Florida Fire State Practice Exam

In which type of building construction do wooden elements run from top to bottom?

1. Platform frame

2. Balloon frame

3. Timber frame

4. Steel frame

The correct answer is: Balloon frame

Balloon frame construction is characterized by its method of framing, where long, continuous wooden elements run vertically from the foundation to the roof, with floors being supported by these vertical studs. This technique allows for a lighter structure and can effectively accommodate the building's height without requiring intermediate supports. The vertical members, or studs, are used for both the walls and the floors, which is distinct from platform framing where each floor is built separately and does not rely on the vertical elements extending through multiple levels in the same way. The advantages of balloon framing include a reduced amount of lumber needed for horizontal framing and improved integration of insulation and fire blocking due to the uninterrupted wall cavities. This framing technique was more common in historical and some residential constructions prior to the widespread adoption of platform framing. In contrast, platform framing involves constructing each floor separately, which means the vertical elements do not run continually from the base to the top. Timber frame construction typically uses larger timber members but may not have the same continuous vertical elements as balloon framing. Steel frame construction employs steel members instead of wood, further distinguishing it from wood-based frameworks.