012 - Construction Types 1-5: IBC Building Classifications

Construction types are one of the most fundamental building code concepts you need to understand. This episode breaks down all five IBC construction types, from Type I fire-resistive all the way to Type V wood-frame.

We cover how construction types affect building height, area, cost, and material selection. You'll learn the difference between A and B subtypes, why brick veneer doesn't make a building Type III, and how the "five-over-one" podium building works.

📝 Key topics covered:

• All five IBC construction types (I through V) with real-world examples

• How construction type determines allowable height, area, and materials

• The A vs B subtype distinction and what it means for fire protection

• The "five-over-one" podium building trend explained

• Common myths that trip up ARE candidates

⏱️ Chapters:

(0:00) Introduction

(1:40) What are Construction Types?

(3:24) How They Affect Design

(5:46) Tour of Five Construction Types

(5:59) Type I: Fire-Resistive

(8:15) Type II: Non-Combustible

(9:13) Type III: Ordinary

(10:20) Type IV: Heavy Timber

(11:27) Type V: Wood-Frame

(12:40) Understanding A and B Subtypes

(13:49) Real-World Applications

(15:00) Construction Types and Height/Area

(16:17) Common Exam Traps

(17:48) Conclusion

(19:48) Wrap Up

📖 Read the full blog post

📝 Download the FREE Construction Types study notes

🎯 Get access to all ARE study materials with the ARE 101 Membership

🎯 Join our 10-week ARE Boot Camp

📚 Individual ARE Exam Courses:

• Building Codes 101

• PA 101 (Programming and Analysis)

• PPD 101 (Project Planning and Design)

• PDD 101 (Construction Documents and Specs)

• CE 101 (Construction and Evaluation)

• CDT 101 (Construction Documents Technologist)

• CCCA 101 (Construction Contract Administration)

• PcM 101 (Practice Management)

• PjM 101 (Project Management)

• Mechanical Systems 101

• AIA Contracts 101