Examples of Type 2 Construction in the USA: Non-Combustible Building Applications

Understanding Type 2 Construction in the United States

Type 2 construction, as defined by the International Building Code (IBC), is a non-combustible classification of construction that includes two subcategories: Type IIA and Type IIB. These construction types utilize non-combustible materials—typically steel, concrete, or masonry—for all major structural components. The difference between the two lies in the fire-resistance ratings: Type IIA includes protected structural elements, while Type IIB consists of unprotected structural members.

In this article, we outline real-world examples of Type 2 construction in the USA, showing how these structures are used across different industries. This insight is essential for understanding how Type 2 buildings are applied in commercial, industrial, educational, and public infrastructure sectors.

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Retail and Commercial Structures Using Type 2 Construction

Big-Box Retail Stores (Type IIB)

Major chains like Walmart, Target, and Home Depot often use Type IIB construction for their stores. These buildings are characterized by:

• Open floor plans
• Steel structural frames
• Concrete slab foundations
• Metal roof and floor decking

They rely on automatic sprinkler systems and smoke detection systems for fire protection rather than passive fire-resistive coatings.

Shopping Malls and Strip Centers (Type IIA)

Larger, multi-tenant shopping complexes often adopt Type IIA construction. These structures incorporate:

• Fire-rated steel columns and beams
• Masonry or concrete block walls
• One-hour fire-resistance ratings for key elements

Fire barriers between tenant spaces and between floors ensure fire containment, which is critical in these high-foot-traffic environments.

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Industrial Facilities Built with Type 2 Methods

Distribution Warehouses (Type IIB)

Facilities like those operated by Amazon, FedEx, or UPS commonly employ Type IIB construction due to its flexibility, cost-efficiency, and quick build time. These buildings typically include:

• Exposed steel beams and joists
• Concrete tilt-up walls
• Open interiors to maximize rack and equipment layout
• High ceilings to accommodate tall storage systems

Although these buildings are not fire-rated, they are fitted with extensive fire sprinkler systems, especially those storing flammable materials.

Food Processing Plants (Type IIA)

Processing facilities that handle combustible or perishable goods may require Type IIA construction. They need:

• Fire-rated assemblies
• Sanitary concrete floors
• Non-combustible roof decks
• Temperature-controlled environments

The added fire resistance in Type IIA construction ensures higher safety standards while maintaining compliance with health and fire codes.

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Educational Buildings Designed with Type 2 Construction

Public School Gymnasiums (Type IIB)

Many school districts in the U.S. construct gymnasiums, cafeterias, and auditoriums using Type IIB construction. These facilities often feature:

• Steel truss roof systems
• Concrete masonry unit (CMU) walls
• High-volume interiors without interior support columns
• Bleacher platforms and mezzanines made from metal framing

Due to the nature of occupancy, these buildings are equipped with alarm systems and sprinklers to provide the necessary safety coverage.

Community Colleges and Technical Institutes (Type IIA)

Campuses across the U.S. incorporate Type IIA buildings for:

• Laboratory spaces
• Lecture halls
• Administrative offices

These buildings require fire-rated corridors, fire-resistive partitions, and sometimes elevator shafts with fire protection. The use of fire-resistant gypsum board, steel studs, and concrete floor systems complies with IBC regulations for educational occupancy groups.

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Healthcare and Institutional Buildings

Outpatient Clinics and Urgent Care Centers (Type IIA)

Most ambulatory healthcare centers are built using Type IIA construction to satisfy stringent life-safety codes. These buildings include:

• Two-hour fire-rated walls separating treatment areas
• Protected steel structures
• Concrete flooring systems
• HVAC plenum systems integrated with smoke controls

In high-risk environments, these features prevent the spread of fire and smoke while enabling safe egress for vulnerable occupants.

Detention and Correctional Facilities (Type IIA)

Correctional facilities require durable, fire-resistant designs. These structures are typically built using:

• Reinforced concrete walls and slabs
• One- to two-hour rated partitions
• Fire-rated doors and secure window systems
• Steel structural framing

The use of Type IIA ensures not only life safety but also long-term structural durability in high-impact environments.

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Public Infrastructure and Civic Buildings

Libraries and Government Centers (Type IIA)

Facilities such as city halls, libraries, and county courthouses are typically constructed using Type IIA methods. Key features include:

• Fire-resistive floor-ceiling assemblies
• Structural steel columns protected with fireproofing spray
• Concrete stair towers and elevator shafts
• Non-combustible cladding materials

These civic buildings often serve as emergency operation centers, necessitating enhanced fire protection and structural integrity.

Fire Stations and Police Departments (Type IIB)

Some first responder facilities are designed with Type IIB construction, particularly in jurisdictions aiming to reduce costs or build quickly. These structures use:

• Exposed metal framing
• Non-rated roof structures
• Sprinklered apparatus bays

Though they lack passive fire resistance, their life-safety systems are highly advanced and continuously monitored.

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Religious and Assembly Spaces Built with Type 2 Construction

Church Halls and Fellowship Spaces (Type IIB)

Modern church buildings and large community centers often adopt Type IIB construction to create large open interiors and multi-purpose spaces. These buildings include:

• Steel roof trusses
• Concrete slab-on-grade flooring
• Minimal interior partitions

Although unprotected in terms of fire rating, these facilities typically rely on sprinkler coverage and alarm systems to meet code.

Convention Centers and Exhibition Halls (Type IIA)

Large public gathering spaces such as exhibition centers and arenas are commonly designed with Type IIA construction, including:

• Fireproofed steel framing
• Concrete concourses
• Smoke evacuation systems
• Wide egress routes

These buildings accommodate thousands of occupants, necessitating enhanced protection and clear compliance with assembly occupancy fire codes.

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Benefits of Using Type 2 Construction

• Cost-Effective Structural Systems: Eliminates heavy use of combustible framing materials.
• Design Flexibility: Allows for long spans, open interiors, and efficient mechanical system integration.
• Faster Build Times: Especially true for Type IIB, which requires less inspection for fireproofing.
• Durability and Maintenance: Non-combustible materials resist pests, moisture, and fire damage better than wood-framed counterparts.
• Code Compliant for a Wide Range of Occupancies: From business use to educational and public assembly, Type 2 structures are versatile.

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Conclusion

Across the United States, Type 2 construction is a foundational method for delivering safe, efficient, and code-compliant buildings in a variety of sectors. Whether in the form of Type IIA fire-protected structures or Type IIB unprotected non-combustible buildings, this classification offers architects, engineers, and developers the flexibility to balance functionality, budget, and life safety.

As demonstrated through commercial centers, educational campuses, industrial warehouses, and government buildings, Type 2 construction remains a reliable and widely adopted construction type for mid-rise structures and high-occupancy environments.

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Consult with local authorities, architects, and engineers to determine the correct construction classification for your specific project.