BALLOON FRAME Meaning and
Definition
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A balloon frame is a construction method used in the building industry for residential structures. It refers to a specific type of wood framing where vertical studs extend the full height of the building, from the foundation to the roof. This technique was widely used in North America during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly for two to four-story buildings.
In a balloon frame, long continuous studs run from the foundation sill plate at the base to the top plate at the roof. These studs provide the primary structural support for the entire building. Horizontal joists are then attached to the studs, creating the floor and ceiling frames. Additionally, exterior walls and interior partitions are attached to the studs to form the building's structure.
The main advantage of a balloon frame is its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. By using long studs that run the full height of the building, it eliminates the need for intermediate load-bearing walls, allowing for more open interior spaces. This method also reduces the amount of material and labor required for construction.
However, balloon framing has lost popularity in recent years due to concerns related to fire safety and structural stability. The long continuous studs create a path for fire to spread rapidly through the walls, and there have been instances of collapse during fires. Consequently, modern building codes often require additional fire-resistant measures and structural reinforcements to address these concerns.
Common Misspellings for BALLOON FRAME
- valloon frame
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Etymology of BALLOON FRAME
The term "balloon frame" in architecture originated in the mid-19th century in the United States. It refers to a construction method for wooden buildings, particularly houses. The etymology of this term is not very clear, but there are a few theories.
One theory suggests that the term "balloon frame" comes from the fact that the wooden studs used in this construction method were initially very long and uninterrupted from the foundation to the roof, resembling the long vertical shape of a balloon. These studs were typically made from softwood, which made them easier to cut and work with compared to the traditional heavy timbers used in post-and-beam construction.
Another theory suggests that the term comes from the quick rise of popularity that this construction method enjoyed in the mid-19th century, just like a balloon soars rapidly into the sky.
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