Which fire construction type is most commonly used for single-family homes?

Type 5 construction, also known as wood-frame construction, is the most commonly used type for single-family homes. This method employs light-frame wood construction techniques which are cost-effective and versatile, allowing the use of readily available materials. The structural integrity provided by this method is adequate for residential buildings, making it the preferred choice for many builders and homeowners.

Additionally, Type 5 construction allows for ease of architectural flexibility, enabling designs that can accommodate various preferences and needs. Since single-family homes are generally smaller in scale compared to commercial buildings, the lightweight nature of Type 5 also reduces the load demands on foundations and simplifies the overall construction process.

In contrast, other construction types, such as Type 1 (fire-resistive), Type 3 (ordinary), and Type 4 (heavy timber), are more often employed in commercial or industrial applications where enhanced fire resistance or structural strength is required. These types typically involve materials such as concrete or heavy timber, which are not as advantageous for the single-family home context.