jrosedesign
Member
My understanding is that if a building meets the minimum requirements for it's use group, it can be classified as a less restrictive construction type.
For example, a 10,000 square foot, 1-story, pre-engineered metal building with an automatic sprinkler system could be classified as Type VB construction under business use if it meets the height and area requirements (which it does). It's not forced to be classified as Type II construction because it's a non-combustible steel building.
The definition of Type V construction in IBC 2015 602.5 supports this by stating "any materials permitted by this code" and not saying wood structure. The verbiage in 602.1.1 also supports this (and the commentary adds to the support).
I'd love to hear if anyone has any thoughts on this.
For example, a 10,000 square foot, 1-story, pre-engineered metal building with an automatic sprinkler system could be classified as Type VB construction under business use if it meets the height and area requirements (which it does). It's not forced to be classified as Type II construction because it's a non-combustible steel building.
The definition of Type V construction in IBC 2015 602.5 supports this by stating "any materials permitted by this code" and not saying wood structure. The verbiage in 602.1.1 also supports this (and the commentary adds to the support).
I'd love to hear if anyone has any thoughts on this.