Business

5 Types of Building Construction

Fire-Resistive (Type I)


Fire-resistive type buildings, recognizable by their stature of over seventy-five feet in height, are constructed with poured concrete and protected steel. They are designed to prevent the spread of fire throughout the structure, which means ventilation is not an option, as oxygen fuels fires. They can withstand the destructive effects of fire for up to four hours, allowing ample time for evacuation and fire department service arrival in the event of a fire. Their roofs are also made of non-combustible materials, making these buildings just about fireproof. Some Type I structures in Salt Lake City even have customized HVAC systems that can contribute to the mitigation of fire spread.

Non-Combustible (Type II)


Non-combustible type buildings are constructed with either tilt-slab or masonry walls. Their roofs must also be made of non-combustible materials such as metal or lightweight concrete. Depending on the distribution of materials, these structures can resist burns for up to two hours; however, their lack of ventilation puts them at risk of flashover. Flashover is when a building’s temperature rises quickly and suddenly, which can lead to complete collapse. Most Salt Lake City schools are constructed as Type II structures.

Ordinary (Type III)


Ordinary types are similar to non-combustible types in that their walls are made of tilt-slabs or masonry. What sets these buildings apart is their wood roofs. Fire precautions vary depending on the type of roof system construction (parallel cord truss or panelized roofs) and connected void spaces such as attics. Without fire stops, Type III houses are at risk of rapid fire spread, but fire-cut joists help prevent walls from collapsing even after floors have collapsed.

Heavy Timber (Type IV)


Heavy timber buildings, as their name suggests, are constructed of large dimensional lumber. Their walls are sometimes (but not always) non-combustible and often include drains that can decrease collapse potential. At high temperatures, however, their metal joint connections may fail.

Wood-Frame (Type V)


Wood-frame or Type V buildings have walls and roofs constructed entirely from natural or engineered wood that burns fairly quickly. Larger beams used for structural elements can help prevent collapse and vertical fire spreading. Still, these structures are overall the most susceptible to damage by fire.

Roper Buildings is a construction company in Salt Lake City that designs and constructs pole structures and barns according to the needs and specifications of its customers. Known for its superior service, helpful communication, and swift installation, Roper Buildings in Salt Lake City does not disappoint.

Roper Buildings in Salt Lake City is a construction company that designs and constructs pole structures and barns according to the needs and specifications of its customers.