Which statement best describes a wood frame construction?

• A. It uses noncombustible exterior walls with steel interior framing
• B. It uses heavy timber exclusively
• C. It features a wood or other combustible structural frame
• D. It is fire-resistive with a high level of structural resistance

Answer: (D)

Wood frame construction uses a wood or other combustible structural frame to carry the building loads. This distinguishes it from systems that use noncombustible framing, like steel or concrete. Heavy timber is a related method, but standard wood frame typically refers to lighter framing with studs, joists, and related members rather than exclusively large timbers. While fire protection can be added—such as gypsum board coverings or rated assemblies—to improve fire resistance, the framing itself remains combustible and is not inherently fire-resistive with high structural resistance. So, the statement that best describes wood frame construction is that it features a wood or other combustible structural frame.