Which statement best describes Type II construction's exterior walls?

• A. They are noncombustible
• B. They are heavy timber framed
• C. They are primarily wood studded
• D. They use tilt-up panels

Answer: (A)

In Type II construction, the exterior walls are noncombustible. This category is defined by using noncombustible materials for the structural frame and the wall assemblies, such as steel, concrete, or masonry, to limit fire spread and maintain integrity during a fire. That makes the statement about exterior walls being noncombustible the best description.

Why the others aren’t the defining idea here: heavy timber framing belongs to a different type, where the structure uses substantial wood elements (Type IV). Exterior walls described as primarily wood studded would imply wood framing in the wall, which isn’t characteristic of Type II’s noncombustible requirement. Tilt-up panels refer to a construction method rather than a material-property classification, so they don’t define Type II walls.