Which building construction code includes buildings where the exterior walls are constructed of and supported by metal, asbestos, gypsum, or other non-combustible materials?

Which building construction code includes buildings where the exterior walls are constructed of and supported by metal, asbestos, gypsum, or other non-combustible materials?

• A. Code 3
• B. Code 4
• C. Code 5
• D. Code 2

Answer: (A)

The main concept here is how building construction is classified by the combustibility of the envelope and frame. When the exterior walls are built from and supported by noncombustible materials such as metal, gypsum, or asbestos, the structure falls into the noncombustible construction category. This classification highlights that both the walls and the frame resist burning, which generally reduces fire spread and loss compared with wood or mixed constructions. Other codes describe configurations where combustible elements are present in the walls or frame, or where the envelope is masonry or wood-based, so those do not fit the description as tightly as the noncombustible category.

The main concept here is how building construction is classified by the combustibility of the envelope and frame. When the exterior walls are built from and supported by noncombustible materials such as metal, gypsum, or asbestos, the structure falls into the noncombustible construction category. This classification highlights that both the walls and the frame resist burning, which generally reduces fire spread and loss compared with wood or mixed constructions. Other codes describe configurations where combustible elements are present in the walls or frame, or where the envelope is masonry or wood-based, so those do not fit the description as tightly as the noncombustible category.