West Virginia Contractors License Practice Exam

Which type of construction allows for open stairways?

1. Load-bearing construction

2. Non-combustible construction

3. Type III construction

4. Type V construction

The correct answer is: Type III construction

Type III construction, often referred to as "ordinary construction," is characterized by the use of non-combustible materials for the structural frame but allows for interior walls and other elements to be made from combustible materials, typically wood. This construction type permits open stairways because the fire safety regulations allow for certain configurations of openings as long as the building meets specific fire protection standards. Open stairways are usually favored in Type III construction because they provide greater accessibility and connectivity between floors, aligning with the design intentions for many commercial and multi-family residential buildings. However, builders must ensure that such features comply with local building codes and safety regulations, which may require measures such as fire-rated walls or sprinklers in areas near open stairways. While other construction types have their own criteria, Type V construction, which is entirely constructed of combustible materials, does not typically allow for the same level of open designs without imposing additional safety measures. Load-bearing and non-combustible constructions also have their distinct restrictions that may limit or regulate the use of open stairways more stringently than Type III.