Understanding the Pros and Cons of Balloon Framing in North American Construction History

Balloon Framing

System of framing a building in which the studs are continuous to roof supporting second floor joints

Balloon framing is a type of wood-frame construction that was commonly used in residential and light commercial buildings in North America during the late 1800s and early 1900s.

In balloon framing, long vertical studs run uninterrupted from the foundation all the way up to the roof. The horizontal members, such as the floor joists, are attached directly to the studs. This differs from platform framing, where each floor level has its own set of horizontal members.

The term “balloon framing” refers to the fact that the long studs resemble the elongated shape of a balloon. This framing technique was popular due to its efficiency and speed of construction. It allowed for taller buildings and longer spans between supports, which made it well-suited for commercial buildings and large residences.

However, balloon framing also had some drawbacks. The long studs acted as a chimney, allowing fire to spread quickly throughout the building. Additionally, the lack of firestops and insulation allowed air and moisture to easily move between the walls, causing energy loss and potential structural damage over time.

Today, balloon framing is not commonly used in new construction due to its fire and energy-related concerns. However, many historic homes and buildings still exist with balloon framing, and it is important to recognize and address any potential hazards associated with this construction technique.

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