Type III construction is commonly found in which types of buildings?

Type III construction refers to buildings that are constructed with non-combustible materials for the structural elements—such as steel or concrete—while the interior and exterior walls can be made of combustible materials like wood. This type of construction is often found in commercial strip malls and small apartments, as these buildings typically utilize a mix of materials that create a balance between fire safety and cost-efficiency.

Commercial strip malls and small apartment buildings often utilize Type III construction because it allows for relatively quick and economical building practices while still adhering to safety standards. The exterior walls are usually constructed of fire-resistant materials to help prevent the spread of fire, while the interior components may include a variety of materials that can sustain fire if not appropriately managed.

In contrast, high-rise offices and skyscrapers tend to utilize Type I construction, characterized by entirely non-combustible materials. Single-family homes also lean toward different construction types, such as Type V, which involves more wood-based materials. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for determining how fire behavior might affect different structures during an emergency response scenario.