All buildings are categorized into five different types of building. Building construction in Oregon is no exception. Here are the five types of buildings and a brief description of each.
Type 1—Fire-Resistive
These structures are made of concrete and protected steel. Protected steel is coated with a fire-resistant mixture of concrete. Type 1 buildings are usually high-rise buildings. Type 1 building construction in Oregon cities must meet certain height criteria to be considered fire resistive.
Type 2—Non-combustible
The walls and roofs of type 2 buildings are made with non-combustible materials. These buildings are generally new or remodeled commercial structures. Walls are usually reinforced masonry and roofs have a metal structure. Type 2 construction is what is typically seen in large commercial buildings like strip malls and big box buildings.
Type 3—Ordinary
Type 3 buildings have non-combustible walls and a wooden roof. Roofs of older buildings may be made of unreinforced masonry but newer models will have a lightweight roof supported by reinforced walls.
Type 4—Heavy Timber
Large-sized lumber is used for structure and interior construction on a type 4 building. These are usually older buildings, commonly built before the 1960s.
Type 5—Wood-framed
Many modern homes are type 5 constructions. Most commonly, type 5 buildings are made of wood. If the walls are wood, usually the roof is, as well. Rooftops are usually constructed of asphalt shingles or ceramic tiles.
For more information about buildings and construction in Oregon, visit the Five Rivers Construction website.
