One of the most common framing methods of a single family home in Riverdale Park is balloon framing.

Balloon framing is a method of wood construction that was used primarily in the United States up until the mid-1950s. The balloon wall studs extend from the sill of the first story all the way to the top plate end rafter of the stories above the first story of a home.

This common type of framing was identical to the home that caught fire on the morning of March 27, 2011, at 4711 Oliver Street.  During that incident, the fire department had to do extensive overhaul which included opening up the walls from inside and outside to make certain that the fire had not traveled within the studs.  While that looked like a lot of damage, opening up the walls allows the fire department to make their best effort to check for fire extension, thus allowing for less extensive damage.

As a homeowner you might be wondering how to tell if your house is balloon frame construction? The most common characteristics of balloon frame constructed houses are that the windows are stacked. Meaning that the windows on the second floor are directly above those on the first floor.  You may actually be able to go up into the attic of your home, and drop a stone or coin and it would end up on the basement floor seconds later.

You may add a “firestop” of various components that are used to seal openings and joints and block combustible gases from moving upward through your home like a chimney. But without going into extensive remodeling of the home, the best thing a resident can do is to always practice fire safety!  SMOKE DETECTORS SAVE LIVES.  Smoke detectors should be on every livable level of the house. Create and practice an escape plan with every member of your household. Check the batteries in your smoke detector twice a year.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your local fire department (Riverdale Volunteer Fire Department @ 301-883-7707