What are the 4 types of construction?
Types of Construction
In the construction industry, especially as defined by building codes like the International Building Code (IBC), there are four primary types of construction. These classifications are based on the materials used and the degree of fire resistance of the building components.
- Type I – Fire-Resistive
- Constructed with non-combustible materials such as concrete and steel.
- Offers the highest level of fire resistance.
- Common in high-rise buildings and large commercial structures.
- Type II – Non-Combustible
- Also uses non-combustible materials like metal and concrete, but with a lower level of fire resistance than Type I.
- Often found in newer commercial buildings, warehouses, and schools.
- Type III – Ordinary
- Features non-combustible exterior walls (typically brick or block) and interior structures made of wood or other combustible materials.
- Common in older schools, commercial buildings, and residential apartments.
- Type IV – Heavy Timber
- Consists of large wooden beams and columns (heavy timber) with non-combustible exterior walls.
- Offers some fire resistance due to the size of the wood members.
- Often seen in old factories, warehouses, and some modern "mass timber" buildings.
Some codes also recognize a fifth type (Type V – Wood Frame), where both the exterior and interior structures can be made entirely of wood or other combustible materials.