012 - Construction Types 1-5: IBC Building Classifications

Construction types classify buildings by fire resistance and materials under the IBC. This episode breaks down all five types, from Type I fire-resistive to Type V wood frame.

We walk through each construction type with real-world examples so you can picture where you actually see them. Type I is the fortress: concrete and protected steel in high-rises and hospitals. Type II is the file cabinet: noncombustible steel that can still warp in heat. Type III is the mullet: brick on the outside, wood on the inside. Type IV is heavy timber that chars but stands. And Type V is the wood framing in most American homes.

You'll also learn how construction type controls building height, area, cost, and material selection. We cover the difference between Type A and Type B subtypes, why brick veneer over wood framing is still Type V, how five-over-one podium buildings combine Type I and Type V to save money, and how sprinklers can increase your allowable area by up to 300 percent.

📝 Key topics covered:

Five IBC construction types (I through V) with fire resistance ratings and real-world examples

Type A vs Type B subtypes and how fire protection levels affect allowable building size

How construction type determines height, area, cost, and material selection

Five-over-one podium construction and how it combines Type I and Type V

Sprinkler area increases of up to 300 percent and their limits

Construction type myths that trip up ARE candidates and practicing professionals

⏱️ Chapters:

(0:00) Construction Types and Building Codes

(1:40) What Are Construction Types?

(3:24) How Construction Types Affect Design

(5:52) Type 1 Construction: Fire-Resistive

(8:10) Type 2 Construction: Non-Combustible

(9:07) Type 3 Construction: Ordinary

(10:14) Type 4 Heavy Timber Construction

(11:21) Type 5 Wood Frame Construction

(12:34) Type A vs Type B Construction

(13:42) Real-World Construction Type Examples

(14:52) Construction Type Height and Area Limits

(16:10) Construction Type Myths and Mistakes

(17:40) Construction Types Recap

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• Building Codes 101

• PA 101 (Programming and Analysis)

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• PDD 101 (Project Development and Documentation)

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• PcM 101 (Practice Management)

• PjM 101 (Project Management)

• Building Systems 101

• AIA Contracts 101