The apparent growth in the use of wood frame systems in multi-story non-residential buildings brings with it an additional amount of risk – particularly during construction. As one news reporter observed, “The disadvantage of wood-framed buildings is obvious: wood burns.” This has been proven recently in several high-profile and spectacular fires, but there are many more lesser-known examples of the impact of using combustible materials.
To keep SFIA members informed about the trends and implications of wood framed construction, it has begun tracking examples that collectively are creating a mosaic of risk that should make insurers, building owners, and fire marshals uncomfortable.