moisture-resistant drywall, ceiling soundproofing or insulation upgrades for better overall performance.

We also apply fire caulking and putty pads to seal outlets, junction boxes and plumbing penetrations – details that matter during inspection. The result is a wall system that blocks both sound and flame spread while preserving comfort.

With over 20 years of experience, we’ve helped homeowners across the GTA create quieter, safer living environments. Whether for family, tenants or resale – fire and sound separation is a smart, future-ready investment.

Tall fire and sound separation wall by Express Drywall Services

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