Fire damper retaining angles are screwed into the wall framing

Fire damper retaining angles are part of a listed install detail. If they are fastened to the wrong thing, stop and verify the manufacturer/listing before cover or inspection.

Fire/Smoke Dampers & Rated Assemblies 4th Year RED

Watch out

Do not screw retaining angles into framing because it “feels stronger” unless the approved damper detail specifically calls for it.

Check

Confirm damper model, wall type, sleeve, retaining angle layout, and fastener locations.
Compare installed fasteners to the manufacturer/listing detail.
Check whether framing, drywall, or wall closure is pinning the sleeve/angles.
Verify blade movement and access after correcting fasteners.
Take photos for inspection/closeout before cover.

Steps

Confirm damper model, wall type, sleeve, retaining angle layout, and fastener locations.
Compare installed fasteners to the manufacturer/listing detail.
Check whether framing, drywall, or wall closure is pinning the sleeve/angles.
Verify blade movement and access after correcting fasteners.
Take photos for inspection/closeout before cover.

Say this to your foreman

The fire damper retaining angles at [location] are fastened into wall framing. I checked the damper tag and install sheet. Do you want those fasteners removed/reinstalled per the listed detail before cover?

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