Chapter 3: Building Construction

Question 1

1. What are the 5 major construction classifications?

Answer 1

• Type 1 – Fire resistant = reinforced concrete, precast concrete, and protected steel
• Type 2 – Non combustible = Steel components do not need to be protected vs type 1. Lighter weight material with lower fire resistance rating.
• Type 3 – Ordinary = Exterior walls and structural members are non-combustible/limited com
• Type 4- Heavy Timber = Large dimension lumber or laminated timber. Exterior walls are constructed of noncombustible.
• Type 5 – Wood frame

Question 2

2. What type of factory built homes might firefighters encounter?

Answer 2

Manufactured Homes (Mobile Homes)

Similar to Wood Frame Type 5

Question 3

What type of materials are usually used in the construction of floor and celling assemblies?

Answer 3

• Poured reinforced concrete
• Cellular concrete over metal decking
• Finished wood, tile, or carpet surface over a wood subfloor attached to metal or wood joists.

Ceilings:

• Gypsum board
• Tin tiles
• Lath and plaster attached to joists, roof trusses

Question 4

How are walls constructed?

Answer 4

Wood or Metal siding attached to:

• Studs
• A single layer of concrete
• Concrete Blocks
• Logs

Question 5

What challenges do basements and stairs present to firefighter?

Answer 5

Basements: Fire can damage floor joists and load bearing walls that support the upper floor and structure.

Stairs: can provide a flow path for the movement of air, fire, gases, and smoke through out a structure.

Question 6

How do protected, exterior, and unprotected stairs differ from each other?

Answer 6

Protected stairs: enclosed with fire protection. usually with a 1-2 hour

Exterior stairs: may be open to air or enclosed.

Unprotected stairs: not enclosed with fire protection. May serve as a flow path for fire and smoke

Question 7

What are the three main types of roofs?

Answer 7

1. Flat
2. Pitched
3. Arched

Question 8

What are the three main components that make a roof?

Answer 8

1. The roof supporting the structure
2. The roof deck or sheathing
3. The roof covering

Question 9

How might roof openings or modifications impact fire fighting operations?

Answer 9

1. Increased loads can accelerate structural failure.
2. Interferes with ventilations and fire location indicators.
3. Solar panels can hold electricity even when shut off.
4. Tripping and falling hazards
5. Be cautious of legal and illegal renovations.