What do building codes primarily rate construction types on?

Building codes primarily focus on ensuring that constructions are safe, functional, and sustainable. One of the key aspects of these codes is to assess the structural integrity of buildings. This involves evaluating the strength and stability of the building's materials and design, which ensures that it can withstand various stresses such as loads from occupants, furniture, natural forces (like wind or earthquakes), and other potential hazards.

Understanding structural integrity is crucial in preventing catastrophic failures, protecting lives, and ensuring that buildings can serve their intended purpose over time. While factors like fire rating, exterior covering, and occupancy type are also important considerations within the scope of building safety and usage, they serve to complement the fundamental goal of ensuring that a building is structurally sound and capable of safely supporting the activities within it.