What type of construction uses materials that can withstand fire for at least two hours?

The answer pertains to fire-resistive construction, which is designed to have specific fire resistance ratings. Fire-resistive construction utilizes materials that are capable of withstanding fire for a minimum of two hours, thereby significantly reducing the risk of fire spread and allowing for safer evacuation and fire control efforts during emergencies. This type of construction is essential in many commercial and high-rise residential buildings, helping to protect lives and property.

Materials typically used in fire-resistive construction include reinforced concrete and masonry, which can maintain structural integrity under high temperatures for a predetermined amount of time, specifically two hours in this context. This resistance is crucial for building codes and safety standards, as it provides a buffer period for occupants and emergency responders during a fire incident.

In contrast, frame construction is generally less fire-resistant, non-combustible materials, while they may resist fire significantly, do not necessarily meet the two-hour standard required for fire-resistive classification. Class 1 may refer to a classification concerning the level of fire safety, but it does not specifically denote the two-hour fire resistance trait as defined in fire-resistive construction.