In Durham, North Carolina, Laurel Street Residential planned the build of two Type III multifamily units that stood six stories high. Ian Shelton, a project manager for Neighboring Concepts, partnered with Progress Carolina and UFP Construction to frame the structure with ProWood FR fire-retardant wall assemblies. Ian spoke to the goals that were set for this project:
“The 300 East Main affordable housing project is a collaborative effort between the development team and Durham County to provide affordable living in the heart of downtown Durham... In addition to residential units, the ground floor of the housing component includes indoor and outdoor amenities as well as provisions for a future childcare space intended to serve the local community…”
Why ProWood FR?
ProWood FR fire-retardant treated products for Type III construction projects are an affordable option compared to other noncombustible materials, benefiting the economy in the area. Ian Shelton noted, “Type III construction allowed us to maximize the number of housing units on a tight urban site while meeting the projects budget constraints [and it] met the non-combustibility requirements of the building code for Type III construction while providing a more cost-effective alternative to metal stud framing.”
ProWood FR products are highly acclaimed in the industry, having received several awards, including Building Design + Construction Top Products. These reliable products are widely available and backed by a 50-year warranty. As detailed in the ICC Evaluation Services, Inc. ESR-4373, ProWood FR products meet all major model building code requirements. Additionally, they are UL-Classified with an FR-S Rating, ensuring flame spread and smoke development values of 25 or less.
ProWood FR Product Offering
BACKER BLOCK
These pre-cut blocks are used to support the installation of interior cabinets, vanities, shelving, grab rails, trim and more. And because they’re made from ProWood FR pressure-treated dimensional lumber, the holding strength is much greater than plywood.
DIMENSIONAL LUMBER and SHEATHING
ProWood FR fire-retardant-treated wood has a Class A Flame Spread Index of 25 or less, the best rating for fire-retardant building products. Flame spread rating was achieved through the ASTM E84 30-minute test. ProWood FR pressure-treated lumber and plywood have also been tested by independent accredited laboratories, following industry standards ASTM D5564 and ASTM D5516, to develop strength design factors for various use conditions.
1-HOUR WALL PANEL
ASTM E119 Tested, the 1-hour wall assembly is load bearing rated from one side (interior side only). For details refer to ESR Report 4373.
2-HOUR WALL PANEL
The code-compliant ProWood FR V343 2-hour wall assembly is manufactured under the independent third-party inspection of Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL), the largest and oldest independent testing laboratory in the United States. This wall assembly is fully code-compliant and meets the highest available standard, carrying UL’s FR-S designation.
The use of ProWood FR fire-retardant treated products in the construction of the two 6-story multifamily units in Durham, North Carolina, has proven to be a strategic and beneficial choice for Laurel Street Residential and its partners. By opting for ProWood FR, the project successfully met the stringent fire safety requirements while remaining within budget constraints, thereby maximizing the number of affordable housing units in a densely populated urban area. The collaboration between the project team and Durham County has resulted in a housing initiative that not only addresses the need for affordable living spaces but also provides valuable community amenities, ensuring a positive and lasting impact on downtown Durham.
Related Stories
Student Housing | Apr 23, 2024
Student Quarters selected to manage 502-bed student housing community
Student Quarters, a leading student housing owner and management company, announces the newest addition to its portfolio: The Armory Sam Houston Apartments.
MFPRO+ News | Apr 18, 2024
Marquette Companies forms alliance with Orion Residential Advisors
Marquette Companies, a national leader in multifamily development, investment, and management, announces its strategic alliance with Deerfield, Ill.-based Orion Residential Advisors, an integrated multifamily investment and operating firm active in multiple markets nationwide.
Student Housing | Apr 17, 2024
Student housing partnership gives residents free mental health support
Text-based mental health support app Counslr has partnered with Aptitude Development to provide free mental health support to residents of student housing locations.
MFPRO+ News | Apr 15, 2024
Two multifamily management firms merge together
MEB Management Services, a Phoenix-based multifamily management company, and Weller Management, a third-party property management and consulting company, officially merged to become Bryten Real Estate Partners—creating a nationally recognized management company.
MFPRO+ News | Apr 12, 2024
Legal cannabis has cities grappling with odor complaints
Relaxed pot laws have led to a backlash of complaints linked to the odor emitted from smoking and vaping. To date, 24 states have legalized or decriminalized marijuana and several others have made it available for medicinal use.
Multifamily Housing | Apr 12, 2024
Habitat starts leasing Cassidy on Canal, a new luxury rental high-rise in Chicago
New 33-story Class A rental tower, designed by SCB, will offer 343 rental units.
MFPRO+ News | Apr 12, 2024
Greystar becomes top apartment owner, manager, and developer in 2024
One firm set records for this year’s National Multifamily Housing Council Top 50 roundup of multifamily firms. Greystar now sits at number one in the NMHC’s lists for top apartment owner, manager, and developer in 2024.
Student Housing | Apr 12, 2024
Construction begins on Auburn University’s new first-year residence hall
The new first-year residence hall along Auburn University's Haley Concourse.
MFPRO+ News | Apr 10, 2024
5 key design trends shaping tomorrow’s rental apartments
The multifamily landscape is ever-evolving as changing demographics, health concerns, and work patterns shape what tenants are looking for in their next home.