In balloon construction, where can a fire extend?

In balloon construction, a fire can extend from the basement to the attic due to the design of the framing. This type of construction features continuous vertical wall studs that run from the foundation to the roofline, creating a direct channel for flames and hot gases to travel upward. When a fire ignites in the basement, it can easily follow these continuous spaces in the wall structure, spreading rapidly to the attic without significant obstruction.

This characteristic of balloon framing significantly increases the potential for extensive fire spread within the structure. Understanding this aspect is vital for firefighters, as it affects their strategy for controlling and extinguishing the fire, as well as their safety considerations during an operation.