---
title: "Fire tape (Level 1) | Drywall Glossary"
url: https://tapeandfloat.com/glossary/fire-tape.html
language: en
author: James Grokman, CEO, TapeAndFloat
updated: 2026-10-28
---

# Fire tape (Level 1)

**Fire taping is tape embedded in mud on joints and inside corners with no finish coats, used in concealed spaces like attics and above ceilings where a rated or smoke-barrier assembly is needed but appearance doesn't matter. It is usually treated as a GA-214 Level 1 finish, though a rated assembly or the plans can call for more.**

## Why it matters on a drywall job

- Fire tape is usually less labor than a finished wall, so pricing it as finished work can overprice your bid.
- Inspectors may check rated areas, so the tape usually still needs to be done to the plans and code.

## Related guides and tools

- [Drywall finish levels guide](https://tapeandfloat.com/guides/drywall-finish-levels.html)
- [All glossary terms](https://tapeandfloat.com/glossary/)

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