1. Building Construction for the Fire Service

2. Objectives
Understand why codes and inspections are important during the construction process
To be able to identify different types of residential construction
Become more familiar with construction terminology and types
To be able to understand styles of building systems
Evaluate risk versus safety with each construction type
Determine when to consider defensive attack

3. History of Residential Framing
Framing, in construction, is the fitting together of pieces to give a structure support and shape. Framing materials are usually wood, engineered wood, or structural steel. Building framing is divided into two broad categories, heavy-frame construction (heavy framing) if the vertical supports are few and heavy such as in timber framing, pole building framing, or steel framing or many and smaller called light-frame construction (light framing) including balloon, platform and light-steel framing. Light-frame construction using standardized dimensional lumber has become the dominant construction method in North America.

4. Building Codes
Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) has adopted several codes that pertain to residential building construction.
Maryland Building Performance Standard is the name given to the culmination of codes adopted.
International Building Code (IBC)
International Residential Code (IRC)
International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)
Other codes that have been adopted
National Electrical Code (NFPA 70)
National Fire Sprinkler Code (NPFA 13D)

5. Building Codes
Building codes dictate acceptable building practices to be used in a specific geographic area. They are quite broad and general but specify criteria such as design strength for roof snow-loading, or hurricane wind resistance. Most building codes are enforced by the separate counties, or county designee. The code process ensures all structures are built to resist weather-related threats specific to that area, and gives contractors “instructions” to follow.

6. Building Codes
International Building Code has 35 chapters specifying how structures should be constructed. From height vs. size requirements to elevators, and materials allowed to be used for construction.

7. Building Codes
Each county in Maryland will have an inspection process in place and will require plan submittal, followed up by routine inspections to ensure compliance with the code.
Building plan submittal
Footing inspection
Construction inspection (structural framing)
Mechanical inspection (Electrical, Plumbing, & Mechanical) before walls are closed-up
Sprinkler inspection
May be more – depending on jurisdiction
Final inspection prior to occupancy

8. Building Codes
Code enforcement ensures that the structure is structurally sound and appropriate construction materials and methods are used throughout the process. This will protect the tenant and fire service personnel from unnecessary harm. Codes change routinely and as new materials and methods are proven, they are considered acceptable practice and added to the code.

9. Framing Terms Roofing: Rafter Sheathing Dormer Ridge Dormer Rafter
Hip Rafter
Header
Fascia
Double Header
Tail Rafter
Hip Jack Rafter
Joist
Walls/Flooring:
Stud
Cap Plate
Bracing
Sole Plate
Plywood Subflooring
Firestop
Floor Joist
Sill
Ledger
Carriage
Plywood Sheathing
Foundation:
Wall (concrete or masonry)
Anchor Bolts
Footer

10. Framing Anatomy – Sill plate
Attachment of wood framing to foundation. Usually consists of treated dimensional lumber, but can differ for modular or panelized construction.

11. Framing Anatomy – Wall Framing
Wall studs are the structural members that will extend from the sill plate to the floor deck or roof above. Usually consist of 2” by 6” lumber.
Wall studs

12. Framing Anatomy – Headers
A header is used to span larger areas such as openings including doors, windows, and room entries. May be dimensional lumber or engineered products.

13. Framing Anatomy – Roof System
Roof framing us usually supported by the exterior walls, and can be dimensional (stick built) or a engineered truss system.

14. Platform Framing – 1900s – Present
Wall studs extend from sill plate to
next floor only.
Floor framing sits on top of wall (interior & exterior) framing.
Fire usually will only travel within one floor cavity.

15. Panelized Construction – 1990s – Present
Wall, floor, and roof sections are built in a factory off-site and delivered to job. Even more lightweight than conventional construction.

16. Structural beams used for residential construction
Common lightweight wooden beams widely used:
Laminated Beams – common in floor systems but can
be used as headers or main support beams
2. TGI’s – common in floor systems

17. See the difference?
Dimensional
Lightweight

18. Beams & Trusses

19. Trusses

20. Gusset Plate

21. Truss Problems

22. Other Issues
Penetrations should only be made in pre-punched knockouts or as specified by manufacturer

23. Burn time
Will vary with type of wood, air movement, metal penetration, cut-outs, and structure fire load.
Under “ideal” fire conditions, deep enough charring for release of truss plate is present within 7 minutes after engineered lumber is impinged.

24. Hazard Identification
Assume all newer (1990s through today) construction contains lightweight engineered components until proven otherwise
Only true way to tell is to expose floor/roof assemblies.
Upon observing truss member failure, consider total failure of system (either floor or roof).
Do not rely on adjoining trusses, it is a “system.”

25. Review Identify different types of residential construction
Become more familiar with construction terminology and types
To be able to understand types of building systems
Evaluate risk versus safety with each construction type
Determine when to consider defensive attack

26. Ryan Chapman (301) 748-8198 aclrntk9@gmail.com
QUESTIONS?
Ryan Chapman
(301)