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The 5 Types of Building Construction
There are many different ways to classify construction projects and buildings. Construction projects and buildings can be classified according to the owners, materials used, or types of structures. But there’s another way to divide things up, and it is based on the required level of fire resistance in a building.
This list is called the 5 Types of Building Construction, with the first following the most stringent fire resistance requirements and the fifth following the least.
Type 1: Fire-resistive
1. Type I – Fire-Resistive
- Materials: Non-combustible materials like reinforced concrete and steel.
- Structural frame: 2-3 hours.
- Floors: 2 hours.
- Roof: 1-2 hours.
- Uses: High-rise buildings, large-scale commercial spaces, and hospitals.
- Highest level of fire resistance.
- Often includes fireproofing on steel components.
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Type II – Non-Combustible
2. Type II – Non-Combustible
- Materials: Similar to Type I, but with reduced fire-resistance requirements.
- Structural elements typically 1 hour or less.
- Roofs and walls often have lower fire ratings.
- Uses: Warehouses, newer commercial buildings, and smaller office spaces.
- Non-combustible construction with limited fireproofing.
- Lower cost compared to Type I.
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Type III – Ordinary Construction
3. Type III – Ordinary Construction
- Materials: Non-combustible exterior walls with combustible interior components (e.g., wood framing).
- Exterior walls: 2 hours.
- Interior: Depends on materials used.
- Uses: Mid-rise buildings, schools, and residential apartments.
- Combines fire-resistant exteriors with flexible interiors.
- Common in older buildings and urban areas.
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Type IV – Heavy Timber
4. Type IV – Heavy Timber (Mill Construction)
- Materials: Non-combustible exterior walls and large, heavy wood members for the interior.
- Fire Resistance: Heavy timber resists fire due to its mass and slower burn rate.
- Exterior walls: 2 hours.
- Uses: Churches, barns, and industrial buildings.
- Wood members must meet specific size requirements (e.g., 8-inch columns).
- Exposed wood can create a distinctive aesthetic.
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Type V – Wood-Framed Construction
5. Type V – Wood-Framed Construction
- Materials: Combustible materials, primarily wood.
- Fire Resistance: Minimal or no fire-resistance ratings.
- Uses: Single-family homes, townhouses, and some small apartment buildings.
- Most flexible and cost-effective construction type.
- Can be fully wood-framed, including walls, floors, and roofs.
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What Is the Difference Between Type A and Type B Construction?
All construction types except for Type 4 fall into one of two subcategories: Type A or Type B. Type A buildings are “protected” constructions and Type B structures are “unprotected” constructions. Protected constructions are more fire-resistant than unprotected constructions. Type 4 buildings are excluded because of their old age and more uniform design.
All construction types except for Type 4 fall into one of two subcategories: Type A or Type B. Type A buildings are “protected” constructions and Type B structures are “unprotected” constructions. Protected constructions are more fire-resistant than unprotected constructions. Type 4 buildings are excluded because of their old age and more uniform design.
Mary Shafran | EXPERIENCE DESIGN
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