FireNuggets , Inc November 2016
used on each type of construction assists in estimating how much time you may have before structural failure . Each type of construction has a “ typical ” set of materials used for the walls , jambs and doors , this information along with occupancy type , can dictate which tools may be needed to force entry or egress and assist with the interior search .
Construction Era : Knowledge of building eras can indicate the building materials , special hazards , fire behavior , floor layout and structural integrity under fire conditions . Structures built prior to the “ new ” national wood standard ( 1924 ) used full dimensional lumber floor joists and tongue and groove ( T & G ) floor decking . These materials held up considerably longer under fire conditions compared with engineered wood products of the mid 1980s .
1880s-1930s : This era is typified by balloon frame type V construction . Balloon frame construction is easily recognizable due to narrow windows in line with windows on the floor above ( Pic , right : hereandthere . org ). In colder climates the chimney is in the middle of the house / roof . There are no fire blocks within the walls , which leads to rapid fire extension from basement to attic or vise versa . The attic is commonly converted into living space . VES should be considered to upper floors due to narrow and possibly hard to find access . When searching , expect narrow windows , doors and stairs .
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