What type of construction were older taxpayers often built with?

Older taxpayers, often found in urban areas, were commonly constructed using Type 3 (Ordinary) construction. This construction type typically features a structural framework that consists of non-combustible materials, but its walls and roofs may be built from combustible materials, such as wood.

Type 3 construction was prevalent in older buildings because it strikes a balance between lower construction costs and reasonable fire safety. The wooden components in the structure, particularly in the roof and floors, can present increased fire hazards compared to more modern, fire-resistive types. This emphasizes the importance of fire prevention and suppression strategies in mitigating risks associated with ordinary construction when older buildings are involved.

Understanding that these taxpayer buildings typically exhibited a mix of materials helps fire officers strategize firefighting tactics, considering that the presence of wood can contribute to fire spread and intensity during an incident.