Joisted Masonry vs. Masonry Non-Combustible Buildings

When you are constructing a commercial building, it's important to choose the right type of construction based on your needs. Joisted Masonry, which uses durable masonry walls and wood or steel for floors and roofs, offers cost efficiency and moderate fire resistance. This makes it suitable for a range of buildings like schools and shops.

On the other hand, Masonry Non-Combustible construction uses materials like concrete and metal throughout, providing higher fire resistance and greater durability. This is a very good option if you prioritize safety and long-term savings on maintenance and insurance. Understanding these differences helps you make a strategic decision that aligns with your business needs and improves the safety and longevity of your property.

Key Takeaways

• Joisted Masonry and Masonry Non-Combustible constructions provide fire resistance and structural stability through Joisted Masonry and Masonry Non-Combustible materials.
• Fire resistance ratings for Joisted Masonry buildings typically range from 1 to 6, while those of Masonry Non-Combustible buildings are usually 2 or higher.
• Insurance costs vary depending on construction type, occupancy, protection measures, and risk exposure. Building owners should refer to a commercial line manual for insights into coverage options.

Understanding Joisted Masonry and Masonry Non-Combustible

When exploring construction types, including frame and roof construction, we begin by familiarizing ourselves with Joisted Masonry and Masonry Non-Combustible.

Joisted Masonry Construction or Class 2 buildings, means a construction style where buildings have outer walls made of brick, concrete, or stone and inner supports of wood or steel beams for floors and roofs. This combines the solid protection of masonry with the flexibility of wood or steel, suitable for various buildings like schools, homes, and shops. This combination offers a balance between durability and cost, with a moderate level of fire resistance.

Masonry Non-Combustible construction not only offers superior fire resistance and durability with its use of materials like concrete, brick, and metal throughout the building, but also provides long-term savings on insurance and maintenance. Ideal for commercial and industrial spaces, it enhances safety and sustainability, making it a smart choice for building owners prioritizing fire safety and cost-efficiency. So, while both construction types leverage the strength of masonry for exterior walls, the choice of materials for floors and roofs marks a significant distinction between them.

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Joisted Masonry Construction

Joisted Masonry construction is defined by its use of masonry materials such as:

• adobe
• brick
• concrete
• gypsum block
• hollow concrete block
• stone
• tile

A notable feature of this construction type is the combination of masonry elements with combustible materials for exterior walls of masonry and floors and roofs made of combustible materials like wood. Adding a degree of fire resistance also introduces combustible elements into the structure.

Although masonry elements enhance fire resistance and structural stability, combustible materials can accelerate the spread of fire and heat during an incident, which may lead to building instability. Hence, it is crucial to comprehend the effects of these combustible elements when contemplating Joisted Masonry construction for your commercial property.

Masonry Non-Combustible Construction

On the other hand, Masonry Non-Combustible construction is characterized by using slow-burning or non-combustible materials for floors and roofs supported by load-bearing masonry exterior walls. This makes masonry non-Combustible buildings particularly resilient, offering enhanced protection against fires and ensuring overall safety for structures and inhabitants.

Buildings with exterior walls classified as Type 2 and Type 3 require non-combustible exterior walls constructed of:

• brick
• masonry
• concrete block
• precast panels

This style of construction, marked by its exceptional fire resistance and structural stability, provides a sturdy solution for commercial properties across diverse sectors.

Comparing Joisted Masonry and Masonry Non-Combustible Buildings

Having familiarized ourselves with the primary characteristics of Joisted Masonry and Masonry Non-Combustible constructions, we can now delve into their comparative aspects. One fundamental measure that sets them apart is their fire resistance ratings. Joisted Masonry buildings have fire resistance ratings that range from 1 to 6, with 6 representing the highest level of fire resistance.

Conversely, Masonry Non-Combustible buildings usually have fire resistance ratings of #2 or higher, indicating a potentially higher resistance rating than Joisted Masonry buildings. This difference in fire resistance ratings not only influences the safety measures required for the building but can also significantly impact insurance rates for commercial lines of insurance.

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Fire Resistance Ratings

Joisted Masonry construction generally carries a fire resistance rating of one hour. In contrast, Masonry Non-Combustible construction is typically categorized as non-combustible, signifying a #2 fire rating and typically indicating higher fire resistance. The fire-resistive rating of a building can be influenced by the categorization of building elements and the fire-resistance rating assigned to those elements, such as the thickness of the masonry walls. In this context, fire-resistive construction, including modified fire-resistive methods, plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall safety of the structure.

Furthermore, the elevated fire resistance rating in Masonry Non-Combustible buildings can be attributed to factors such as the thickness of the masonry units (CMU), which are often several inches thick, and the time the concrete remains structurally intact during a fire. Note that the fire resistance rating plays a pivotal role in building safety by determining how long it can resist exposure to fire, thus helping to contain the spread of flames and ensure the safety of occupants.

Structural Stability

Beyond fire resistance, the structural stability of a building is a critical factor that depends heavily on the materials and design elements used in its construction. Joisted Masonry construction contributes to structural stability by utilizing load-bearing exterior walls made of masonry or other non-combustible materials, which provide stability and reduce the likelihood of collapse during a fire.

In contrast, Masonry Non-Combustible construction exhibits the following characteristics:

• Structural stability by not contributing fuel to the fire
• Use of non-combustible materials like concrete
• Resistance to fire for extended periods
• High durability, ensuring building longevity and reducing maintenance needs.

The decision between Joisted Masonry and Masonry Non-Combustible constructions and the use of unprotected steel impacts immediate safety concerns. It affects long-term building resilience and maintenance needs.

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Insurance Implications

The decision between Joisted Masonry and Masonry Non-Combustible Constructions affects safety and stability and carries significant implications for insurance. Insurance costs for Joisted Masonry buildings falling under Construction Class 2 are subject to variability based on factors such as location and size.

On the other hand, Masonry Non-Combustible buildings are classified as Construction Class 4, and the disparity in insurance costs between the two types hinges on factors such as location, building size, and insurance provider. Understanding these implications can help owners make informed decisions when choosing the construction type for their commercial properties.

Insurance Costs

Usually, Masonry Non-Combustible buildings tend to have lower insurance premiums because they use non-combustible materials like masonry, which is less prone to extensive damage during a fire. Buildings with higher fire resistance ratings, signifying their ability to endure fire for an extended duration, are perceived as less risky by insurance companies, leading to reduced insurance premiums for Joisted Masonry and non-combustible constructions.

Nonetheless, it is important to note that insurance costs for Joisted Masonry structures can be influenced by a variety of factors, such as:

• the type of construction
• occupancy of the building
• protection measures implemented
• the building's exposure to diverse risks

As such, it's impossible to generalize the average insurance costs for these types of buildings, as they can vary widely based on several determinants.

Coverage Options

Beyond costs, the construction type of a building can have a significant impact on insurance coverage options. For Joisted Masonry construction, common insurance coverage options include:

• General Liability
• Workers Compensation
• Commercial Auto
• Inland Marine
• Builder's Risk insurance

In contrast, typical insurance coverage options for Masonry Non-Combustible buildings may encompass:

• Property Insurance
• Liability Insurance
• Business Interruption Insurance
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance
• Flood Insurance

Understanding the potential coverage options and any specific insurance exclusions or limitations can help building owners plan effectively and ensure adequate protection for their commercial properties. They can gain valuable insights into various insurance policies and coverages by referring to a commercial lines manual provided by an insurance services office.

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Case Study: Joisted Masonry vs. Masonry Non-Combustible in Practice

To illustrate the practical implications of choosing between Joisted Masonry and Masonry Non-Combustible constructions, let's consider real-world applications of these construction types.

Joisted Masonry buildings are commonly found in:

• Shopping centers
• Office buildings
• Warehouses
• Schools
• High-rise office buildings

In contrast, examples of Masonry Non-Combustible buildings include:

• Big box stores
• Shopping malls
• Newer schools
• Structures predominantly made of metal and concrete
• Utilizing robust masonry materials like brick, concrete blocks, and stone

By examining these real-world applications, we can better understand the practical implications of choosing between Joisted Masonry and Masonry Non-Combustible constructions for commercial properties.

Choosing the Right Construction Type for Your Commercial Property

After examining the technical aspects and consequences of both Joisted Masonry and Masonry Non-Combustible constructions, we can now focus on the factors that may influence the selection of construction type for a commercial property. The use and occupancy of commercial property are influential in the determination of the suitable construction type, with factors such as:

• the building's purpose
• occupant load
• square footage
• height
• proximity to other structures

For instance, Joisted Masonry construction is suitable for businesses that necessitate easily accessible materials and favor a cost-effective solution with rapid wall erection, such as those utilizing stone, bricks, and cinder blocks.

Conversely, Masonry Non-Combustible construction is suitable for businesses that require high fire resistance and durability, typically utilized for commercial properties like warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and storage buildings.

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Location Considerations

The location of a commercial property can significantly influence the choice of construction type. For instance, escalating wildfire seasons and seasonal temperature variations can factor into the selection between Joisted Masonry and Masonry Non-Combustible construction. Furthermore, in areas with high risks of natural disasters such as earthquakes and wildfires, Masonry Non-Combustible buildings are often favored due to their enhanced fire resistance and superior structural integrity.

Thus, while it's difficult to generalize regions where one construction type is more commonly used than the other, the key location considerations encompass the fire-resistance rating, building materials utilized, and the classification of buildings based on exterior walls when making the decision between joisted masonry and Masonry Non-Combustible construction.

Building Use and Occupancy

Aside from location, the intended use and occupancy of a building can greatly impact the decision between Joisted Masonry and Masonry Non-Combustible constructions. Factors such as fire safety requirements and the necessary structural stability for the intended use play a crucial role in this decision.

While Joisted Masonry buildings are commonly utilized for commercial and industrial purposes, Masonry Non-combustible buildings are employed for similar purposes. Still, they are built with slow-burning or non-combustible floor and roof materials. Therefore, understanding the unique load requirements and potential risks associated with the building's intended use can aid in selecting the most suitable construction type.

Summary

Understanding the differences between Joisted Masonry and Masonry Non-Combustible constructions is crucial when choosing the right construction type for a commercial property. These construction types vary significantly in their fire resistance ratings, structural stability, and insurance implications, with Masonry Non-Combustible constructions generally offering higher fire resistance and lower insurance premiums compared to Joisted Masonry constructions.

Choosing between these construction types isn't a one-size-fits-all decision. Still, it requires careful consideration of location, building use and occupancy, and insurance requirements. By understanding these nuances, you can make an informed decision that best suits the unique needs of your commercial property, ensuring optimal safety, cost-effectiveness, and long-term resilience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Joisted Masonry Non-Combustible?

Joisted masonry is not non-combustible, as the floors and roof are combustible materials such as adobe, brick, concrete, gypsum block, hollow concrete block, stone, tile, or similar materials.

What two types of construction are Non-Combustible?

Non-combustible construction comes in two varieties: Type I and Type II. Type I typically includes concrete construction with a high level of fire resistance. At the same time, Type II features steel construction with or without fireproofing and offers lower fire resistance.

What is the difference between Joisted Masonry and frame?

Joisted Masonry is a type of building construction with exterior walls of brick, concrete, concrete block, or stone. In contrast, Frame buildings are composed of combustible materials such as wood for their exterior walls, floors, and roofs.

What is the difference between fire-resistive and Masonry Non-Combustible?

Due to their concrete and steel construction, fire-resistive buildings provide greater fire resistance than Masonry-Non Combustible structures. Fire-resistive structures also better withstand the effects and spread of fires. By contrast, non-combustible buildings have tilt-slab or reinforced masonry walls and a metal roof. Still, they are less resistant to fire than Type I buildings.

How does the construction type of a building impact insurance coverage options?

The construction type of a building directly affects insurance coverage options, as Joisted Masonry construction typically requires general liability, workers' compensation, commercial auto, Inland Marine, and builders' risk insurance. In contrast, Masonry-Non Combustible buildings usually need Property Insurance, Liability Insurance, Business Interruption Insurance, Equipment Breakdown Insurance, and Flood Insurance.

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