Construction Types Flashcards

Study Notes

International Building Code (IBC)

Primarily utilized by architects and builders in the USA.
A model building code developed for standardizing construction practices.
Emphasizes fire prevention across various structures.

Insurance Services Office (ISO)

Provides essential services including data, underwriting, risk management, and legal assistance for insurance firms.
Uses a 6-tier classification model for determining construction types.
Conversion knowledge between IBC and ISO is crucial for accurate structure classification.

Basic Model Breakdown

Construction types are categorized into six types:
- Frame
- Joisted Masonry
- Light Noncombustible
- Masonry Noncombustible
- Modified Fire Resistive
- Fire Resistive

IBC to ISO Conversion Table

IBC and ISO are key sources for construction type classifications; IBC is used by architects while ISO is standard for insurance.
Misclassification risk exists if IBC designs are improperly submitted as ISO types.
Protected classification indicates structures with fire-rated coatings offering at least 1-hour fire resistance.
Unprotected classification means structural members without added fire resistance.
Sprinkled denotes full installation of fire sprinkler systems; unsprinkled signifies absence of such protection.

Building Classification

Determined by two main factors:
- Building elements
- Fire resistance capabilities

Building Elements

Key components include:
- Structural frame
- Exterior and interior bearing walls
- Nonbearing walls and partitions
- Floor and roof constructions, along with supporting beams and joists

Fire-Resistance Rating

Represents the time span a passive fire protection system can endure in a standard fire test.
Ratings can vary from 0 hours to 2 hours, indicating the structure’s fire endurance.

Minimum Rule

Construction strength correlates directly with the weakest structural element.
Example: A masonry building with a weak, unprotected wood roof is classified as Joisted Masonry; a metal deck roof raises the classification to Masonry Noncombustible.

What to Ask?

Key questions to establish ISO class should address details about:
- Structural frame
- Bearing wall specifications (interior and exterior)
- Floor construction
- Roof construction
- Fire ratings of materials used

Frame (ISO Class I, IBC Type V)

Defined as buildings with combustible external walls, floors, and roofs.
Typically features wood or other combustible materials in construction.

Frame Continued

Masonry veneer and metal-clad exteriors do not alter the frame classification:
- Masonry veneer serves aesthetic rather than structural purposes.
- Metal-clad may suggest sturdiness but is classified as frame if supported by combustible materials.
Additional factors can lead to frame classification, such as:
- Metal walls or floors with combustible sheathing
- Combustible insulation attached to metal roofs or floors.

Description

Test your knowledge of important construction terms and codes with these flashcards. Focus on critical concepts like the International Building Code (IBC) and the role of the Insurance Services Office (ISO) in the industry. Perfect for architects, builders, and students in construction management.