Describe Type V (wood frame) construction and a common hazard.

• A. Exterior noncombustible walls with combustible interior framing.
• B. Wood-framed construction; rapid fire growth and potential for hidden void spaces and collapse.
• C. Noncombustible materials with fire resistance.
• D. Heavy timber exterior.

Answer: (B)

Type V construction is wood-frame construction, where the structural elements are primarily wood and other combustibles. This makes fires spread quickly through the framing and through concealed spaces like wall cavities, attics, and floor/ceiling assemblies. A key hazard is the presence of hidden void spaces that can hide fire and heat, allowing it to travel unseen, combined with the lightweight nature of the wood members that can fail rapidly and lead to collapse. This combination—the combustible framing and the potential for rapid fire growth and sudden structural failure—defines the danger of Type V wood-frame buildings.