Single Family Dwellings Flashcards
What is a single family dwelling?
a detached structure housing 1 or more families in a single place of residence.
pg.2
“In Northern Virginia, a single-family dwelling simply means a detached structure constructed to house one or more families in a single place of residence. These types of dwellings may vary in height from one to three stories.”
Colonial style home characteristics:
- usually 2 stories above ground
- may have a basement
- front door leads into main entry way and stairwell
- rooms typically branch off entryway
- living/dining areas on 1st floor
- bedrooms + bathrooms on 2nd floor
Ranch/Rambler Characteristics:
- usually 1 story
- may have basement
- open floor plans, large windows
- large extended eaves
pg.3
“Ranch or rambler style homes are usually one story and may or may not have a basement. The floor plan is typically very open and the presence of large windows should be expected. Additionally, these homes will often have large extended eaves.”
Cape Cod Characteristics
- typically 1 and a half stories above ground
- front door provides access to main stairwell
- main stairwell leads to upper bedrooms/basement, if present
- top floor contains knee walls/dormers
pg.3
“This style home is typically one-and-a-half stories above ground. The front door provides access to the main stairwell leading to the upper bedrooms and basement, if present. The top floor will contain knee walls and dormers.”
Split Foyer Characteristics:
- usually 2 stories
- stairs at foyer level, allows acces to both levels
- basement may have living quarters
pg.4
“A split foyer style home is usually two stories with stairs at the foyer level, which will allow access to both levels of the home. The presence of living quarters could be expected on the basement level.”
Split Level Characteristics:
- 2 to 3 levels
- front entry between an upper and lower floor
- short stair set upon entry leading to upstairs/downstairs
- bedrooms typically on 2nd floor
pg.4
“A split level style home is two to three levels. The front entry is on one level between an upper and lower floor; a short set of stairs will be encountered upon entry that will lead upstairs and downstairs. Bedrooms are typically located on the second floor level.”
Ballon Frame Characteristics:
- long continuous studsthat run from basemnt to attic
- no fire stops, rapid fire spread
- similar to colonial w/exception of wall construction
pg.5
“This style home is similar to the layout of a colonial house with exception of the wall construction. Balloon frame construction walls are built with long, continuous studs that run from the basement to the attic. The presence of the fire stops between floors is non-existent, leading to rapid fire spread.”
Hybrid Characteristics:
- A variation of several styles
- typically wood frame -
- 2 seperate occupanices seprated by firewall in 1 story portion of structure
- space can be storage shed, garage or breezeway
pg.5
“Hybrid style houses are a new genre that is becoming more popular. They can be a variation of several different styles. Hybrid homes are typically wood frame and are two separate occupancies separated by a fire wall in a one story portion of the structure. This space can be a storage shed, garage or breezeway. Consideration shall be given to potential for extension to exposure occupancy.”
Cluster Homes Characteristics:
- single family detatched homes
- usually lightweight materials
- 10 ft apart or less
- frame method, vinyl or wood sidings
- zero clearance chimneys
- spacious, open floor plans
- no firewalls
- Higher collaps potential
- 1 to 3 stories
pg.7
“Cluster homes are a community of single-family detached homes, usually constructed of lightweight building materials that are in a very close proximity to each other, usually ten feet or less, Figure 9. They are generally built using the frame method and typically have vinyl or wood siding, zero clearance chimneys, and narrow travel lanes separating each structure. These homes are spacious and have well-designed, open floor plans which can provide rapid fire spread throughout the structure. A high potential for lateral fire spread exists in cluster home developments because firewalls are nonexistent. There is a higher potential for collapse compared to other residential structures. There are many types of cluster homes styles throughout Northern Virginia. These homes can be one to three stories in height with windows facing the exposures, leading to rapid horizontal fire spread. These homes present many challenges to the first alarm units depending on the involvement of the structure. Exposures are a major problem concern due to their close proximity”
McMansion/Estate Homes Characteristics:
- sq footage between 3,000 to 6,000 plus sq ft
- typically wood frame w/large ope space in attic
- HVAC deadloads
- bedrooms on upper floors
- large vaulted ceilings
- 1st floor living and dining areas
pg.6
“McMansion is a slang architectural term that describes the recent large-sized homes that have been populating the Northern Virginia region within the past 20 years. These homes can be encountered in subdivisions solely devoted to large homes or in subdivisions with existing homes much smaller than the McMansion. The square footage of these homes typically ranges from 3,000 to well over 6,000 square feet. These structures are typically wood frame with a large amount of open space in the attic area. Additionally, due to the sheer square footage, they can have HVAC components in the attic area to facilitate the multiple zones necessary to heat/cool the area. This is a dead load that could have adverse effects on the companies operating below if fire involves this area. The interior layout of the structure is similar to Colonial-style homes, but significantly larger. The first floor typically consists of living and dining areas with bedrooms being located on the upper floors. Most rooms will have large vaulted ceilings that will aid in the fire travel. Additionally, the presence of large open foyer area should be expected.”
What is the most common type of construction?
Platform-frame construction
pg.9
“Platform-frame construction is the most common type. A style of wood frame construction in which each story is built on a platform, providing fire stopping at each level”
Wood Frame Construction:
pg.9
“the exterior walls, bearing walls, columns, beams, girders, trusses, arches, floors, and roofs are entirely or partially of wood or other approved combustible material smaller than the material required for Type IV construction”
Ballon Frame Construction:
pg.9
“a style of wood frame construction in which studs are continuous for the full height of a building”
Roof framing generally falls into what 2 types?
Conventional and lightweight
pg.10
“Roof framing for these structures generally falls into two broad types: conventional and lightweight.”
Roof decking will generally be __’ x __’ sheathing.
4 x 8
pg.10
“Roof decking will generally be 4’ x 8’ sheathing. Roof covering will generally be shingle over paper, or a variation thereof. The vast majority will be either asphalt shingles or cedar shakes.”
Dimensional lumber, typically __” x __” or __” x __” boards, may be found in older structures.
1 x 6 or 1 x 8
pg.10
“Dimensional lumber, typically 1” x 6” or 1” x 8” boards, may be found in older structures. Roof covering will generally be shingle over paper, or a variation thereof. The vast majority will be either asphalt shingles or cedar shakes.”
What is the most common style of roof?
peaked or gable roof
pg.10
“The most common style of a roof is the peaked or gable roof, or a variation thereof. The pitch on this type of roof may vary.”
The attic space found when a roof is constructed of trusses is usually non-finished without a full floor, this space is used for what?
storage
pg.10
“The attic space found when a roof is constructed of trusses is usually non-finished without a full floor. This space is commonly used for storage.”
NOTEWORTHY
pg.10
“The attic space found when a roof is constructed of rafters can be finished and floored. This space may be used for storage or as an occupied living area, usually a bedroom.”
Noteworthy
pg.10
“In Cape Cod-style homes, the presence of knee walls should be suspected.”
How can attic access be gained?
- scuttle in hallway outside of bedroom/in closet
- pull-down stairway
- constructed stairway
pg.10/11
“Most attics are used for storage only. Access can be gained by one of three ways: a scuttle located in the hallway outside the bedroom or in the master bedroom closet, a pull-down stairway, or a constructed stairway (found mostly in older homes). Constructed stairways are normally accessed through a doorway and lead to a floored attic. In large homes or in remodeled homes there may be two or more access scuttles to one or more attic areas.”
What size dimensional lumber is generally used for framing in wall construction?
2 x 4
pg.11
“Dimensional lumber, 2” x 4” in size, is generally used for framing in wall construction. Larger sizes may be found where added insulation is desired. Metal studs may occasionally be encountered.”
Interior coverings for walls are generally made of what material and are commonly referred to as what?
gypsum
drywall
pg.11
“Interior coverings for walls are generally made of gypsum, which is commonly referred to as drywall. Lightweight paneling may also be found in some areas. Plaster and metal or wood lath wall construction may be encountered in some older homes.”
What are some common types of exterior sheathing?
Insulated material or wood
pg.11
“Exterior sheathing of many types may be used. Insulated material or wood are common types of sheathing.
Exterior coverings may include, but not limited to, wood, brick, vinyl, aluminum, and asbestos.”
Where will knee walls be found?
in units with lofts and dormers
pg.11
“Knee walls will be found in units with lofts and dormers and will contain voids or may serve as a storage area. Knee walls may contain hidden fire and must be opened early to check for fire extension”
Insulation material used within exterior walls is generally made of what material?what
pg.11
“fiberglass; wood cellulose, rigid plastic foam, or other blown-in material may also be found.”
Floor beams are generally what two types?
wood timbers
steel i-beam
pg.12
“Floor beams are generally of two types: wood timbers or steel I-beam, with engineered I-beams being the norm since the 2000s.”
Engineered I-beams exposed to fire fail within how many minutes?
within 5 minutes
pg.12
“Engineered I-beams exposed to fire fail within five minutes and all attempts need to be made to ensure whether they have been impinged upon. Wood or steel columns, or masonry walls or piers may support them.”
What is a truss design to do?
carry a load over the greatest span using the least amount of material
pg.12
“he truss is designed to carry a load over the greatest span using the least amount of material,”
Floor joist are generally what three types?
dimensional lumber, truss, and plywood I-beams.
pg.12
“Joists are generally of three types: dimensional lumber, truss, and plywood I-beams. Dimensions will range in size depending on the length of the span and the load the truss will carry.”
What are some common types of floor covering’s?
carpet, vinyl, or tile.
pg.12
“Floor covering may vary greatly depending on the builder’s constraints or the buyer’s preference. Common types are carpet, vinyl, or tile.”
Floor decking is genrally what two types?
hardwood boards or plywood sheets.
pg.12
“Floor decking is generally of two types: hardwood boards or plywood sheets.”
Basements:
pg.12
“Single-family dwellings will be set on a concrete slab or will have a crawl space or full basement underneath. Basement entry may be from an exterior and/or interior stairway.
Slab and basement floors are commonly poured concrete. Crawlspace floors will usually be dirt or gravel.
Crawlspace and basement walls are generally built of block or poured concrete. If the basement is finished, wood or metal studs covered by drywall or paneling may be found.
Unfinished basements allow the fire to directly attack the structural components and quickly enter void spaces.”
NOTEWORTHY
“Personnel should be cognizant of the inherent design characteristics associated with triple thickness window construction will lead to elevated heat conditions.”
Casement windows are usually found in structures from what time period?
late 1940s to the late 1960s.
pg.13
“Casement windows create a special hazard. These types of windows are found in construction dating from the late 1940s to the late 1960s. These windows have steel frames set in concrete or masonry. While breaking all the glass in the windows will ventilate the affected area, entrance and exit through the remaining window frame is physically blocked. The window must be opened by lifting a latch and rotating a crank. Removing the frame with force would be very difficult under adverse conditions, and would require the use of heavy forcible entry tools. Firefighters should note these windows in their size-up upon arrival at a structure fire.”
How are casement windows opened?
lifting a latch and rotating a crank.
pg.13
“Casement windows create a special hazard. These types of windows are found in construction dating from the late 1940s to the late 1960s. These windows have steel frames set in concrete or masonry. While breaking all the glass in the windows will ventilate the affected area, entrance and exit through the remaining window frame is physically blocked. The window must be opened by lifting a latch and rotating a crank. Removing the frame with force would be very difficult under adverse conditions, and would require the use of heavy forcible entry tools. Firefighters should note these windows in their size-up upon arrival at a structure fire.”
What can an egress window signify?
Sleeping quarters and the basement.
pg.13
“When making your lap of a structure and egress windows are noted, this may indicate sleeping quarters in the basement.”
The bottom of an egress window should be no more than how many inches off the floor?
44
pg.13
“Some homes are designed with sleeping quarters in the basement. By code there must be two exits for these bedrooms. The second exit may be a larger than normal size window.3 When making your lap of a structure and egress windows are noted, this may indicate sleeping quarters in the basement. The height of the window installation is also important. The bottom of the window opening should be no more than 44 inches off the floor. Outside, an oversized window well is required, Figure 15. It will need to be at least 36 inches wide and extend 36 inches out from the window. The window well height is also limited to 44 inches, as measured from the well floor. If a deep basement forces a deeper window well, most codes will allow a concrete block on the floor of the well to serve as a step, as long as it doesn’t interfere with the window’s opening.”
Egress Window Release
pg.14
“Normally, older style bars and grates were completely set into the exterior wall with no way of opening or removing them. Newer installations should have quick-release devices to allow them to be opened immediately in an emergency. Without compromising security, these devices are operated from inside and allow the bars to be opened for emergency escape. The quick-release devices are designed to be used without a key and are easy to operate. Manufacturers and installers of security bars offer several solutions to residents to protect themselves from crime and yet remain safe during a fire. Some solutions include a handle device or a push button device. Release devices vary by manufacturer.”
How do you perform a soffit attack?
match stream with angle/pitch of roof and flow under the gutter through the soffit
pg.28
“Attic fires can be rapidly knocked down from the exterior upon arrival using the soffit attack, Figure 17. To employ this method, the engine company will match their stream with the angle/pitch of the roof and flow under the gutter and through the soffit.”
What is the preferred point of attack for handlines on basement fires?
Exterior access leading into the basement.
pg.31
“The preferred point of attack for the initial handline is an exterior access point that leads directly into the basement.
A line must be stretched to the front door to contain the fire and protect any occupants and searching firefighters. This line can cover the first floor and protect the interior stairs. Crews should not operate above the basement without the protection of this handline unless there is a confirmed life hazard,”
When advanced fire conditions are encountered and an exterior entrance is not present, the fire should be knocked down from outside the basement. This can be accomplished by:
- Stream through basement window
- Removed the band board
- Extended window cut an additional foot or 2
- Bresnan distributor nozzle(cellar nozzle) from the exterior
pg.32
Applying a fire stream into the basement through a window opening, Figure 20.
Removing the band board on the exterior. In most cases, this stream should be a straight or solid stream. The band board area is where the floor joists for the first floor meet the exterior wall. In the case of a well-involved basement, dark smoke may be pushing from this area. Opening this area in buildings of lightweight construction can normally be accomplished with hand tools or a chainsaw.
Extend a window cut down an additional foot or two, the same band-board access point will be provided. This also creates another access/egress point which may be used later in the fire.
Deploying a Bresnan Distributor Nozzle (may also be known as a cellar nozzle) from the exterior into the structure, placing the nozzle through a hole over the immediate fire area is preferred and most effective. Personnel must be proficient in the deployment and operation of this nozzle if it is used.
NOTEWORTHY
pg.33
“If no exterior basement entrance or opening exists, and all other methods have been considered, an attack via the interior basement stairs may be the only option. Again, if the basement is well involved, every effort should be made to knock down the fire. Under these circumstances, the officer will need to determine if it is safe to attempt going down the basement stairs for a direct attack on the fire. The officer must carefully evaluate the structural stability, life hazard, and the fire and heat conditions at the top of the stairs. Good judgment must be exercised in deciding if it is safe to proceed down the stairs. In this case, a second handline must be in place and ready before fire attack,”
Attic fires tactics:
- gain access and place line at level of fire (MOST EFFECTIVE)
- Hook ceiling direct stream from below into attic
- Wide fog stream into access hole
- cut through the gable end
- distributor/cellar nozzle through hole cut in roof
pg.36
- Gaining access and placing a hose line at the level of the fire into the attic, Figure 22. This option is usually the most effective. An attic ladder needs to get to the top floor early when the officer has suspicion that fire has entered the attic space. When time is critical, consideration should be given to using available means/options of access to the attic until a ladder is available (use of a kitchen counter, dresser, bed, etc.)
- Hooking the ceiling and directing the stream from below into the attic area. This method is not as efficient as the previous method of placing the hose stream at the level of the fire.
- Placing a wide fog stream into an access hole is an effective method when the fire has not self-vented and the roof does not have a ridge vent. (Mass steam production.)
- Access to the attic area by cutting an access through the gable end.
- Distributor/cellar nozzle deployed through a hole cut in the roof while member is independently supported on a ladder or tower.
Figure 22: Gaining access to an attic fire.
In each case there must be an ongoing risk benefit analysis of maintaining an interior attack by both the IC and unit officers as to the progress of the fire and the structural integrity of the roof assembly. The interior officer should request a report from the command officer on the exterior to convey their observations as attack progresses. For example, a report of heavy steam production would indicate that the stream is effective.
Projecting a stream into an attic:
pg.37
“In Figure 23, several truss or joist bays have been exposed in the diagram to provide the firefighter area to project the hose stream into the attic. Projecting straight up into the space is not effective. The hose stream should be placed ahead of the fire to cut off the advance. This line is typically static, the stream is played toward the fire but the line is not normally advanced. The stream angle is often hampered by the 24 inches or less spacing of the roof joist.
Attic fires can be very fast moving. It is important to get a hose line ahead of the fire and into the attic as quickly as possible. Opening the ceiling and attacking the fire at the level of the fire must be accomplished in short order.
If there is active fire in the attic, multiple lines are preferred. Multiple companies will be needed to gain access to the attic area. The location of the access to the attic area must be appropriate to the situation regarding the percentage of fire involvement and structural integrity of the roof.”
