Light Frame Construction is another term for Type 5 construction (Balloon frame). Which option best describes this?

Light Frame Construction is another term for Type 5 construction (Balloon frame). Which option best describes this?

• A. Type 1 (Fire-resistive)
• B. Type 3 (Ordinary)
• C. Type 5 construction (Balloon frame)
• D. Type 2 (Noncombustible)

Answer: (C)

Light frame construction refers to wood framing with little inherent fire resistance. It is classified as Type 5 construction, historically known as balloon framing. In balloon framing, long vertical studs run from the foundation to the roof, creating continuous cavities that can allow fire to travel quickly up the walls and between floors. Because of the combustibility and limited fire-resistive protection, Type 5 is the least fire-resistant among the common construction types. The other types use noncombustible materials or added fire resistance, such as fire-resistive construction, noncombustible construction, and ordinary construction with noncombustible exterior walls and wood interior. So, describing it as Type 5 construction (Balloon frame) best fits light frame construction.

Light frame construction refers to wood framing with little inherent fire resistance. It is classified as Type 5 construction, historically known as balloon framing. In balloon framing, long vertical studs run from the foundation to the roof, creating continuous cavities that can allow fire to travel quickly up the walls and between floors. Because of the combustibility and limited fire-resistive protection, Type 5 is the least fire-resistant among the common construction types. The other types use noncombustible materials or added fire resistance, such as fire-resistive construction, noncombustible construction, and ordinary construction with noncombustible exterior walls and wood interior. So, describing it as Type 5 construction (Balloon frame) best fits light frame construction.