Are Plywood Ceilings Fire Rated Like Drywall?

Plywood ceilings generally do not achieve the same fire-resistance ratings as fire-rated drywall assemblies. Wood products like plywood are combustible and tend to ignite and contribute flame spread, whereas fire-rated gypsum boards are formulated with glass fibers and additives that resist fire. Aluminum ceiling systems rely on noncombustible metal panels or tiles combined with fire-resistant cores to deliver certified ratings. When a fire-rated ceiling is required, designers specify assemblies tested under UL 263 or ASTM E119 using gypsum board, fire-resistant aluminum tiles, or mineral fiber ceiling panels. Aluminum fire-rated panels often incorporate core materials that char or swell to block heat transfer. While decorative plywood ceilings can be treated with fire-retardant coatings to slow ignition, they rarely achieve full hour-rated performance. For code-mandated fire separations, use a tested aluminum or gypsum board ceiling system rather than plywood to ensure compliance and occupant safety.